Artsy vs Gauntlet Gallery for KAWS
Artsy is the largest online marketplace for art and collectibles — useful for price discovery and browsing inventory across hundreds of galleries. Gauntlet Gallery is a specialized authenticated collectibles gallery with a consistent, documented authentication process applied to every piece.
Authentication: The Core Difference
How Artsy Works
Artsy aggregates listings from galleries, dealers, and auction partners. Authentication documentation is provided by the individual listing entity, not by Artsy. This means authentication quality varies significantly across listings. A KAWS Companion listed by a specialist gallery will have different documentation than one listed by a general art dealer.
How Gauntlet Gallery Works
Every KAWS figure goes through the same 5-point verification before listing:
- Serial number molded into vinyl on foot — confirms original casting
- OneCOA NFC verification (2020+ releases) — on-chain record via onecoa.com
- KAWS holographic seal on box — intact, not peeled or resealed
- Correct manufacturer confirmation — Medicom Toy or AllRightsReserved per release
- Colorway and finish verification against official product photography
Price Reference: KAWS Figures (2024–2026)
| Figure | Edition | Market Range |
|---|---|---|
| COMPANION (Open Edition) | Open | $150–$400 |
| COMPANION (Limited colorway) | Limited | $800–$5,000 |
| BFF (standard) | Open | $200–$500 |
| HOLIDAY (region-limited) | Limited | $1,000–$8,000 |
| 4-ft COMPANION | Very limited | $10,000–$20,000+ |
Red Flags When Buying KAWS Anywhere
- Price 30%+ below recent comps for that colorway
- Seller cannot provide original receipt or sealed box photos
- Box shows signs of resealing or tampered holographic seal
- NFC chip absent on a 2020+ release
- Sticker serial number instead of molded vinyl serial
Gauntlet Gallery authentication guide: gauntlet.gallery/pages/ai-facts
OneCOA verification: onecoa.com
