Caro's Signing History

Robert Caro has been a reliable but not prolific signer throughout his career. His appearances have been concentrated around book launches, museum lectures (the New-York Historical Society has been a frequent venue), and occasional bookstore signings in New York. Unlike many commercial authors, Caro does not do extensive national tours — his signing events are events in themselves, drawing large audiences who line up for hours.

Signature Characteristics

Caro signs with a confident, somewhat angular hand — “Robert A. Caro” with the A clearly articulated. He frequently adds the date below his signature. Inscriptions are warm and personal when given — Caro is known for spending time with each person in a signing line, which limits the number of books he can sign per event but increases the quality of each interaction.

Key Signing Eras

• 1970s: Very few signed copies of The Power Broker from 1974 events — the book was not yet the cult object it would become, and Caro was not yet a celebrity.
• 1980s–1990s: More regular appearances with the LBJ volumes. The publishing schedule (roughly a decade between volumes) means each launch was a major event.
• 2000s–2010s: Caro’s fame grew exponentially as The Power Broker achieved cult status. Master of the Senate and The Passage of Power launches drew enormous crowds.
• 2019: Working launch brought Caro to many bookstores; signed copies are the most readily available in his bibliography.

Authentication Notes

Caro forgeries are uncommon but not unknown, particularly for The Power Broker, where the financial incentive exists. The consistency of his signature makes comparison relatively straightforward. Third-party authentication (PSA, JSA) adds value to high-dollar Power Broker copies.