The place of counterfeits in regimes of value: An anthropological approach

This article argues that, in order fully to understand the effect of reprod uction copies on the value of 'original' objects, we must acknowledge the p rior importance of myths of origins ascribed to them. By examining four dis tinct 'regimes of value' in which illegally produced copies of rare and col lectable phonograph records are produced and distributed, I demonstrate tha t an analysis of myths of origin shows that prestige objects are imbued wit h one of two distinct properties, which I call here 'charisma' and 'sacredn ess'. Those understood to be imbued with charisma become devalued following the appearance of copies or reproductions; those considered sacred, howeve r, resist devaluation in similar circumstances.