But many collectors say that Joe has disappointed them because the figures are not realistic enough.

"I had been collecting for many years," said a collector who insisted on anonymity.

The market may be heating up, but collectors say its takes knowledge, luck and timing to make money.

But while buying, the 49-year-old collector said, "I really didn't have time to read history.

"That chair has the most graceful sweep of back and arms I have ever seen," the collector says.

The collector bought it in 1991, but won't say for how much.

"She is militant," said one collector, who like most people in the room did not want his name used.

"Her prices make the decision to buy much harder," the collector said.

"One could but try," said the collector, and Jane began to feel for the pin.

At the ticket barrier the collector took his shoulder and said: "You're the man in the photo, aren't you?"