What Sells: Autograph Collectibles
Autographs
An autograph can substantially boost the value of an item, especially that of a
CD, photograph, book or baseball signed by someone considered to be a household
name. Unfortunately, many of the signed items offered online are forgeries. It’s
essential to provide proof of authenticity in your listing or the item will not
sell.
What Sells
These autographed items are frequently sold online:
- Album and CD covers, concert programs, and other entertainment memorabilia
- Baseballs, jerseys, trading cards and other sports memorabilia
- Letters, checks and legal documents
- Magazine covers and newspaper articles
- Photographs
Authentication
PSA/DNA is one of the best-known authentication and grading services for sports
memorabilia. Fees vary depending on the item and signature in question. Once an
item is deemed genuine, the item is marked with invisible DNA-laced ink — naked to
the eye but verifiable through a specially calibrated infrared laser. In addition,
a Certificate or Letter of Authenticity (LOA) that ties the service with the genuine
autograph is provided. With the unique alphanumeric number assigned by PSA/DNA,
any interested party can verify authenticity online even as items change hands over
time. Visit the website at http://www.psadna.com/.
Autograph World maintains an online authentication guide with pictures of thousands
of autographs. This guide can help you eliminate obvious forgeries, but should not
be used as a substitute for having a professional review a signature. Visit the
website at http://www.autographworld.com/sigs/about.asp.
If you want to have an autograph authenticated by a professional (or would like
to learn how to authenticate autographs yourself), visit the Universal Autograph
Collectors Club website at http://www.uacc.org/.
Condition
Note the following in your listing:
- Fading
- Smudged or smeared ink
- Water damage and stains
- Damage to the signed item (tears, creases, holes, yellowed paper, etc.)
Key Details
Include these details in your listing:
- Name of the person who autographed the item (last name alone may be sufficient)
- Description of the signed item (football, 8x10 photo, record album, etc.) — omit this
if it’s just a piece of paper
- The word “autograph”
- Certificate of Authenticity (if included)
- Framed (if the item is framed)
- Year the item was signed (if known)
Storage and Shipment
Autographed items should be stored in a well-ventilated room, away from children,
pets, smoke and cooking odors. Never place an item in direct sunlight; cover it
with a sheet or better yet, keep the windows covered. Don’t place an item next to
heating vents or air conditioners, either, since temperature/humidity changes can
cause damage.
If an item includes a case, place the item in the case, pack the case in bubble
wrap and place it into a bed of packing peanuts for shipment.
The size and delicacy of an autographed item can require special shipping. It’s
best to determine the shipping method in advance and to include an estimate of the
total shipping cost in your listing.
