Are you a new sports autograph collector? Then you need to read this. The FBI estimates that over 90 percent of all sports autographs are fake. Don't fall in the same trap that ensnared thousands of fans by knowing what to watch out for when buying these coveted signatures. Here are pointers to get you started. Buy and study reliable publications. Magazines about collecting sports autographs can provide you with a lot of information about quality dealers, trade shows you can go to, and even trusted website vendors you can buy from. Study the pictures of authentic items carefully - familiarize yourself with authentic items long enough, and you will soon be able to instantly spot fake sports autographs just by looking at them. Too cheap? It's probably fake. Face it - no authentic, highly-coveted sports autograph will ever sell at only $20. If the autograph's price is too low, it is probably fake - even if they come with convincing certificates of authenticity (which can be easily printed using fancy laser printers these days). If the seller offers to give you a forensic document, check twice - the document should be at least three pages long and should detail the results of several tests. Do not fall for sales pitches especially if you are buying from the internet or from an individual who does not conduct business in a real store. You will find it very hard to return the item when you find out that it's forged. Join professional organizations. If you want to seriously pursue collecting sports autographs, then join legitimate organizations such as the Universal Autograph Collectors Club. Share information with other members and educate yourself in the process. By becoming a member of such clubs, you can have access to memorabilia companies that sell 100% authentic autographs of the athletes under contract with them. |
