"Autograph Authentication is a Critical Issue in the Autograph Collecting Hobby"

Forgeries have always been a concern, but have especially increased during the explosion of interest in the hobby in the last two decades.

Of course, the best way to know if an autograph is genuine is to see it signed yourself! While that is an exciting encounter, it is not always possible. Reputable dealers and manufacturers go to great lengths to insure authenticity in their products.

You want to look for items that have tamper-proof holograms with serial numbers that match the item's certificate of authenticity. You can use these numbers to easily verify the item matches the serial number and description.

In addition, a certificate or letter of authenticity certificate of authenticity that is guaranteed for life with a written money-back guarantee is becoming essential for collectors today.

Even the most reputable dealers can make a mistake, and the ones you want to do business with will stand by their product and authenticity estimation with this guarantee.

Do you have autographs that you would like to have authenticated? Below is information on the hobby's leading sports and celebrity autograph authentication services.

PSA/DNA has created a four-level security system used to authenticate and protect the integrity of authentic signed sports autographs, celebrity, and music autographs.

According to the PSA/DNA website, they have authenticated and issued psa grading for the following historical pieces and famous autographs, among others:

Super Bowl Game-Used Footballs since 1999

Shoeless Joe Jackson's Black Betsy Bat

Mark McGwire's 1998 70th Home Run Baseball

Sammy Sosa's 1998 66th Home Run Baseball

Mickey Mantle's 500th Home Run Baseball

Hank Aaron's Career 715th Home Run Baseball

1923 Babe Ruth "1st Home Run in Yankee Stadium" Bat

In addition to PSA/DNA, James Spence Authentication is another well known and trusted resource for submitting items for authentication. James Spence Authentication will certify your item and mark it with a tamper-proof sticker and corresponding letter of authenticity that can be easily referenced online via their website.

Keep in mind that authentication is a major factor in what an autograph is worth. Even if you are collecting for fun, it's important to be sure you have authentic signatures (and not autopens!) that can be treasured and passed down to friends or loved ones.

Autograph Value Autograph value is based on many factors. Scarcity, demand, condition of the item, and authentication are all important characteristics.

Autograph Certificate of Authenticity An autograph certificate of authenticity (COA) is used to insure the authenticity of a signed item to be a genuine signature and enhance the value of what the autograph is worth.

Fake autographs Forgeries have been around for a long time. Autograph values hinge greatly on the authentication of the signature.

Autopen An autopen is a machine that is used to manufacture an almost exact copy of a person's signature.

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