Autograph Collecting
For centuries, notables and notorious figures have been asked for their autograph as a way to remember or record that moment in time when a fan or collector had the chance to meet them. The signature represents a ?piece of that person.' We sign credit card slips, we sign our high school yearbooks and we have our wedding reception guest book signed. ?Collecting' a signature is part of everyday life. It is no surprise that the hobby of collecting and treasuring celebrity autographs has become so large and internationally recognized. If one were to ask any random person on the street, in the classroom, at work or at the mall, ?what would you do if you were in the presence of a famous person right now?' the answer would almost always be the same. ?I would shake his or her hand, take a picture, if I had my camera, or get an autograph.'
Autographs are displayed proudly in the walls of corporate record label offices, celebrity homes, museums, galleries and private collections worldwide. Restaurants gather signatures with pride from famous patrons who have walked their halls and dined at their establishments. An authentic rare autograph, to an autograph collector, is just as worthy of a space on the mantle as a choice painting or trophy. It represents a moment when a particular notable figure, celebrity or musician took the time to recognize a fan and add his/her personal signature to an item. Aside from original art, autographs can be considered one of the most unique collectibles. Coins, stamps, currency or trading cards are all produced in factories, usually in large quantities. Even rare coins, stamps or trading cards are very rarely unique to each piece. Autographs are not produced in a warehouse; each and every authentic autograph is truly one of a kind. It's the hand touch from a celebrity directly to the actual object on which the signature rests, that makes signature collecting such a unique hobby.
Not everyone has the chance to meet celebrities or, when given the chance, may not be prepared with a choice item to get signed. Whether you are looking to add to your collection, purchase an autograph of your favorite boxer or celebrity, or simply buy a fantastic gift, Substance Collectables Autographs, Inc. makes the search for a treasured autograph on a premium item a satisfying reality.
Autograph collecting can be a very enjoyable and fulfilling hobby. However, there are a number of pitfalls to be avoided when collecting through internet auctions such as ebay. Here is some advice and collecting tips that you may find useful.
1. Whenever possible, try to buy from a Reputable Dealer. This will ensure that you are buying from someone with many years experience and expertise in autographs and who also has agreed to be bound by the trading ethics of this organisation. It will also allow you some redress if you feel that you have been dealt with improperly or unfairly.
2. Do not buy from ebay sellers without feedback or who have Private ID or private bidder information.
3. Remember, a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) is only as valid as the reputation and experience of the dealer by whom it is issued.
4. Be extremely careful when buying through an internet auction. Remember the maxim, "If it looks too good to be true, then it probably is!" Everyone is aware of the value of autographs now and professional dealers are always on the lookout for items to add to their stock. Consequently, there are very few 'bargains' to be had, either for collectors or dealers!
5. If you are an inexperienced collector, do not buy from sources such as ebay. Rather pay a little more and visit the recognised experts
6.Some autograph websites and internet auction sites that we have seen appear to have an inordinate amount of what we consider 'very difficult' ('almost impossible') signed items in their stock. Be suspicious of multi-signed photographs or posters of the very latest 'blockbuster' releases as it would be highly unlikely that these are genuine.
