Autograph collecting terminology and common sense are vital for hobbyist in order to make informed purchase decisions.Question: What advantages does autograph collecting offer as compared to other collectibles?
Answer: Autographs have been called “frozen moments in time.” Autograph collectors are curators of history. The most personal item that one person can give is his or her signature. Anything that can be signed can be considered collectible…letters, documents, photographs, books, memorabilia, etc. Few objects give a collector opportunity to own a unique or one-of-a-kind item that is actually part of someone who is known by millions of people. That is main reason why autograph collecting has become one of fastest growing hobbies in recent years.
Question: What guidelines should I consider when purchasing autographs?
Answer: Buy autographs that capture your interest. Don’t purchase items presented as “investments” or sold through pressure. Learn as much as possible language of autograph collecting. The more you study, easier it will be for you to determine what items are authentic and which items to purchase. Use common sense when buying a signed piece. If price is too good to be true, it probably is. Purchasing from reputable dealers, who will help you avoid risks and problems, is paramount. Most dealers offer a certificate of authenticity, which is only as good as reputation of dealer. If dealer cannot tell you when and where item was signed or how it was obtained, go elsewhere.