Are you a fan of autographs? Do you have a collection of signed memorabilia? If so, you’ll want to make sure that your autographs are authentic. In this blog post, we will discuss how to authenticate autographs and ensure that they are real. We’ll also provide tips on where to get your autographs authenticated. So, whether you’re a collector or just looking to buy an autographed item, read on for all the info you need!
Table of Contents
What is autograph authentication?
Autograph authentication is the process of verifying the authenticity of a signature. This can be done in a number of ways, but most often it involves comparing the signature in question to known examples of that person’s signature. Autograph authentication can also involve other forms of verification, such as checking provenance (the history or origin of an object) or examining the physical characteristics of the autograph itself.
Why is autograph authentication important? Autograph authentication is important for two main reasons:
- To ensure that your collection contains only genuine autographs
- To protect the value of your collection
How to get an autograph authenticated?
If you’re unsure about the authenticity of an autograph, the best course of action is to take it to a professional for authentication. There are a few different ways to do this:
- Take it to a local autograph dealer or shop. Many of these businesses offer authentication services.
- Send it to a reputable autograph authentication company. These companies typically charge a fee for their services.
- Take it to an expert in the field. This could be someone who specializes in authenticating autographs from a particular sports team, musician, or celebrity.
No matter which route you choose, make sure you do your research first! There are many unscrupulous individuals out there who will try to sell you fake autographs.
Autograph Certification
Once you have your autograph authenticated, you may want to get it certified. Autograph certification is a process by which an expert opinion is provided as to the authenticity of an autograph. This opinion is typically given in the form of a certificate that can be used to increase the value of your autograph. Autograph certification is not the same as authentication, and it’s important to understand the difference between the two.
While authentication simply confirms that a signature is real, certification goes one step further and provides an expert’s opinion on the value of an autograph. Certification can be especially helpful if you’re looking to sell or insure your autographed item.
Letter of Authenticity (LOA)
A Letter of Authenticity (LOA) is a document that is typically provided by the seller of an autographed item. The LOA should state that the autograph is genuine and provide some basic information about the item, such as when and where it was signed. While an LOA is not required, it can be helpful in confirming the authenticity of an autograph.
Where to get autographs authenticated? Services list:
Where to get autographs authenticated?:
- Autograph Authentication Companies
- Autograph Dealers and Shops
- Autograph Experts
When getting autographs authenticated, make sure to:
- Research the company, dealer, or expert first. There are many scams out there!
- Get a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) if possible. This can be helpful in confirming the authenticity of an autograph.
- Consider getting your autograph certified. This opinion can add value to your autographed item.
By following these tips, you can be sure that your autographs are real and that you’re getting the most value for your collection!
In the US there are three authentication services with a particularly higher reputation: AutographCOA (ACOA), Autograph Authentication Services (AAS) and Professional Autograph Authentication (PAA). In the UK, there are two: Autographica and The Autograph Hunters Club.
Check also:
- PAAS (http://www.paasautographs.com/)
- PSA (https://www.psacard.com/)
- KSA Certification (https://www.ksagrading.com/)
Conclusion
The autograph authentication process is one that has been used for many years to determine the authenticity of a signature. There are various steps that need to be taken in order to ensure that the signature is authentic. By following these simple steps, you can rest assured that your autograph is real and worth the investment. Have you ever had an autograph authenticated? What was your experience like?