Collecting autographs can be a thrilling hobby, but it's important to verify the authenticity of any autographs you acquire. With the rise of online marketplaces and the ease of creating forgeries, it's more important than ever to know how to verify an autograph. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
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Research the autograph: Before purchasing or accepting an autograph, do your research on the person who signed it. Look up examples of their signature online and compare them to the one you have. If there are noticeable differences, it may be a fake.
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Look for identifying marks: Many celebrities and public figures add unique identifying marks to their autographs, such as a certain phrase or symbol. Look for these marks on your autograph to ensure it matches up with known authentic examples.
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Check for consistency: Look at the consistency of the ink and the pressure applied to the signature. If the ink color varies, or the pressure changes throughout the signature, it may be a forgery.
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Get a second opinion: If you're unsure about the authenticity of an autograph, get a second opinion from a reputable expert in the field. They can examine the autograph in person and give you a professional opinion.
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Check for a certificate of authenticity: Many autographs come with a certificate of authenticity (COA) from a reputable authentication service. If the autograph you're considering has a COA, be sure to research the authentication service to ensure they have a good reputation. Fan Arch would recommend using either JSA, PSA or Beckett Authentication.
In conclusion, verifying the authenticity of an autograph is an important step in collecting. By doing your research, looking for identifying marks, checking for consistency, getting a second opinion, and checking for a certificate of authenticity, you can help ensure that the autographs you collect are the real deal.