How to Score Autographs

You never know where your next brush with fame may be. Here are a few tips for adding to your collection of John Hancocks without relying on serendipity to put you in the right place at the right time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Albums

1. Start a collection fast by purchasing autographs at memorabilia shows and auctions. Get proof of authenticity.

2. Stand in line. A sports show might book a Hall of Famer to sign autographs. An auto dealership might feature a NASCAR driver. Sometimes players or speakers sign autographs before or after an event. Bring the kids along for a chance to meet a hero. Stars are usually good about signing items for their younger fans.

3. Write letters to famous folks asking for signatures. Be sincere and include a self-addressed stamped envelope and blank cards.

4. Protect your investment by keeping autographs in their original state. Don't glue or tape an autographed paper onto cardboard or any other surface. Don't laminate. Hobby stores sell boxes or albums appropriate for storing autographs.

5. Don't give up your day job. While some autographs are very valuable (Ernest Hemingway, $1,000; JFK, $1,500), for the most part, this isn't a money-making hobby. Still, time will tell. Today's Brad Pitt ($25) could be tomorrow's Bruce Lee ($600).

Tips & Warnings

• You can find addresses for agents or representatives of famous people in Who's Who (whoswhoonline.com) or through fan clubs. Reach political bigwigs through their government offices.
• Keep a supply of blank index cards and a permanent black marker with you at all times.

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on 3/22/2007 We use a service called ContactAnyCelebrity.com -- they give you the best mailing addresses for over 54,000 celebrities.