How to Get an Autograph Certified Authentic

There are only six known William Shakespeare autographs, making the autograph extremely valuable.

Many people enjoy collecting autographs from sports, entertainment or political figures and keep them in a private collection. If the autograph wasn't obtained by you in person, you should have it authenticated to prove it's an original signature. The authentication verifies the validity of the autograph and certifies the value of the signature when it's placed on the market for sale.

Instructions

1. Contact an autograph expert. There are many reputable autograph authenticators in the marketplace across a range of fields. Some specialize in a certain area such as sports or historical signatures. Professional Sports Authenticator, Global Authentics LLC. and James Spence Authentication are all leaders in sports autograph authentication.

2. Submit the autograph and all associated documentation. Each company has a different policy; you'll be asked to submit the autograph to the company by delivering it in person or through the mail. Include supporting documentation. For example, if you have a signed costume by a movie star, submit a photo showing the actor wearing the costume. Autograph authenticators looks at the whole mosaic presented. A photo of the actor wearing the costume before signing it validates the whole tableau.

3. Speak with the authenticator about whether or not the autograph is authentic. Knowing the reason for the autograph's validation helps you understand the thought process of the authenticator and provides you with talking points should you ever choose to re-sell the item. The authenticator compares items such as the formation of letters, pen pressure and depth of ink on the paper and compares the signature to other authenticated autographs by the same person.

4. Request and receive documentation from the authenticator validating the autograph is legitimate. The certificate should include the name of the company and the individual who authenticated the signature, the date and if possible remarks by the authenticator about why the autograph is believed to be authentic.

Tips & Warnings

• Insure the autograph and send it registered mail. The authentication service should have insurance for the time the signature is in their possession. Additionally, if the value of the autograph is high, purchase a separate insurance policy for the signature itself. If the autograph is lost, stolen or damaged, you'll be reimbursed in accordance with your insurance policy.

References

• Autograph Club: Top Five Most Expensive Autographs
• Autograph Authentication: AMA Authentication Process
• Chicago Appraisers: Authenticating Signatures

Resources

• PSA Card: Autograph Authentication
• Global Authentics LLC: Autograph Authentication
• Spence LOA: Home