If you've never been to Postsecret it's a great site where viewers submit their own secrets for all to see. This week the above postcard was shown. Unfortunately, it highlights a dirty secret active collectors know about eBay. Fakes are everywhere. This postcards is a useful warning for anybody using eBay. There are a lot of hucksters there so be careful. Whether it's a signed photo or a antique chair always be aware of possible fakes. My only advice is to do your research, ask for a Certificate of Authenticity from a valid authenticator when appropriate and buy from who you trust.
Who are some examples of valid authenticators for someone new to the collectors game outside of baseball cards?
ReplyDeleteGood Question and I should have addressed that more in my post. The 2- 800 lbs. gorillas are James Spence (JSA) and PSA/DNA (a part of Collectors Universe). Their links are on my blogroll on the right under Collectible Companies.
ReplyDeleteI would definitely hesitate from buying any high-end autographed collectible unless it was reviewed by one of them (preferably both).
Also, there are many companies that sell autographs that they actually witness the signing of at either a show or at private signings. I know that GAI and PSA provided authenticity letters at card shows for signers. Major companies that do private signings include Steiner and Naxcom. There are really too many of them to name.
All I can really add at this point is to do your homework and feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions.
This is a great hobby and I'm willing to help as much as I can.
Read this thread about a large autograph controversy in the Auto business
ReplyDeletehttp://www.network54.com/Forum/153652/thread/1201896466/last-1209759706/Open+letter+to+STAT+and+Christopher+Morales
Woops here is a shorter URL: http://tinyurl.com/6cy4qv
ReplyDelete