Why autographs?

[Deertick]

Originally Posted by sbfinley

True, but I am comfortable with my opinion when it come to cardboard. There isn't a card in my collection that I ever pause for a moment and question its authenticity. I couldn't even pull the trigger on a single signed Mantle ball, however, and even though I really would like one in my collection I doubt that I would ever be 100% certain about its authenticity unless the way I view autographs changes. I guess that my main issue is that although I want to expand into this region of the hobby, I cannot justify the expense of doing so without more faith in the matter.

How long did it take you to reach that comfort level? Buy the players you feel comfortable authenticating, and on the 'toughies' get an opinion (or purchase ) from someone you trust.

I am getting better at Mantle. It has been a gradual process, over a year at least. (Some have become experts in a few days ) At this point I still wouldn't buy a Mantle on my say so. When someone asks my opinion, it is based on the question "Would I be comfortable buying this?"

[Runscott]

Originally Posted by Deertick

How long did it take you to reach that comfort level? Buy the players you feel comfortable authenticating, and on the 'toughies' get an opinion (or purchase ) from someone you trust.

I am getting better at Mantle. It has been a gradual process, over a year at least. (Some have become experts in a few days ) At this point I still wouldn't buy a Mantle on my say so. When someone asks my opinion, it is based on the question "Would I be comfortable buying this?"

This is my philosophy almost exactly. I'm not interested in Mantle so I haven't attempted to learn his signature, but you can substitute 'Ruth' for 'Mantle', and I'm in the same boat. With Ruth, it's actually gotten worse for me. There was a point where I felt good about my abilities, but given how many seemingly bad ones are deemed 'good' by the experts on this forum, I've lost a bit of confidence.

You can also reduce your risk by going Leon's route, but I don't like the looks of such documents, so I've gone for handwritten letters.

Steve - I also have to feel the same way about my autographed items that I feel about my cards. If I don't, then I get rid of the item.