Autograph Collectors - Your Thoughts On Autograph Index Cards

[mr2686]

Originally Posted by 3arod13

Do you see less value in an autographed index card, compared to other items autographed? Example would be, an autographed 1953 Mickey Mantle Card compared to an autographed Mickey Mantle Index Card. Both signatures are really nice. The signature on the index card is perfectly centered, but no inscription.

Myself, I think an autographed 1953 Mickey Mantle Card would be much nicer than an index card. However, some collectors look at it as an autograph on a card devalues the card value somewhat. But I've also seen really nice autographs on index cards, yet, someone bought and preferred a fading autograph on a card, photo, etc.

This purchase would be a high dollar investment $12,000 to $15,000. It's for me to enjoy for now, but to also sell one day. I would hate to invest in an autographed index card, if the desire of collectors isn't that great.

Thanks!

Opinions have changed a bit over the years. It used to be that people felt like the signed card devalued it, but prices and sales these days tell a different story. Personally I'd take the signed card any day of the week, and that's coming from someone that has taken many 3x5 index cards and matted them with photos.

[gonefishin]

Good Morning, I have a lot of autographs in my collection and have bought and sold several. There is no doubt in my mind that authentic autographs are more desirable on an item that also contains a photo, narrative or something else pertaining to the subject. Maybe the one exception is on a card that also contains the postage cancellation date or another type of marking where the autograph can be traced to the subject on a specific date.

The problem with autographed photos, 8x10s for example, is subjects typically signed those by the thousands for fans, special events, retail, etc. Again, an exception is a vintage type 1 photo - for example a period Walter Johnson.

Regarding cards, the current market seems to be autographs on sports cards tend to be more valuable, especially on rookie cards. It seems to be a method of turning an $80 card into a $150 card rather quickly. Non factory issued sports cards bring more value when not only the card is authenticated but also graded. Such as 1955 Topps Jackie Robinson autographed card, with the both card and autograph certified and graded - compared to a simply the autographed certified and graded. If you don't pay the extra money to have the card graded, PSA will only label the card as Sports Card, etc.

Hope this helps.