HOF Autograph Collection Question?

[Bigdaddy]

Originally Posted by homerunhitter

I do like photos, but knowing now based on your statement that most are forged, why would I want to collect them?

Also since you said that cut signatures are the most forged, do those include the upper deck legendary cuts autographs that you can find in packs? Or the Perez steele postcards that have cuts on them that have been authenticated by PSA? Thanks

Most items authenticated by PSA or JSA are authentic. Sure there are ones that slip by and yet still others that are authentic that do not get their stamp. Unless you are really going to deep dive to be able to authenticate an auto yourself, then I'd recommend buying either a previously authenticated auto from a reputable TPG (PSA, JSA) or buy it from a reputable auction house/dealer. Neither of these will absolutely guarantee an auto, but it will increase your odds of acquiring authentic autos. Also, for HOFers that are still alive, most do public/private signings a couple of times per year.

I'll throw out a couple good dealers and let others chime in with auction houses.

Denver Autographs - they are in charge of the signings at CSA shows.
Mill Creek Sports - West Coast Dealer that conducts some private signings and also has a lot of inventory.
Main Line Autographs - based in Pittsburgh, hosts a big auto-themed show once a year and has a lot of inventory, much of it from their signings.
Tom Orr/Atomic Sports - Lots of contemporary autos of HOFers and conducts multiple signings through out the year. Cards, HOF Plaques, Balls, PS postcards, etc.

And if you are on FB, the "Out or Safe?!" Baseball Signature Review, LLC group is a good reference, providing opinions on photos of items submitted to them ($6/signature). I would claim that they are as good as most TPAs.

SportsCollectors.net is also a generally good group ($15/year) with members offering up regular private signings. Just check the 'Member References' section as a couple of folks have provided less than great service. Tom Orr (above) is a member here and lists his signings. Also has a good list of HOFers that sign through-the-mail (TTM), usually for a fee. This includes Nolan Ryan, Wade Boggs, Ryne Sandberg, Bert Blyleven, etc.

Finally, do a search and commit to memory the several TPAs that are absolute trash, because you will run across items with their certifications. Run away from them and any dealer that peddles their crap. And familiarize yourself with Coaches Corner and the absolute garbage that they peddle. Their wares sometimes show up in other's auctions. I cannot believe how they have not been convicted and sent to jail already.

Note that most of the above pertains to newer HOFers and autos. For pre-war autos that many on here collect, that's really a whole other story. Jim Stinson, a member here, is one of several good dealers.

Finally (and this time I mean it), remember "If it's too good to be true, it probably isn't"