Finally- one I actually needed, E224-2

[T206Collector]

Originally Posted by Leon

I would just as soon it not be there.....but it doesn't bother me too much since it's light and doesn't touch Hooper at all...

I used to think that way. Before I purchased my first signed T206 card about 5 years ago, I debated whether the signature even added anything to the card or whether it just detracted from its appearance and value.

Now I can hardly imagine preferring an unsigned card to a signed one.

Oh, and here's another signed E224-2....

From Misc. Pre-War

[rhettyeakley]

I have always felt that a signature on an otherwise common card adds a lot to the piece, like your T206's. However, I think a signature on the front of a true rarity tends to reduce the # of potential buyers and is a bit distracting, like in the case of the E224-2--but it is still a great card that I would have loved to have won.
-Rhett

[T206Collector]

Originally Posted by rhettyeakley

. . . . I think a signature on the front of a true rarity tends to reduce the # of potential buyers and is a bit distracting. . . .

You raise two different points, both of which are well-taken. First is that the market for rarities is higher when they are not autographed. I am not sure I completely agree, but I think it is more contextual. Could you imagine the value of an autographed T206 of Honus Wagner or Eddie Plank? Through the roof, would be my guess. But again, I think it is contextual in terms of the rarity and the signature.

With respect to the "distraction" point, I think that's an important issue in autographed card (or photo) collecting. The color, size, clarity and placement of the signature can either add to or detract from the overall presentation and image of the piece. In the case of the Hooper, I think the signature is more distracting than, say, the Marquard above given overall aesthetics.

[rhettyeakley]

I agree that what I said does not apply in all cases. Obviously a T206 Plank signed by Plank would be great, because he passed away in 1926. However, Hooper and Marquard lived until 1974 and 1980 respectively--two totally different things.

Also, had the signature been in period fountain pen it would be different or had the signature been placed on the back of the card (which is blank).

It's the fact that the sigs are ballpoint pen that distracts me personally.

-Rhett

[bijoem]

I've wanted this one for a while -
and I believe on more than one occasion I may have pestered the owner of the only other one that I know of (I am sure there are others / but I only knew of one other person to pester).

I collect Wagner.... so I guess this "filled a hole" - although I really don't look at it that way.

[Leon]

Originally Posted by bijoem

I've wanted this one for a while -
and I believe on more than one occasion I may have pestered the owner of the only other one that I know of (I am sure there are others / but I only knew of one other person to pester).

I collect Wagner.... so I guess this "filled a hole" - although I really don't look at it that way.

Congrats Joe....one of my favorite all time poses of Wags......How can you not love that card?

[ethicsprof]

congrats Leon et al.
top drawer acquisitions!!!

best,
barry