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When buying autographs, you should avoid fads and autographs described as investments or sold through pressure tactics. Buy autographs of people that interest you. You should also learn as much as possible on what makes an autograph authentic and important.
Use common sense when purchasing an autograph. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Buy only from reputable dealers. If you are uncomfortable at anytime during the purchase process, walk away.
The first bit of advice for new autograph collectors is to make small purchases. When you become comfortable with the hobby, then you can progress to more expensive items. If you are buying from a dealer, don't be afraid to ask specific questions. Example: "How long have you been in business?" and "Where did you get this autograph from?"
You should ask for references if you are wary. Legitimate dealers will not mind answering such questions because they understand that you may be new to the hobby and concerned. Be very wary of online auctions. Your avenue of recourse is limited and many sellers often disappear after unloading a bunch of forged autographs.
Pens for "Live Autographs"
If you are acquiring an autograph from a celebrity in person, you should use a silver or gold pen for a dark background. The companies that make these pens are Sanford, Pilot, and UCHIDA of America. All of these pens are basically the same. The extra fine point pen is sort of a free flowing ink, and you have to press the pen slightly to keep the ink flowing. The problem with this pen is that it sometimes drips and you get this big gold (or silver) glob on your print. The other thicknesses have a felt tip and come in a whole variety of thicknesses.
As for 8 x 10 pictures, I prefer the Sanford Slim Tip Markers as they are felt tipped and do not drip, but are still thin enough to produce a sharp autograph. This pen needs to be primed before use (as with all of the above pens). The only problem with the felt tip is when using it on cloth items (such as baseball caps), they wear out very fast, but on photos they can last a very long time. If you are going to use any of these pens, experiment with them for 5 or 10 minutes before you use them.
Helpful Resources for Collectors
SigningsHotline.com: The ONLY site that lists EVERY athlete autograph appearance in the US and Canada. Go to http://www.signingshotline.com/autogramtracker
Need a one-stop internet resource for celebrity appearance information? It can be found at http://www.celebritydirect.net
Need a quick & fairly priced online appraisal of your collectible? Try http://www.whatsitworthtoyou.com/tias.htm
Hot Film / Music Autographs
Here is list of celebrity autographs that are currently at the top of our buyer's want lists:
- Mick Jagger - the Crowned Prince of Rock & Roll just turned 60 years of age! The Rolling Stones signed items are also in big demand. Autographed album jackets and 8x10's seem to be preferred. Jagger is a bit touchy with fans, but will occasionally accommodate autograph requests.
- Drew Barrymore - she has always been a fan pleaser and is scorching in the recent film release "Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle." She is a generally easy to approach for an autograph. If you can get her to sign her full name, that's a real bonus!
- Dave Matthews - his popularity and fan support continues to rise at an astounding pace. His signed items are consistently a big seller for us. Matthews is very personable with autograph seekers.
- Cher - since she announced that this would be her final year for touring, her signed items have hit the roof! Signed album jackets and 8x10's seem to be preferred. She is somewhat touchy with fans, but will occasionally accommodate autograph requests.
- Demi Moore - yes, she is back! After a 4 year hiatus, she is appearing in the new film release "Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle." She is a very difficult and elusive signer.
- Christine Aguilera - she continues to gain momentum and fans. Requests for her signed 8x10's increase monthly. She is very personable with autograph seekers.
- Lauren Bacall - her popularity continues through the generations. We receive requests on a regular basis for her signed 8x10's from her most popular films. A fantastic lady...will always sign for a fan!
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