subject: Autograph Authenticity [print this page] Autograph authenticity is of prime concern to collectors. How do you know if an autograph offered by a dealer or Internet auction is real? How can you prevent being the victim of autograph fraud? With so many forgeries available, collectors must be vigilant or hazard the consequences.
First, it is important to be aware that there are many ways to determine whether an autograph is real. Basic screening is easy to apply and involves practical knowledge and common sense. Sophisticated methods can be employed, but these require time and an outlay of money that can be considerable. Your financial outlay may be considerable if you have a professional authenticate each and every autograph.
Your first task is to examine the format of an autograph. An autograph that is out of context can be immediately ruled out as real. For example, a color photograph signed by George Washington is not possible. A first edition biography of Albert Einstein that was published in 1960 and allegedly signed by him is not possible since he passed away in 1955. On the other hand, a contract or other legal document with the proper context, date, and other corroborating information, can provide compelling evidence of authenticity, even if the signature is atypical.
Comparing genuine samples of the persons signatures and handwriting is a simple and practical way to quickly assess an autograph. Exemplars of genuine signatures can be found on various Internet sites. Ideally, a fair assessment requires comparison of signatures from the same time period since autographs tend to change over time. Autograph experts have studied signatures of celebrities such as Walt Disney and Marilyn Monroe, and have noted how their signature pattern changed over the course of time.
Autograph authenticity is important for collectors who wish to maintain collections that are genuine and valuable. Using the simple but practical points described in this article will help you identify authentic autographs.
