Presidential Autographs are Great Collectibles

Signatures are not the only presidential items that have value. Presidential clothing, pens used to sign important documents, desks and other furniture items regularly used have historical significance as well as being very collectible.

Before you start thinking about all the money you are going to make, realize there are perils in collecting presidential autographs.  Where do you find these rare signatures? First, let’s start with where not to go. eBay is a very dangerous place for buying autographs. Of the thousands of items for sale on eBay, many are the real thing, but there are many more items for sale on eBay that are fake. Why? On eBay it is very easy to move a large amount of items quickly without much, if any oversight. So almost no one is asking questions regarding authenticity. And that is a big mistake.

I find estate auctions and online auctions specializing in presidential items great places to go for purchasing authenticated items. There are many high quality auction houses in the United States holding these types of auctions. One of my favorites, EAC auction house (www.eacgallery.com) in New York, handles historical memorabilia auctions.  They have a money back guarantee on any item sold. In my opinion, that is the only way to buy from any auction or auction house. This guarantee protects you if you later find out the item is not authentic. When choosing an auction house, find one you trust and be aware of how they authentic any items they sell.

I have had my best results locating rare items by looking at online auctions, using dealers I trust and from time to time using eBay. I only use eBay with the knowledge that I need to very be careful.

My next point is regarding authenticity. If you buy the autograph from a dealer, go armed with the knowledge there are more fakes in the marketplace than real signatures. James Spence, of JSA Authentication (www.spenceloa.com), knows the problems first hand. Says Spence, “One of the hardest things I have to do is tell someone they spent good money on a forged autograph. Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more common. For every real autograph for sale, there are five that are bogus.”

What is the best way to protect yourself when buying a high-end signature? Spence advises, “Buy with a credit card for added protection and always get a certificate of authenticity from an authenticator that is nationally known and accepted by all auction houses.”

One additional point to be aware of is regarding frames. When buying any kind of item that has been framed, have the collectable removed from the frame. This will allow you to see if your treasure has damage that was hidden by the frame. Suspicious? Maybe. But this is more common than people think. You can remove the frame yourself or your local framer can complete the task for a minimal charge.

I have been collecting presidential signatures and memorabilia for many years so I understand how elusive these documents can be to locate and buy. The realization you are holding a document that was actually touched by one of the Presidents of the United States is very powerful. Of all my collections, my presidential collection was the most difficult to attain, but is the most enjoyable collectible I own.