What really happens behind the scenes at a major autograph show? We traveled to Nashville to handle customer items for dozens of athlete signings. From Doug Flutie examining game-used jerseys and Pedro Martinez correcting an inscription to using PROVA authentication and finding cards at the show to get signed, here’s a look at everything collectors normally don’t get to see.

Why are Shaquille O’Neal sports cards getting more attention? Explore Shaq rookies, rare inserts, nostalgia, and why collectors are looking again.

What really happens behind the scenes at a Scottie Pippen autograph signing? Caleb traveled from Kansas City to California with customer memorabilia for our recent signing with the six-time NBA champion. From preparing items and choosing pens to meeting Pippen and seeing some incredible Michael Jordan and Dream Team pieces, here’s a look at the experience.

Arch Manning sports cards have become one of the hottest topics in football collecting. We break down his college cards, autographs, the impact of the Manning name, rookie card questions, and what collectors should consider before buying.

Sports card boxes can be confusing. Hobby boxes, blasters, hangers, jumbo boxes, and First Off the Line products all offer something different. Learn what each sports card box is, what you can expect to find inside, and whether you should open packs or simply buy the card you really want.

An autograph signing may seem like something you can always catch next time, but that is not always the case. Athletes stop signing, rules change, certain items become restricted, and opportunities disappear. Learn why collectors should take advantage of the right signing when the athlete, item, and price make sense.

What is the best pen for getting a jersey signed? Learn which Sharpies and paint pens work best on sewn-on and screen-printed jersey numbers, which colors we recommend, and the one color you should never use on fabric.

Before studying the signature, study the item. Learn how dating memorabilia, checking logos, tags, materials, and the signer’s timeline can help you spot questionable autographs and avoid common mistakes.

Silver Sharpies may seem like a natural choice for autographs, but there are usually much better options. Learn which sports memorabilia items can handle a silver Sharpie, when you should use a silver paint pen instead, and the one surprising item where a silver Sharpie may actually be your best choice.

Ever see us post an autograph signing and wonder how you missed it? Some signings are never publicly announced. Here’s why certain autograph signings stay private, how VIP signings work, and why athletes or autograph agents sometimes limit who can participate.

Will an authentication sticker on the back of an autographed sports card hurt its PSA grade? Based on our firsthand experience, we’ve received numerous PSA 10 card grades and 10 autograph grades with authentication stickers attached. Learn when we recommend witnessed authentication, when you might skip it, and why you should never try to remove a sticker once it’s applied.

What are professional athletes really like at private autograph signings? After years in the sports memorabilia business, Matt Powers shares 10 of his favorite athletes to work with—including Stephen Curry, Barry Sanders, Reggie Jackson, Willie Mays and more—and some unforgettable stories from behind the scenes.