Autograph Pricing is Important – But it isn’t Everything

Pricing is one of the hottest topics among sports memorabilia collectors.  I agree, pricing is very important when it comes to collecting autographs and everyone has different budgets, but it isn’t everything.  Yes, when comparing apples to apples on a product you should more often than not buy the cheaper item.  However, let’s take a look at some other factors you should consider before buying that item.

1.) Customer service: Does the company you are buying from have a phone number you can contact them if you have questions?  Seeing just a conversion form on a website is a big red flag.  Do they have a return policy?  Do they take time to answer your questions and get back to you in a timely manner?

2.) Shipping: You guys know how I feel about shipping.  It should be free all day every day.  One of my biggest issues with some sales is a company charging $500 for an item and then a $4.99 shipping charge.  Huh?  Now granted $5 isn’t that big of a deal, but it is the principal of it.

3.) Quality: Most of the time you pay extra for quality.  An officially licensed jersey, a sweet custom framing job, an item with supreme authentication.  Let’s say you are looking for a signed jersey of an athlete.  Officially licensed quality jersey is $200, but a custom no name brand jersey is $125.  Most people might just go for the custom, but take a look at the quality jersey.  For an extra $75 you can get the real deal.  Let’s say you own the jersey for 25 years.  That’s only $3/year extra for the jersey you really want.

4.) Authentication: Of course you can always buy an item with no COA for cheaper than one certed.  I always tell customers to buy an item already certed, it will save you the time and cost of getting it done yourself and the piece of mind knowing that someone else has authenticated the signature.  Also, if an item is 3rd party authenticated, but a similar item 1st party authenticated is slightly more, go for that one.  In the long run, your item will be worth more.

5.) Paying for an item: Every company in my opinion should take PayPal.  Makes it super easy for you the customer and you don’t have to share your information.  I take PayPal and it is my preferred payment method.  So easy to print shipping labels.  Also, when paying for an item, try and make sure you have the cash to pay for it.  Collecting autographs should be a fun hobby, but not put a strain on your finances.  Avoid layaways and putting orders on credit cards.  You will feel SO MUCH better about your purchase in the long run.

Powers Sports Memorabilia was started by me, Matt Powers as a way for sports autograph and celebrity memorabilia enthusiasts and collectors to have a high-quality product available at affordable pricing.  You deal directly with me when ordering anything from my company, so I ensure you get the best quality service and personal care you deserve.  Let me be YOUR sports memorabiliaguy!