One of the most common questions we hear at Powers Sports Memorabilia is:

Can authenticated autographs still be faked?

The short answer is:

Yes—but it's much harder to fool an educated collector.

Many collectors assume that if an item has a hologram from JSA, Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), or PSA/DNA, it must automatically be genuine. While these companies are the gold standard in the hobby, counterfeiters have become increasingly sophisticated over the years.

Fortunately, there are several ways to protect yourself before making a purchase.

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Yes, Authentication Stickers Can Be Counterfeited

Unfortunately, counterfeit holograms do exist.

Fraudsters have been known to copy or imitate authentication stickers from companies like:

• Beckett Authentication Services (BAS)
• James Spence Authentication (JSA)
• PSA/DNA

In some cases, counterfeiters even copy a legitimate certification number from a real item and place it on a completely different autograph.

If a buyer only checks that the certification number exists in the online database, they could still be fooled.

That's why verification should never stop at simply scanning a QR code.

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Step 1: Verify the Hologram

Always examine the authentication sticker itself.

The major authentication companies continually update their holograms, security features, and QR codes to make counterfeiting more difficult.

Things to look for include:

• Proper hologram quality
• Correct security features
• QR code functionality
• Font and printing quality
• Signs the sticker has been removed or replaced

If something looks unusual, investigate further before purchasing.

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Step 2: Verify the Database

The next step is checking the certification number online.

All three major companies allow collectors to search their databases using either the certification number or QR code.

When you search, confirm:

• The athlete's name
• The type of item
• Authentication date (when available)
• Authentication method
• Any available item description

This confirms the certification number is legitimate—but you're still not finished.

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Step 3: Compare the Actual Autograph

This is one of the most overlooked steps in autograph authentication.

Even if the hologram and certification number are genuine, you should compare the autograph itself to known authentic examples.

Look at:

• Letter formation
• Signature flow
• Pen pressure
• Size
• Placement
• Overall appearance

Professional authenticators spend years studying autograph characteristics.

Collectors should do the same whenever possible.

If an autograph looks significantly different from numerous known authentic examples, it deserves additional scrutiny.

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Letters of Authenticity Add Another Layer of Protection

One of the best safeguards available is a Letter of Authenticity (LOA).

Unlike a simple sticker, an LOA often includes:

• The certification number
• A description of the item
• A photograph of the exact collectible
• A photograph of the actual autograph

Because the letter is tied directly to that specific collectible, it's much more difficult for someone to substitute another item using the same certification number.

Whenever available, an LOA provides additional confidence for collectors.

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Witness Authentication Is Even Better

The strongest form of authentication is Witness Authentication.

With witness authentication, a representative from the authentication company was physically present when the athlete signed the item.

This eliminates much of the guesswork involved with opinion-based authentication.

Companies such as JSA, Beckett Authentication Services, and PSA/DNA all offer witness authentication for many public signing events.

Whenever possible, this is the preferred type of authentication for collectors.

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Buy From Trusted Dealers

Even with authentication, where you purchase your memorabilia still matters.

Reputable dealers carefully inspect items before offering them for sale and stand behind the authenticity of what they sell.

At Powers Sports Memorabilia, we only sell authentic collectibles obtained through trusted signing events, reputable suppliers, and respected authentication companies.

Our goal is to give collectors complete confidence in every purchase.

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Don't Rely on One Thing Alone

The safest collectors use multiple layers of verification.

Instead of asking only:

"Does it have a hologram?"

Ask:

• Does the hologram appear authentic?
• Does the certification number match the database?
• Does the autograph match known authentic examples?
• Is there a Letter of Authenticity?
• Was it witness authenticated?
• Am I buying from a reputable dealer?

The more boxes you can check, the more confidence you should have in the item.

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Final Thoughts

So, can authenticated autographs still be faked?

Unfortunately, yes.

Counterfeit authentication stickers and copied certification numbers do exist.

Fortunately, trusted companies like JSA, Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), and PSA/DNA continually improve their security features to stay ahead of counterfeiters.

By verifying the hologram, checking the online database, comparing the autograph itself, reviewing any available Letter of Authenticity, and purchasing from a trusted dealer, you can dramatically reduce your chances of buying a fake.

An educated collector is always the best defense against counterfeit memorabilia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can authenticated autographs still be fake?

Yes. Counterfeit holograms and copied certification numbers have been used by fraudsters, which is why collectors should perform multiple verification steps.

Can someone copy a JSA, Beckett, or PSA hologram?

Unfortunately, yes. Counterfeit stickers have appeared over the years, which is why authentication companies regularly update their security features.

Is scanning the QR code enough?

No. A QR code should only be one part of the verification process. You should also inspect the hologram and compare the autograph to known authentic examples.

What is a Letter of Authenticity?

A Letter of Authenticity (LOA) is a document issued by an authentication company that often includes the certification number, item description, and a photograph of the exact autograph being authenticated.

Is a Letter of Authenticity better than just a sticker?

In many cases, yes. An LOA provides additional documentation and often includes a photo of the exact item, making it harder for counterfeiters to misuse certification numbers.

What is witness authentication?

Witness authentication means a representative from the authentication company was present when the autograph was signed, making it the strongest form of authentication available.

Which authentication companies are the most trusted?

The industry's most respected companies are JSA, Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), and PSA/DNA.

Where should I buy authenticated sports memorabilia?

Purchase from established dealers like Powers Sports Memorabilia that specialize in authentic collectibles and work with trusted authentication companies.