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How to Spot Fake Sports Memorabilia Autographs
One of the biggest concerns when buying signed sports memorabilia is whether the autograph is genuine.
Unfortunately, fake autographs exist in every collectible market. Anytime there's money to be made, there will be people trying to take advantage of collectors.
The good news is that many fake autographs leave warning signs if you know what to look for.
While no single clue guarantees an autograph is real or fake, these red flags can help you make better buying decisions.
Compare the Autograph to Known Authentic Examples
The first thing you should examine is the autograph itself.
Ask yourself:
- Does the signature look similar to known authentic examples?
- Is the overall size consistent?
- Does the autograph have the same angle or slant?
- Does it appear to have been signed naturally and quickly?
- Does the pen pressure look consistent?
Professional authentication companies evaluate many of these same characteristics when examining an autograph.
If something immediately looks unusual, it's worth investigating further.
Does the Memorabilia Make Sense?
Sometimes the biggest clue isn't the autograph—it's the item.
Ask yourself whether the memorabilia makes sense for that athlete.
For example:
A Babe Ruth autograph on a modern Official Major League Baseball with today's commissioner's signature would be an immediate red flag.
Babe Ruth passed away decades before those baseballs existed.
Likewise, consider:
- Was this type of item available during the athlete's career?
- Is it something they commonly signed?
- Does the era of the memorabilia match the athlete?
If the item itself doesn't make sense, neither does the autograph.
Look for Trusted Authentication
One of the easiest ways to reduce your risk is to buy memorabilia authenticated by a trusted third-party authentication company.
The three companies most recognized throughout the hobby are:
- Beckett Authentication Services (BAS)
- James Spence Authentication (JSA)
- PSA/DNA
While an autograph authenticated by another company isn't automatically fake, collectors generally place much more trust in these established authentication companies.
That's also why memorabilia authenticated by Beckett, JSA, or PSA often commands higher prices.
Verify the Authentication Online
Modern authentication should be easy to verify.
Most Beckett, JSA, and PSA items include:
- An authentication hologram
- A unique certification number
- Often a QR code
Always verify the certification number using the authentication company's online database.
The online record should match:
- The athlete
- The type of memorabilia
- The authentication number
If the information doesn't match the item you're buying, ask questions before purchasing.
Be Careful with Unknown Authentication Companies
Not every authentication company has the same reputation.
If you've never heard of the company, ask yourself:
- Do they have an online database?
- Can the certification number be verified?
- Are they widely recognized by collectors?
- Would major auction houses accept their authentication?
If the answer is no, proceed carefully.
The value of an authentication depends heavily on the reputation behind it.
Watch for Payment Red Flags
How a seller wants to be paid can also tell you a lot.
Be cautious if a seller insists on payment methods that offer little or no buyer protection, such as:
- PayPal Friends & Family
- Zelle
- Cash
- Mailed checks
- Other non-refundable payment methods
Whenever possible, use payment methods that offer buyer protection in case there's a problem with the transaction.
Research the Seller
Before spending hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars, take a few minutes to research who you're buying from.
Look for businesses that have:
- A professional website
- A published phone number
- An email address
- A way to contact customer service
- Customer reviews
- A clear return policy
If you can't easily contact the seller before purchasing, that's another warning sign.
Reputable companies are happy to answer questions.
Review the Return Policy
Even experienced collectors occasionally have concerns about a purchase.
Before buying, make sure you understand:
- The company's return policy
- Authentication guarantees
- Refund procedures
- Customer service policies
A clear return policy shows that a business stands behind what it sells.
Final Thoughts
Fake sports memorabilia autographs are an unfortunate reality of the hobby, but most collectors can dramatically reduce their risk by doing a little research before buying.
Compare the autograph to known examples, make sure the memorabilia makes sense for the athlete, verify the authentication online, and purchase from reputable companies that stand behind their products.
Taking a few extra minutes before you buy can save you from making an expensive mistake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a sports autograph is fake?
Compare it to known authentic examples, verify the authentication online, and make sure the memorabilia makes sense for the athlete and the era.
What are the biggest red flags when buying signed sports memorabilia?
Unknown authentication companies, unverifiable certification numbers, unusual payment requests, poor seller communication, and memorabilia that doesn't match the athlete's era.
Should I only buy PSA, Beckett, or JSA authenticated memorabilia?
While other authentication companies exist, Beckett, JSA, and PSA are the most widely recognized and trusted throughout the sports memorabilia hobby.
Is an authentication hologram enough?
No. Always verify the certification number through the authentication company's online database to ensure it matches the item.
What payment methods should I avoid?
Be cautious of sellers who insist on irreversible payment methods like PayPal Friends & Family, Zelle, cash, or checks, especially if you don't know the seller.
What should I do before buying expensive memorabilia?
Research the seller, verify the authentication, compare the autograph to authentic examples, and review the company's return policy.
Related Guides
- What Is Sports Memorabilia Authentication?
- How to Verify Online Sports Memorabilia Authentication
- What Is Witness Autograph Authentication?
- Certificate of Authenticity vs. Letter of Authenticity
- PSA vs. Beckett vs. JSA: Which Authentication Company Should You Use?
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Great to add another one to the 70 Topps set. Fantastic service!
All hail the Chief!!! Robert Parrish .. 4x NBA champion inscription.. Double 00..
I waited a long time for this one especially being a huge fan of the Showtime era Lakers. Kevin Mchale was a thorn in my side but I have the utmost respect for him and the Celtics.. A great addition to my growing collection..
The Hall of Fame ticket!! Earl Campbell thanks to the team at PSM!! Keep up the good work!!
My new favorite Funko!! #1 … Warren Moon
Nice autograph
The autograph looks great and full
Signature smaller than I requested...
Came out great!
Came out good
PSM always does an excellent job. They took care of my Dream rookie card. I like the fact that when I send my items into PSM I never have to worry about them.
The CJ auto hits for me. Upper Deck, sharp placement, and honestly, it makes my collection much better. Greatly appreciate the auto.
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Beautiful piece of memorabilia!!!
To finally get one of my baseball idols is an absolute dream come true but to get this card with an on card auto really made it all worth the wait! Thank you!!
Excellent service with this signing. Thank you!
Autograph came out great!
Awesome experience as always, I’d highly recommend Powers to anyone looking to expand their sports memorabilia collection!
Once again, Powers Sports came through big time! I had been waiting for many, many years to have this mini helmet signed by Carson Palmer. With special thanks to Natalie and Mathew, they were able to coordinate this endeavor exactly as I wanted it. Excellent autograph, perfectly positioned, using the exact paint pen requested and the C.O.A. sticker positioned right where I wanted it. Thank you folks so very much!
Matt and his team did a great job as usual. I highly recommend power’s!
Always great dealing with Powers. Got to watch Earl Singing on their website. Couldn't be happier with the helmet and the signature. Another perfect purchase. Thanks Powers crew!
I submitted 2 cards for signing by Dennis Rodman and came back very nice but one of the cards corner was damaged when returned back. Thank you Matt Powers and his team for this signing event.
I submitted 2 cards for signing by Hakeem Olajuwon & came back very nice. Thank you Matt Powers and his team for this signing event.
Power Sports Memorabilia is the best and always my "go to" autograph company to deal with. They are so accommodating and always get what you want and how you want it !!!! A+ on ALL counts !!!
I wasn't at the convention to be there for his signing. However, he has a killer autograph very happy with this autograph
Another great jersey signing!
PSM never let's me down. Another great auto on my multi signed piece. Thank you again.
The Barry Larkin auto in my PC is pure heat. Crisp ink, great placement, total keeper.
Just received by Bo Jackson Rookie Card back from Powers Sports Memorabilia. Once again, Powers Sports was able to get my card signed exactly as requested. Excellent signature, perfectly positioned and using the right kind and color marker.
Everything at Powers is first rate. They posted the videos on Facebook so I actually got to watch LT sign my helmet. And then they shipped me my helmet it's perfect could not be happier.
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