TOP 5 MISTAKES WHEN BUYING YOUR 1ST AUTOGRAPH

TOP 5 MISTAKES WHEN BUYING YOUR 1^st AUTOGRAPH

Most of us don’t buy autographs every day, usually every once and a while as a gift for someone. Or, maybe this is your 1^st time buying an autograph. 

Here are my Top 5 mistakes to avoid.

#1 BUYING AN AUTOGRAPH WITHOUT A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY

If you don’t buy autographs often, how do you know what you are buying is real?  Or you are getting this as a gift for someone and don’t have time to research it.

If you are unfamiliar with buying autographs, always make sure your autograph comes with a certificate of authenticity, also known as a COA. 

Some of the better COAs are from 3^rd party autograph authentication companies such as PSA/DNA, JSA (James Spence Authentication), and BAS (Beckett Authentication Services).  These are just 3 of the more popular COAs, but there are other reputable companies out there as well. 

Here at Powers Sports Memorabilia, I carry over 22,000 items, each authenticated by PSA/DNA, JSA, or BAS.  You know you are getting the real deal EVERY SINGLE TIME with me.

#2 BUYING A LARGE SIZED ITEM

When getting a gift for someone, often times you are unaware of the amount of wall or office space they have available.  Getting a smaller item, one that can easily be displayed is the way to go.

For example, getting an autographed baseball or football mini helmet in a display case. Or a framed 8x10 photo instead of the larger 16x20 size.  These are easier to display because they take up less space.  They can also often be less expensive.

Obviously, if you do know what the person is looking for and has the wall or office space to go bigger, then feel free to get the bigger item. 

#3 BEING AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS

Going back to #1 tip, most people don’t buy autographs all the time.  They are often very unfamiliar with the industry.  Ask questions and don’t be afraid to!

What are some good questions to ask?

Is this autograph authentic?  If so, how?

When will this item arrive?

What is your return policy?

Or if you need help finding the perfect gift, don’t be afraid to ask for a recommendation. Here at Powers Sports Memorabilia, just tell me the athlete or team you are looking for and budget you would like to spend.

I know which items are the best sellers and can steer you in the right direction to make you look like a hero to your gift recipient!

#4 WAITING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE

I am all about saving you money and getting you the BEST item possible.  Spending money on express shipping can often times kill your budget. 

While I can ship items overnight, 2-day, and 3-day if you get into a last-minute pinch, it is often best to do some research 7-10 days before you need the gift.

This will give you plenty of time to do #3 and also have the item shipped ground, which with me is always FREE!

Especially during the holidays when certain autographed items begin to sell out, so get that early start!

#5 NOT GETTING AN ITEM FRAMED OR ADDING A DISPLAY CASE TO YOUR ORDER

If it fits into your budget, I highly recommend getting that photo framed (if not already) or adding a display case to that autographed baseball, basketball, football, or mini helmet order.

Having the item completed (ready to hang on a wall or display on a desk), is a nice touch to your gift recipient. 

They won’t have to go out and buy one themselves and can start enjoying their item immediately.

I hope these 5 tips will help you to find not just the right gift, but the PERFECT gift.

Still need help?  Reach out to me ASAP!  I am here to help you get that joyous reaction an autograph gift always gives.

Matt Powers

Powers Sports Memorabilia

923 NE Woods Chapel Rd, Suite 203

Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

(650) 888-7915

matt@powerssportsmemorabilia.com

www.powerssportsmemorabilia.com

 “I get you the autograph they dream about!”