The internet has created the opportunity for non-genuine signatures to thrive in the marketplace, but it’s also afforded buyers with a remarkable number of tools to help ensure authenticity.

Purchasing autographs on eBay can be a good experience despite those who will try to scare you into not buying.  You do need to know how to shop for a ball or other autograph however.  Older baseballs that haven’t been authenticated can be real, but you will want to do plenty of research and perhaps employ the services of PSA/DNA’s ‘quick opinion’ service before making a commitment to bid.  For a minimal fee, the company’s experts will examine the signed ball on eBay and render an opinion on whether it’s likely genuine or likely non-genuine.  This way, you’re getting a level of safety.

If you’re in the market for a vintage signed ball, be aware that most dealers won’t sell autographed items that haven’t been authenticated by some of the more highly regarded names in the industry.  EBay only allows a certain number of autograph authentication services to be included among its listings.  PSA/DNA and James Spence Authentication are two of the better services.  If you’re buying with their approval, there is no absolute guarantee the autograph is real, but there is a pretty good likelihood.  The more reputable companies have an extensive database from which to compare and contrast submissions with those already known to be real.  A full authentication letter or opinion should give the buyer a feeling of some comfort.

Of course, some autographed balls aren’t worth enough to have someone authenticate them.  In that case, check the seller’s feedback and see what the provenance of the ball may be.  Chances are, the seller isn’t selling bogus items if he’s not selling items priced at a level that would be worth it to him.  Do your homework and see if you can find online examples of the same ball that are real.

Beware of the hot players whose autographs show up on eBay at low prices.  If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Better to commit to a higher price with authentication that to try and find a bargain.

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Shop for autographs on eBay