Autograph Collecting Guidelines

Autograph collecting guidelines can help you be a vigilant collector who assembles a quality group of valuable autographs.  Autograph collecting need not be an expensive endeavor, but collecting what you enjoy within a suitable budget will lead to many hours of pleasure and reward. 

The first guideline of autograph collecting is to become aware of the many sources of autographs.  Look out for autograph signings given by Hollywood stars to promote their latest movie.  Even American presidents offer their autograph when promoting a fellow politician or promoting their recently published book.  You may be assured of having an authentic autograph when a celebrity signs in your presence. 

Many collectors take the chance of writing to a celebrity and asking for an autograph.  Doing so is tricky because busy celebrities either do not respond or often have their secretary or machine sign for them.  Be sure to include a self-addressed and stamped envelope if you want the best chance of a reply. 

Finally, make an attempt to validate any autograph that you acquire that you have not personally witnessed.  There are numerous methods to authenticate a signature, but the first place to start is a simple comparison with known examples.  A magazine or website that has authentic examples of a celebrity autograph can be very helpful.  Compare the overall appearance of your signature and note any unusual features, such as the crossing of a “t” or the slant of individual letters. 

Building a valuable collection can take many years of hard work and diligent searching.  Use autograph collecting guidelines provided by the many free and reputable sources on the Internet to improve your autograph collecting savvy.