Autographed cards add a personal connection between collector and athlete. But the market is riddled with fakes. Here's how to collect safely.
Types of Autograph Cards
On-Card Autographs: Signed directly on the card surface. The most desirable type — harder to fake and more visually appealing. Found in premium products like National Treasures, Topps Chrome, and Flawless.
Sticker Autos: Player signs a sticker that's applied to the card. More common in mid-range products. Less valuable than on-card but still collectible.
Cut Signatures: An autograph cut from a document or photo and embedded in a card. Used for deceased players and historical figures.
Authentication
For non-pack-pulled autographs, always verify authentication. PSA/DNA, Beckett Authentication (BAS), and JSA are the three major authenticators. Never buy an unverified autograph for significant money.
Red Flags
Autopens (machine signatures), secretarial signatures, and clubhouse signatures are common fakes. Compare any autograph against verified examples on PSA's or Beckett's authentication databases.