Many people have either heard about, seen, or own signed Jeff Gordon & Dale Earnhardt Jr. autographed items that include the individual driver's numbered hologram.

These Holograms were designed for the drivers as a way for fans to know that they have purchased authentic signatures. However, there are some very strong misconceptions regarding these holograms. I hope to clear these issues up with this blog post.

1st, Let's look at the holograms on signed 1/24 scale die-cast cars

JEFF GORDON:


DALE EARNHARDT JR:


I want to start off with the discussion by telling you HOW you can obtain a hologram. The easiest way, is to buy a pre-holo'd item through various vendors such as QVC , Mounted memories, or the driver's race stores ( if offered ). The drivers usually sign a number of items to be sold through various outlets as well. Qvc is the largest vendor of the holograms. Drivers sign thousands of items to be sold through their "for race fans only" brand.

The more difficult way to get a hologram is by meeting a driver at a specified meet and greet appearance. The holograms are offered there. However, you do NOT have to have a hologram placed on your signed item. This is where I must warn collectors that the glue on the sticker can damage older photos, postcards, or other items. I have seen several Jeff Gordon Rookie postcards ruined due to the hologram's reaction with the old stock cardboard paper used in the postcard.

Remember, if you choose to accept the hologram on you item, it will be placed over a portion of the signature. It can disrupt the presentation of the item due to the color changing effect that the hologram displays. Plus, each hologram has the Driver's logo and the individual serial number on it as well.

Now comes the time when I bust a LOT of collector's bubble's regarding the hologram sysytem. The holograms are ONLY given out at organized signings ( or through vendors ) they are NOT offered at any time at the race track where 80-90% of all NASCAR autographs are obtained. When you are lucky enough to meet Jeff or Dale Jr. at a track and obtain a signature, you will NOT receive a hologram. The logistics of this makes it impossible. This means that THOUSANDS of items are signed each year without the pressence of a hologram. It does not make them any less real at all.

This is due to the fact that the hologram is a VERY clever marketing tool. Is it smart? YES! Is it important for buyers? YES! However, the holograms are NOT assigned to every item signed by these two amazing drivers. In fact, there are FAR more autographs without a hologram that are authentic, than those with a hologram issued. This is confusing to many people who think that items are ONLY real if a hologram is included.

One feature offered for hologram owners is that you may register the item at the driver's website. ( in the case of Jeff Gordon, there is a minimum charge for this feature ). This will show what the item is and where / when it was signed.

Remember though, if you obtain a signature away from an organized signing, you are not able to obtain a hologram for the item at a later date.

All of this makes for a nice blend of options. If you collect holograms, you know the item is real. If you buy items that are not holo'd, DON'T be afraid to make the purchase, the drivers sign plenty of authentic material. However, you should seek out an expert opinion justto be sure ( USE THE FREE AUTHENTICATION SERVICE I PROVIDE HERE).

I hope that this clears up a few misconceptions. The main one being that if an item does not have a hologram, it is not real. That just 100% is NOT TRUE!! Quite the opposite infact!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

note: (The images listed here are the property of Brandon Mysinger and may not be used without permission)