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Reprint Autographs on Ebay: These guys are killing me

Is it just me, or are there even more forgeries among the reprint autographs on Ebay than actual hand-signed forgeries?

I keep seeing this guy's reprinted posters on ebay, and I have yet to find a U2 autograph that's even a passable representation. They're all different, and they're all clearly forged. In fact, despite my novice (put generously) overall knowledge of music autographs, I would feel comfortable saying that everything this guys sells are probably all based on forged autographs.

http://www.ebay.com/sch/savage.graphiti.code/m.html?item=2611186909...

So, are these somehow okay since, technically, they're fake anyway? Is there some sort immunity for these sellers since they're not representing the items as originally signed to begin with and their prices are much, much lower? There's still plenty of dishonesty present, and this seller (and others like him) are making a huge killing in selling this trash.

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Permalink Reply by Scott Paul on October 25, 2012 at 2:31pm

I would think there are some copyright issues since I doubt those images are in public domain. i maintain any reproduction of anything eBay should have to have in bold letters in the title REPRODUCTION and not have hidden in the fine print. Why there is market for such stuff is beyond me but there appears to be

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Permalink Reply by Rich on October 25, 2012 at 2:36pm

Good point! I was thinking about that, too - how is it ok that they are selling unauthorized reprints of those images, autographs aside? I guess I don't understand the ins and outs of what is acceptable as far as reprinting goes, but that seems like it can't possibly be legit.

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Permalink Reply by Manon Auger on October 31, 2012 at 6:54am

Some people can't afford a real autograph, so the only solution is to have a reprint. When I began collecting, I saw reprints as a good compromise (I changed my mind very fast though LOL). But when the reprint itself is a forgery, that is such a SHAME. Some people are really gready and don't have ANY conscience! :-(

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Permalink Reply by Rich on October 31, 2012 at 7:24am

Exactly. I'll try not to look down at a decent facsimile (especially for a rare or expensive autograph, but so darned many of the ones on ebay of forgeries or really, really bad examples.