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Van Halen Autograph Album Covers

Hi there, I am new to collecting autographed memorabilia and have always been a huge fan of Van Halen, so it made sense that these would be 2 of the first pieces I've purchased.

I poured over many examples and, of course, felt these were authentic and bought them. I later read something that made me doubt their authenticity and paid to use the PSA Quick Opinion - they promptly came back with likely not authentic. I went back to the sellers to tell them the findings and ask whether or not the could provide further info.

The OU812 was apparently purchased from a WB rep 10 years ago an he would back it 100%, the 5150 was purchased from someone who is an avid VH collector who purchased about 10 years ago as well. He did have a COA that has since been misplaced. They both seem like decent guys and I completely believe the stories.

Can somebody help me out, please?

Thanks in advance

Bill

Tags: 5150, Hagar, Halen, OU812, Van

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Permalink Reply by Micko on February 1, 2014 at 3:36am

Hi William,

I have attached two in-person autographs by Eddie and Sammy that I personally got in 1995 when the band were in London promoting the 'Balance' album. As you can see they like to personalize the autographs. But often bands would have done multiple signings of new albums for the record companies as promotions at the time of release, which would not have that personal touch. I'm no expert but I think the 'Eddie' and 'Sammy' on the 0U812 looks quite good, but it could be good faker. The lack of personal touch of a dedication makes it more difficult. Hope this is of some use...

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Permalink Reply by William Fremmerlid on February 1, 2014 at 9:41am

Hi Micko, thanks for sharing your autographs - they are super cool, and the info you provided is very helpful. Much appreciated!

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Permalink Reply by Mike Shepherd on February 1, 2014 at 5:07am

I agree with Micko. The autographed albums are either authentic or they are very good forgeries. The fact that all of the autographs seem to have been signed with the same silver Sharpie may have concerned PSA as well. If you want a second professional opinion contact Roger Epperson.

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Permalink Reply by William Fremmerlid on February 1, 2014 at 9:51am

Thanks Mike, I actually wished that I sent them to him first. The fact that they were so clean is what made me question them in the first place... but as Micko said some bands do promo signings for the record companies so they must exist, I suppose.

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Permalink Reply by Micko on February 1, 2014 at 10:26am

In fact here's one from a couple of years ago from My Chemical Romance that I got from the record company as promotional material. I'm sure they sat down and did a lot of these for competitions, radio giveaways etc. Again they aren't personalized and done with the same pen.

Apologies for the flare on the photo.

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Permalink Reply by William Fremmerlid on February 1, 2014 at 11:35am

That is a great find, Micko - looks fantastic.

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Permalink Reply by William Fremmerlid on February 11, 2014 at 2:17pm

Hey, just wanted to post an updated for those that may be interested. I took Mike's advice and sent the photos into Roger Epperson for his Quick Opinion service and he believes them to be authentic. In that moment I went from being the worst autograph collector in the world to the greatest that ever lived :) I'm joking of course, but it was a pretty good feeling. Thanks to Mike and Micko for weighing in.

bill