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Hi Guys

Just recently joined this forum and been reading many threads.  Long time collector now dealer and I would like to post my views on ebay purchasing. 

I am probably covering already covered ground but I notice that a lot of questions about authenticity through the forum are from novice or relatively new to the autograph collection industry and they would like to get some more experienced opinions before parting with there hard earned.

If I may - my three quick and easy rules I would stick by when you are in this position on ebay are:

1.  Gut feeling is usually correct, if it looks too cheap then it is rubbish and should be avoided.

2. First red flag for me is if I see some elaborate story about how the item was obtained.  If the item is Authentic it will sell itself.  A small story around the signature is fine but if you see some drawn out justification it will more than likely be Fake.

3. Always look for registered dealers either U.A.C.C or AFTAL, these are the two main registered dealers.  These guys as part of the registration offer a LIFE TIME guarantee on their items.  I know that there are sellers using these registration logos as part of their ad's that are not actually registered dealers.  Always double check by going to either website and check the updated registered dealers page.  If they are not listed there then STEER CLEAR.

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Can I just clarify my last statement here, when referring to registered dealers I refer to not only U.A.C.C or AFTAL but also any REGISTERED DEALER of autograph memorabilia as there are too many to mention individually.

Just would point out in the last 2 days there has been 2 different threads about Aftal dealers selling fakes. I personally wouldn't buy from any aftal dealer as there are to many bad ones and couldn't trust them as the ones that run it still haven't answered a lot of questions about the michael Jackson debarcel

Hi AC

Well if that is the case I would agree with you.  I was not aware of that situation.

Let's be realistic..... acronyms are for the birds. I have lost count with the number of UACC & AFTAL members (even those in charge of these organizations) selling forgeries. Don't even get me started on JSA and GA/GAI...even PSA, these "authenticators" may be the end all, be all in certain fields, but they drop the ball plenty. If you find yourself in the position that you must buy an autograph....come here, ask the forum who is the right person, and only proceed from there, once you have talked with people that actually know the particular signature you want.













Pete makes a very important point regarding sellers who are either UACC or AFTAL or both and who have no problem in selling fakes even if you a past customer of theirs.  It does not mean unfortunately that all their stuff will be genuine 

Pete - Thanks for your views on this, I do agree with you that just by being Registered does not mean you are without doubts with some items of authenticity and there has been many cases you have mentioned. 

It is intended as more a guide for buyers that are not too familiar with authenticity on ebay.

It sounds like you have been down that road a few times.

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