Is That Real?

Many years ago, a friend was visiting my home.  They asked a question that is understandable, and certainly not unusual, for any person who does not collect autographs.  “Is that real?”  My friend was referring to my framed Alfred Hitchcock autograph.  It was proudly displayed on my wall.

My framed, and proudly displayed, Alfred Hitchcock autograph.

When I replied that it was, in fact, authentic, they were amazed.  Why is it that people who do not collect autographs are so often transfixed by the fact that items actually exist that have been signed in the hand of actual historic figures?  Perhaps it is because we hold actual people who have occupied the same planet as ourselves to be more than human.  They are not.  They are just plain people.  They put their pants on one leg at a time, just like we do.

I am certain that I am not the only autograph collector to have experienced this phenomenon.  It is a very typical experience that is related to our hobby.  One of many that make collecting autographs so enjoyable.

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Comment by Joe W. on January 24, 2021 at 3:35am

The number one question I get is a close variant. "How do I know it is authentic?".

My wife has her standard question she asks every time she finds out what I paid for one. "Is it really worth that much?". 

Most people are not even aware there are autograph collectors out there and my collection does spark a lot of attention when someone sees it for the first time. They generally ask me if I have an autograph of whomever their favorite celebrity happens to be.

Comment by Mike Shepherd on January 24, 2021 at 3:43am

I have never received that question.  I suppose that we will never know if an autograph is truly authentic, unless we witness it ourselves.  Thanks for the comment, Joe W.

Comment by Mark Adams on January 24, 2021 at 4:09am

I get that question a lot from people who don't me or visit for the first time.

Not only signed pieces etc. But more so with my asian art collection. 

Regards, 

Mark 

Comment by Mike Shepherd on January 24, 2021 at 6:09am

Interesting.  I suppose that it is a pretty standard question for most collectibles.  Thanks, Mark.

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