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The New Normal

We hear a lot of discussion about the “new normal” these days. For many of us, things will never be the same again. We are constantly being reminded of how societal norms may never return to what they once were prior to the pandemic. This may also be true for autograph collectors.

What will comic conventions look like in the near future? Will celebrities only be willing to use their own markers, never allowing a fan to present to them the one that they prefer to be used on their item to be signed? Will the same be true for athletes at sports collectors conventions? Will autograph guests even attend in person? Many are opting for private signings these days. Regarding photo ops, will they simply become a thing of the past?

In-person autograph dealers are also having less success. Many celebrities may never approach a stranger holding a Sharpie on the street again. It simply may not be worth the risk of exposing themselves to potential illness.

Mickey Mouse is currently suspending all autograph opportunities at Walt Disney World.

Even Walt Disney World has changed the way that character autographs are handled. They have been suspended, and may return eventually, but with rules and regulations that will simply make things less fun for Mickey Mouse’s youngest fans. The characters are currently standing away from crowds of families, and waving from a distance.

Let us hope that things return to the “old normal” very soon. Stay well, everyone!

0 members like this

Comment by Mike Shepherd on July 30, 2021 at 11:17am: It truly is horrible.

Comment by Joe W. on July 31, 2021 at 6:11pm: I believe that the one constant in life is change. Yes, some things will not return to the way they were but this always creates a new path. Perhaps I'm just an optimist but the past year or so has changed the way I look at the world around me and I've found new doors of opportunity. When there is a well, there is a way.

Comment by Mike Shepherd on July 31, 2021 at 7:11pm: I agree, Joe W. Optimism is crucial. Thanks for the comment. Stay well.

Comment by Joe W. on July 31, 2021 at 7:51pm: I meant to say if there is a WILL there is a way.

With that said people have changed the way they interact. But, with time the pendulum will swing back. Humans are designed to be social.

Comment by crazyrabbits23 on August 2, 2021 at 9:43pm: The "new normal" has resulted in situations where major creators like David Gilmour, Demi Lovato and John Mayer, among many others, are upping their online presence to bring harder-to-find autographs to more people. Perspective is everything.

While there has certainly been the potential for garbage autopen shenanigans, the industry as a whole is still evolving in many different ways. Insofar as getting autographs from comic conventions, I've seen that CGC is now hosting private "virtual" signings with major creators and celebrities on a regular basis, and while the price is high, if I can get a Keanu or Scarlett signed and slabbed comic for $300 with shipping all-in, that's certainly better for me than paying the premium to travel to another state for a convention.

The way I see it, if you're already invested into the auto market and have a sizeable position, you will only continue to see the value of what you have rise. And if you're coming in and are quick on the draw, you can score some incredible deals across the board. If it weren't for this board, I wouldn't have been able to pick up a couple of bucket list autos I'd been wanting for years.

Comment by Mike Shepherd on August 3, 2021 at 3:43am: Great perspective and great points, Crazy Rabbits. I have also been taking advantage of some of the private signings that have been occurring. Take care.

Comment by terrier8HOF on August 3, 2021 at 11:01am: I wish more A list musicians would have their authentic autographs available in their on line sites. if they are so concerned about in person hounds reselling for profit, wouldnt this take care of at least that issue?

Comment by Mike Shepherd on August 3, 2021 at 12:09pm: Yes, it would, Terrier. I also believe that many autograph collectors would be willing to pay a premium.

Comment by Butters24 on August 4, 2021 at 1:19am: Too be honest I haven't really been told no this year on the streets of Southern California. Even last year in the middle of lock down I was still able to obtain a couple of autographs. I rarely went to get someone last year, but some names you can't pass up. The industry has slowed with certain events. But overall its not stopping celebs from signing.