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Abbott and Costello - JSA LOA - Does this look good?

I'm seeking some guidance on 1950's era Abbott and Costello signatures. Here's a photo of them from the 1952 film LOST IN ALASKA that has the two signatures with no inscription. JSA certified it. These look like possible quick late career signatures. The Abbott is in black ballpoint and the Costello in blue fountain pen. I know their signatures changed a bit from the 40's-50's, especially Lou's.

JSA aside, any thoughts from the experience of this group as to how they look? Should one be more wary of a signed photo without inscriptions in your opinion? Thanks!

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Permalink Reply by David Lewis on January 25, 2021 at 4:52pm

I have no exact date, but at lest by 1953 Costello was connecting his names together. In my humble opinion this looks good. Two different signing instruments would usually mean it was signed at different times. The signatures head in two different directions. A forger or secretary would in most cases make it look neater and more presentable. I have seen an example where the boys signed a 1953 "TO MARS" photo where the inscription was added by a secretary….. it was said. In my 40+ years collecting autographs I liked inscriptions and as much authentic handwriting I could get my hands on. Forgers and secretaries may sign a similar signature but usually get the inscriptions wrong. My non Apple computer updated without my consent years ago and wiped out 20+ thousand 30's-70's exemplars that I collected. Keep your collector library safe.

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Permalink Reply by Eddy on January 25, 2021 at 5:35pm

Thanks, David. What a loss to have those images disappear!

I'm leaning toward it being good as well. Both of these signatures look more like their typical later career signing. In the early 40's, they both had nice penmanship but it seemed to deteriorate and be "faster" by the 50's...especially Lou it seems.

You have a good point about a forger making it neater.

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Permalink Reply by David Lewis on January 25, 2021 at 6:35pm

Most times forgers will only do names, not inscriptions. ….In some instances secretaries or publicists will add names to preprinted signed photos. Other times I have seen celebrities sign names of the recipient on pre authentically signed photos in a different color or thickness of ink. The more authentic information you can put into your personal library of the celebrities you want to collect, the better off you will be.