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Permalink Reply by Eric Keith Longo on April 11, 2024 at 4:50pm

How much do genuine O'Conner's go for? Why would this seller take less? "I got it in person, TPA's know nothing" is a red flag. Scott Paul I think might have something to add. IIRC this signature is very tough indeed.

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Permalink Reply by Jason Poulos on April 11, 2024 at 5:10pm

Pretty big range.  150 to 500

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Permalink Reply by Scott Paul on April 12, 2024 at 5:35am

For $500 it would have to be very important for me to add it.  I would say $85-200 would be my range depending on the material.  The prices on eBay reflect a couple very good sellers who put huge prices on things making others think their item is worth that.  You see a lot of high-priced autographs just sit there and get renewed.

The seller has a bit of a point if talking about quick opinions from PSA I feel they often err on the side of caution.  I think it is hyperbolic to say they do not know what they are talking about.  If there is something atypical even though it may be perfectly good, it can come back as "Likely Not Genuine." 

In the case of atypical signatures, it is often having to play defense lawyer to defend it all the time.  When dealing with autographs important for a particular collection I look for the best quality signature I can afford.  If anyone does it for an investment (I do not) it my opinion quality will generally hold value.  I bought a Tammy Grimes signed polaroid very cheap under $15 years ago.  A picture of her with the former owner of the photo.  I have never seen an actual polaroid that I thought was forged especially if there is owner standing next to them.  If they will stand for a photo chances, are they will sign it.  Her signature was very rushed and after getting it and looking at it I ended up buying a more expensive very typical and clean autograph.   The photo is unique, so I like having it I just do not look at the signature on it.

There are two or three O'Connor's available between $150-180 including a check.  In my opinion as a collector I would spend the extra if I really wanted it.  

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Permalink Reply by Scott Paul on April 11, 2024 at 4:55pm

Personally, I do not like it.  A few years ago some of us discussed O'Connor.  So many are secretarial.  I decided years ago to get a check of his.  Brick Hunter I think started the discussion and Mike P also not sure if either are currently active.  I think I posted my O'Connor on it.  The search engine pulls up a lot.  Here is one of the discussions.  There is something I look for and do not see in this signature.  I do not want to dispute what the seller is saying, but it is not something I would want.  

All in the Family signed cast photo - Authentic? - Autograph Live (...

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Permalink Reply by Jason Poulos on April 11, 2024 at 5:09pm

Thanks for your input.  I really appreciate it

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Permalink Reply by meggs on April 12, 2024 at 8:57am

Jason, what Eric and Scott are telling you is spot on.  Yes, a reputable authentication service will error on the side of caution when a signed item is atypical. And occasionally that atypical signature will inevitably be authentic. People lie, forgers proliferate. Someone saying they got in person is ignored by a reputable authenticator, as it should be.

I don't claim to be in the same league as Scott or Eric, but I did a quick look at the 10 JSA items up for sale on fleabay and what immediately jumped out at me was that not a single one had the breaks in the signature the way yours does. Personally, I wouldn't touch it.

I'm not saying it couldn't be genuine, I'm not saying that it's impossible the seller is telling you the truth and it's genuine and atypical. But to put it diplomatically, I'm very skeptical.

The other thing to think about is All In the Family is a brilliant and timeless show with a decent amount of collectors. And Carroll O'Connor is the key to collecting the main characters. I can't think of any reason a seller would let it go for $50 unless this master seller was desperate for cash flow. Possible, but I wouldn't bet my $50 on it.

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Permalink Reply by Eric Keith Longo on April 12, 2024 at 9:02am

"I can't think of any reason a seller would let it go for $50"

Maybe because the seller realizes that $99 in unlikely ;) The "investment" was likely a few cents in paper and ink if that, so $50 is a decent return. And someone buying that for $50 is likely never going to question it let alone research it. The price drop alone sends a clear message.

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Permalink Reply by meggs on April 12, 2024 at 9:05am

LOL! I can't argue with your logic, Eric.

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