How to Buy Authentic Autographs on eBay Without Getting Scammed

Autograph collecting can be fun and rewarding if you take the time to educate yourself. But if you go in blind, especially on eBay or any online marketplace, chances are high you’ll get burned.

Here's how to protect yourself and buy smart:

1. Read the Description Completely

Always read the full listing. Look for keywords like preprint, copy, or reprint—these are not authentic signatures. Use advanced search filters:

-rp -pp -reprint -preprint -print -rpnt -copy

For example:

johnny depp signed photo -rp -pp -reprint -preprint -print -rpnt -copy

Also, uncheck the “search title and description” box to avoid filtering out legit sellers who mention “no reprints” in the description. Change “Best Match” to “Ending Soonest” or “Price + Shipping” to find better listings.

 

2. Research

Don’t rely on eBay to learn what’s real. Use reputable books, compare known authentic examples, and ask questions. Be cautious of online forums filled with self-proclaimed experts—always ask for detailed justification behind opinions.

 

3. Don’t Rely on COAs

Most COAs are worthless unless they come from BAS, JSA, or PSA/DNA. COAs should include full contact info. Avoid dealers who limit return periods or base everything on their own “guarantee.”

 

4. Know the Seller

Review seller history and listings. If all their autographs look the same or use the same pen, be skeptical. Anyone claiming they got autographs from agents or managers is bluffing—unless it's a legitimate private signing.

 

5. Ask the Right Questions

Don’t ask “Is it real?” Ask where it came from and whether it’s a lab-developed photo. A good seller will be transparent, not defensive.

 

6. Don’t Trust Feedback Scores Alone

Forgers often have great feedback. Feedback measures service, not authenticity.

 

7. Be Realistic About Prices

If it’s priced at $9.99, it’s not authentic. Authentic Harrison Ford autographs don’t sell for $49.

 

8. Inspect the Item When It Arrives

Hold it under a light. Real ink reflects differently than the photo. Turn signatures upside down to compare objectively.

 

9. Think About Ink

Paint pens hide detail and take forever to dry. Most real collectors use black, blue, or silver Sharpie—nothing weird or neon.

 

10. Use an Authentication Service

ACOA, BAS, PSA/DNA, and JSA offer fast pre-auction opinions. Only use eBay-approved authenticators.

 

11. Never Buy from Sellers with Private Feedback

Zero exceptions. Private feedback hides red flags.

 

12. Return Policy Matters

Buy only from sellers with a clear return policy, a real website, and contact info.

 

13. Watch Out for eBay Drop-Off Franchises

They’ll sell anything and aren’t autograph experts. Be careful.

 

14. Stick with Registered Dealers

We recommend AFTAL, UACC, RACC, or PADA dealers. We’re AFTAL Approved Dealer #AD123.

 

15. Limit Your Sources

Buy from a small group of trusted sellers. The more random your sources, the higher your risk.

 

16. Most Sellers Are Uninformed or Worse

The majority of autographs on eBay are fake. Some sellers just don’t know better. Others do.

 

17. Be Wary of Proof Photos

A real “proof” is a photo of the celeb signing that exact item. Anything less is helpful, but not definitive proof.

 

18. Avoid Private Auctions

No good reason for private listings. Period.

 

19. Know What a “White Sheet” Is

This is a cheap inkjet photo printed over a real signature. Always ask if the photo is lab-developed. Only one answer is acceptable: YES.

 

20. Watch for Short-Duration Auctions

Forgers use 1–3 day auctions to avoid scrutiny. Be suspicious of short, cheap listings.

 

21. Cast and Band Signed Items Are Rare

If it’s listed every week, it’s not legit. These take years to complete—real ones are hard to find and expensive.

 

22. Certification Should Be Standard

Today, most reputable sellers get items certified. If they don’t—or they trash-talk certification—walk away.

 

23. Final Word

If someone constantly lists rare autographs week after week, they’re selling fakes. There are very few of us actually selling authentic material online. Be smart and buy from sellers who care—like us.

 Now click or touch here go buy some of our authentic autographs!