Autograph Collecting and Purchasing When collecting autographs, there are a few do's and do not's to consider. When deciding on a gift, quality and uniqueness are important.
News-Antique.com - Oct 04,2008 - When writing a letter to request an autograph from a celebrity, it is advisable to write no more than one page. Although celebrities may be thrilled that you appreciate their work, or liked their acting in a certain TV show or movie, they simply do not have enough time to read multi-page letters from fans. Also, when writing to a celebrity, try to include some specific references to their work that you particularly enjoy. Be very specific in your descriptions. Mention character names that they have played and movies in which they have starred or appeared. This makes a much better impression than just simply saying... "I enjoy all your movies. Send me an autograph". Be courteous and respectful. My experience has been that celebrities are truly impressed with kind treatment from their fans and they usually reward it.
Buy autographs that capture your interest. Don’t purchase items presented as “investments” or sold through pressure. Learn as much as possible the language of autograph collecting. The more you study, the easier it will be for you to determine what items are authentic and which items to purchase. Use common sense when buying a signed piece. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Purchase autographed items from reputable dealers, who will help you avoid risks and problems. Many dealers offer a certificate of authenticity only, which is only as good as the reputation of the dealer. If you have questions, ask the dealer. If they cannot tell you when and where the item was signed or how it was obtained, go elsewhere.
Autographs have been called “frozen moments in time.” Autograph collectors are curators of history. The most personal item that one person can give is his or her signature. Anything that can be signed can be considered collectible…letters, documents, photographs, books, memorabilia, etc. Few objects give a collector the opportunity to own a unique or one-of-a-kind item that is actually part of someone who is known by millions of people. That is the main reason why autograph collecting has become one of the fastest growing hobbies in recent years as well as a great gift idea.
The year 2008 will be remembered for the high number of blockbuster film releases. There were “Iron Man”, “The Dark Knight”, “Wanted”, “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian”, “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull”, “Righteous Kill”, “The Happening”, “Get Smart”, “Hancock”, “Hellboy 2: The Golden Army“…whew! Plus many more to come, including “Quantum Of Solace”, “The Changeling”, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”, “The Day the Earth Stood Still”, “Angels & Demons” and “Star Trek”, that are sure to become huge hits. A beautifully autographed photograph of one the stars or casts would be a perfect gift for your loved one. Go to Strickler’s Celebrity Autographs, a trusted name in the autograph hobby and give that unique gift for the holidays.
