Sports Autographs - Determining Value on Autographed Sports Memorabilia

Collecting sports autographs and autographed sports memorabilia has become a trendy and pricey hobby. No doubt collecting such items can be complicated and expensive. Like any investment vehicle, prices of autographed sports memorabilia are determined by supply and demand. This clip aims to clarify some of the confusion that help determine value on sports autographs.
The primary driver in valuation is popularity of the athlete. Athletes who have been the best in their sports like Michael Jordan, Mickey Mantle and Manny Pacquiao will command higher prices than others. These athletes set the bar in their trade and are regarded as Hall of Fame players. Championships, top rated rankings, MVP’s and other awards help cast the spot light on athletes propelling their autographs to higher levels.
The type of memorabilia athletes sign is also a key valuation driver. Game used balls, jerseys, bats, helmets etc. will be more expensive than replicas. The condition of the item also persuades buyers. Items in pristine condition will attract more interest than those that show signs of wear and deterioration.
The location of the signature can make a product more aesthetically appealing thus creating newness for collectors. Baseballs signed legibly in a non fading marker on the sweet spot will be draw more buyers and higher prices than ones that are non legible and on the side. The same holds true for jerseys, hockey pucks, bats, helmets and other memorabilia articles.
Signatures on documents can be worth tremendous amounts of money. It is believed that one of the most expensive sports athlete documents was Babe Ruth’s signature on a contract between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. This was the contract that led to the demise and the 86 year World Series drought for the BoSox meanwhile propelling the Yankees to record championships.
Not only is the popularity of the athlete important in valuing sports autographs, but also the supply of autographs available in the market place. It is said that Tiger Woods and Tom Brady rarely sign autographs when randomly asked. They sign memorabilia only in private auctions and events. Because of the rarity of signatures in the market, their autographed sports memorabilia costs a lot more.
Other factors to consider are whether the athlete is still alive. Popular athletes who have passed on are known as vintage collectibles. Their value tends to remain steady and rarely drops. Games in playoff mode also help drive athletes value simply because television networks and media outlets focus on those teams and players. For example athletes who perform well in an NBA Finals series will more than likely have a surge in autograph demand. Keep these tips in mind when searching for you favorite athletes.