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Q. How do you store your autographs? - Matt, Dallas, TX |
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The
best way to physically store an autograph is definitely up for debate.
There is however a few key tricks to the trade that can ensure a high
quality signature.
The most
important thing is to always keep the signature away from light. A
signatures number one enemy is light, whether it is the sun or just a
strong bulb, a signature can fade if it is left exposed too long. If
you choose not to display the item keep it in a box or a drawer,
cabinet, etc. If you do choose to display it then pick an area where
the least amount of light is exposed.
Another
important thing to remember is to not try and cut costs on the
protection of your item. If you are willing to invest in an autograph
make sure that you have the right things to protect it. Put your photo
in a nice frame or at least a hard plastic cover to keep it from
bending. If you have a baseball choose a UV protected display. The
few extra dollars you spend protecting your item will be well worth it,
and will keep you from uttering "if only." |
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Q. What should I collect? - John, Oklahoma City, OK |
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This
is a very broad question. Every person is different. They key in
collecting is that you have a passion for it. I’ve met many different
people who have collections of many different things. But the one
thing that they all have in common is passion.
Here
are a few of my favorite collections I’ve seen this year: Signed HOF
Plaque Cards, Signed full name baseballs, Cal Ripken Jr. game used
collection, and a collection of signed gloves. |
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Q. What is the best type/brand of pen to write on a MLB baseball? Braxton - L.A., CA |
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A.
The pen that we have found stands the test of time on an official MLB
baseball is the Bic® Accountant Fine Point. Unfortunately, they are no
longer being manufactured so they are hard to come by. The newer Bic®
version that we use is the Round Stic Grip blue Fine Point. The basic
rule of thumb is to use a fine point tip to prevent the signature from
running together or bleeding into the ball. Blue is also the preferred
color because the signature stands out better and doesn’t fade as fast
as black. |
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Q. How necessary is it to hold onto the certificate of authenticity? -Mark, Allentown, PA |
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A.
Mark, the Certificate of Authenticity (or COA) is quickly becoming
outdated. With all of the technological advances of holograms and
online verification the COA is becoming less and less necessary.
Authenticity is our top priority and we like to provide you with
everything you need to show that your item is truly authentic. The
card is just another form of proof that your item is real. If your
item is for personal use then it may not be as important, but if you
plan on re-selling your item at any point I would strongly recommend
keeping the COA someplace safe. – Ironclad Authentics |
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Q. Do inscriptions really increase the value of an item? -George, Baltimore, MD |
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A.
Great question George. Inscriptions have become more and more popular
in the business. A great thing about having a signature with
inscription is that the item is unique. Whether you have an item with
a players nickname, or his stats, the item is much more rare than a
normal signed ball. Just think about anytime you’ve seen a player at
the ballpark and got his autograph. He doesn’t sign his MVP years, he
simply signs the item and moves on. The inscription also can capture a
moment in time. We love coming up with pieces that capture a magical
moment. An inscription is another way of doing that. - Ironclad
Authentics |
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Q. What player was your biggest thrill in meeting? - Jeff, San Diego, CA |
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A.
I always have fun doing any signings. Whether its guys you used to
watch play or a guy you see on ESPN every night now, meeting each new
player is an honor. My personal favorite had to be Don Mattingly
though. I grew up with his “Hit Man” poster on my wall and to actually
shake hands with my favorite player was a real treat. There are a
number of others out there that I was really in awe of meeting but for
me it doesn’t get any better than “Donnie Baseball.” - Ironclad
Authentics |