Differences Between Types Of Signatures

[FlyersFan]

I'm sure this has been posted before but I haven't seen it.

I am familiar with some of the language used in this hobby but what does each of them mean, some are common sense.

Authentic
Ghost Signer
Autopen
Preprint
Stamped

So I guess my question is, one are there any other "variations" of signatures and, two what does each of the above mean. For example I was looking through Wayne Gretzky's reports and it looks like he mostly sends out autopens - what's an autopen ?

Now most of the time I only send out baseball's so I assume I am "immune" to autopens and stamps but am susceptible to ghost signers - am I correct ?

Thanks for any help!

[demonhunter69]

An autopen is a machine that takes one authentic signature and scans it into a computer/machine that reproduces the authentic signature on different items. Its really a high tech instrument. A stamp is just that, a rubber stamp that an autograph has been super imposed upon. Preprints are just scans of an authentic signature and Ghost signers are people who are usually employees of said athlete/personality who are paid to sign items. There was once a clubhouse signer for baseballs etc usually a clubby or even a batboy who signed particular items. For example, I have a 1954 Indians team ball that's authentic but has a clubhouse signature for the Manager. The ball is still worth decent money but it has a fake signature of the manager. All stamps and preprints are good for is displaying. They are totally worthless. Autopens are tricky as you will find out as you continue to collect. They hold very little value as well. A good eye can catch ghost signers and those items are not valuable either. My best advise to you is to collect in person, buy from a reputable dealer or collector buy certified autographs or go to shows and pay big money for the signatures you desire. I have been graphing for 37 plus years and I do through the mail at about a 60% authenticity rate. Do your homework and try going to minor league venues if you can as most players will sign for you. Good luck and God bless your travels in autograph collecting.

[FlyersFan]

Thanks bud!!

[stlcardinalsfan]

you can usually spot a autopen by the dots left by the pen or marker.....the pen stops and leaves a dot when moving. you spot them if you mess with autos long enough

[FlyersFan]

So can a baseball be autopened ? Or does it only work on flat items ?

[SolacE]

autopens only work on flat items. They are not equipped to handle items with irregular shapes or curves of any sort.