Need advice for TTM cards

[Blueline90]

I quit using penny sleeves because too many times they came back signed instead of the card.

also, I would only send two cards max. Lots of people send a bunch of cards. This is greedy and lots of good signers (mike mussina, bob pulford, etc) went from being great signers to no longer signing TTM because they see those items on ebAy. Lots of players send the dreaded "due to items showing up on ebay, I no longer sign." The greedy people in this hobby ruined it for guys who are happy with 1 autograph of a player but these guys feel the need to send 7 cards then try selling then on eBay.

i have found that sending one card tucked between two index cards for protection usually results in an autographed trading card and two autographed index cards...score!

also, I use a small envelopes, then fold the SASE in half inside the outer envelope and the cards fit between the fold nicely so they stay protected. I also ask a few questions on the bottom of my letter. It's interesting to hear what they have to say. It seems like the less they played the more willing they are to answer questions.

i also recommend handwriting all letters. I heard from some former players they sometimes don't sign if you type the letter because if you can't take 5 minutes to write a letter, they are not going to take a few minutes to sign. It's also tacky in my opinion to type the letter.

There are also several old timers who send you signed photos if you write them. Lots of the older generation players love to hear from fans.

I have over 1000 TTM autographs, everything from trading cards, index cards, baseballs, mini helmets, tickets, photos, hats, shoes and even an old radio (Ernie Harwell). If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to ask.

[Akweldadam]

Wow, great info ^^^. I have a couple guys ready to go out and I put 3 cards in there and told them they could keep whatever they wanted, probably won't get anything back lol. I did hand write my letters, which was a painful chore for me because my handwriting can be horrible if I rush it, so I tried to take my time. I'm really excited about starting to do this, other than most of the players I have looked up so far have horrible success rates lol. I was hoping to just do stuff for my PC of Cleveland and Ohio state stuff, but the more I talk about TTM, the more I want to just start going through my cards and seeing who has good return rates. I have thousands of base cards from the late 80's and 90's that are pretty much worth nothing, so instead of throwing them out or donating I might just start sending them off. Wirting the letter is the hardest part for me as I don't really know what to say, especially to guys I never saw play, but I try to keep my letters short and to the point and make it a big point to address them as Mr. and be extremely polite about asking for an autograph.

[Blueline90]

These are usually how my letters go....

Dear Mr. XXXX
Hello. Hope this letter finds you well. I am a huge fan of yours and your playing career with the Cleveland Browns. Although I never seen you play, I admire your dedication to the game of football.

I am writing to ask if you could autograph my card for my collection of football legends. Thank you for taking the time to sign for your fans and best wishes.

Your friend and fan, XXXX

I went to the dollar store and bought a notebook that was like half size,so my few words take up a nice chunk of the page. I also ask a question or two on the bottom of the page. Lots of guys will answer questions. Good luck, like I said, feel free to message me if you need help or advice.

[Blueline90]

Oh yeah, I know Joe Fortunato, Gary Glick and Gino Marchetti will send a signed photo. They are not Browns, but hey, a nice autographed football photo for $.90 in postage is worth it.

[Akweldadam]

Thanks for the info! I'll be sending you a PM shortly.

[ReedAutos]

Marchetti sends a 4x6 Ron Mix art card, designed for the HOF...similar to a Goal Line Art

[mrveggieman]

The most I sent out was 8 I believe. I told the guy to keep some but he signed all 8.

[150010927]

I usually only send one, I also put it in a plastic protector because several have come back very bent without one. Lonnie chisenhall and old Indian joe carter are good signers. Good luck.

[Akweldadam]

I'll have to try Lonnie, I looked up Carter on a couple different sites and wasn't happy with his success rate, maybe I'll give it a shot.

[Coltron57]

I had a Joe Carter success w/ $5. I think the donation is key for him.