Collecting autographs, known as philography, is a captivating hobby that attracts enthusiasts worldwide. Some signatures can be worth thousands of pounds, making it a lucrative pursuit for many. Enthusiasts often reach out to celebrities, sending photographs for them to sign. However, this practice is sometimes exploited by autograph dealers who pose as fans to obtain signatures, which they later sell for profit. This has prompted celebrities like George Foreman to keep detailed records of autograph requests, noting the names and addresses of those who contact them.
Generally, autographs from living celebrities are less valuable than those of historical figures, mainly due to their availability. Among the most sought-after signatures is that of William Shakespeare, with only six verified examples in existence, all safeguarded by institutions.
Collectors typically specialize in a particular field, such as literature, music, politics, film, art, or sports. The pencil signatures featured here were discovered in an autograph album bought at a flea market in Carmarthen. This collection includes signatures from county cricketers of the late 1930s, representing teams like Essex, Somerset, Surrey, and Glamorgan.
The Challenge of Authenticity
The album also contains photographs of boxers, including the famous Welsh boxer Jack Petersen. This underscores a common issue faced by autograph collectors: verifying authenticity. The Petersen photograph is a pre-print, meaning the signature is part of the printed image. Some celebrities use rubber stamps or have their secretaries sign for them. The autopen, a device that can replicate signatures quickly, has been a valuable tool for busy celebrities since the late 1940s, with President Kennedy being the first US president to use it extensively.
Given these challenges, it is often recommended to buy autographs from reputable dealers who offer a Certificate of Authenticity. The cricket signatures in this album are genuine, as indicated by doodles on the blank pages, suggesting they were collected by a young boy passionate about cricket and boxing. Curiously, one page is labeled “Russian Dictators,” featuring a pasted picture of Stalin, adding an unexpected element to the collection.
Valuation and Appeal
While these autographs might not fetch a high price, estimated at around £30-£50, they were a steal at the purchase price of £8. They are particularly appealing to collectors of cricket memorabilia and autograph enthusiasts.
