10 Most Forged Celebrity and Historical Autographs
Collectors love autographs. And it's not just sports. The realms of pop culture, history and politics have plenty of highly sought after signatures. Unfortunately, that Elvis Presley autograph you bought at the flea market is probably fake.
PSA/DNA has released a list of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Historical and Entertainment Autographs, highlighting some of the most forged signatures that the authentication company sees.
The names on the list include actors, singers, politicians and more. Tough to find in their own right, collectors should be extra careful when considering buying autographs from these names. That said, it's always wise to buy from reputable dealers. Third-party authentication from the likes of PSA/DNA or JSA is also important, especially when dealing in high-end autographs where a lot of money could be lost with a careless mistake.
In its report, PSA/DNA also notes that some of the autographs they see come from secretaries and employees hired to oversee fan mail. Although not authentic, these signatures shouldn't be seen as fraudulent either. That said, there are few assistants people would want autographs from.
Below is PSA/DNA's complete list of most dangerous autographs -- those that they see a high percentage of fakes, often 50% or more. We have also included the company's estimated values for authentic autographs.
Most Forged Celebrity and Historical Signatures
1. Elvis Presley
More than three decades after his death, Presley is iconic as ever. After dying very young, there are actually very few Elvis Presley signatures available on the market -- at least real ones. PSA/DNA notes that the problem of fake Elvis Presley autographs is a global issue with many coming from Europe, especially Germany and the Netherlands.
Value:
- Cut Signature $1,500
- Signed Contract or Letter $35,000+
2. The Beatles
An autograph from any one of the Fab Four is highly desirable. Getting the complete quartet on a single item is one of the collecting crown jewels of the 20th century. Unfortunately, the Beatles are also one of the most forged signatures.
Value:
- Cut Signature $5,000
- Signed Photo $15,000
3. Neil Armstrong
Prior to his passing in 2012, Neil Armstrong's autograph was extremely rare. He was a reluctant signer for many years. Being the first man on the moon, there's a lot of historical importance to his signature. Demand far outpaces supply, resulting in huge amounts for authentic Neil Armstrong autographs.
Value:
- Cut Signature $1,500
- Signed Photo $5,000
4. John F. Kennedy
One of the most iconic presidents of all-time, his signature covers many areas of collecting. Many alleged JFK autographs come from autopens and secretary signatures signed while he was an elected official.
Value:
- Cut Signature $1,750
- Presidential Letter or Document $25,000
5. Michael Jackson
When Michael Jackson passed away suddenly in 2009, demand for his autograph skyrocketed. So did the number of fakes on the market. Use extreme caution when it comes to buying signed items from the King of Pop.
Value:
- Cut Signature $350
- Signed Photo $1,000
6. Marilyn Monroe
Few actresses have the mystique surrounding them as Marilyn Monroe. Her marriage to Joe DiMaggio also connects her, although loosely, to the sports market. Because of her early passing, few authentic Marilyn Monroe autographs are out there.
Value:
- Cut Signature $2,500
- Signed Photo $15,000
7. Jim Morrison
Like many on this list, Jim Morrison died far too young. The lead singer for The Doors, Morrison was just 27 was he passed away in 1971. As a result, the supply of authentic signatures is quite low.
Value:
- Cut Signature $1,500
- Signed Photo $4,500
8. Jimi Hendrix
Similar to Morrison, Jimi Hendrix is another rock legend who find fame in the late-60s. The guitar master also died at the age of 27. According to PSA/DNA, Hendrix's signature is even rarer than Morrison's.
Value:
- Cut Signature $2,500
- Signed Photo $7,500
9. Walt Disney
We can thank Walt Disney for all those videos and DVDs that line the shelves of many homes. His vision of a theme park is the focal point of millions of family vacations each year. Fake Walt Disney autographs are also far too common on the secondary market. With his distinct penmanship making up the logo of one of the world's most recognizable companies, it further adds to the intrigue of Disney's signature.
Value:
- Cut Signature $750
- Signed Photo $3,500
10. Judy Garland
A big part of Hollywood's Golden Age, Judy Garland will forever be remembered for her role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. Be careful if you're considering adding her signature to your collection.
Value:
- Cut Signature $350
- Signed Photo $2,000
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