Autographed baseball cards are an extremely popular collectible item that can be found for sale on eBay. Getting a card signed by a famous baseball player adds significant value and nostalgia for many collectors. With the popularity of autographed memorabilia has also come the proliferation of forged signatures. It is important for buyers to be wary and do their research to avoid spending money on fake autographs.
One of the biggest names in autographed baseball cards is Babe Ruth. Given his status as perhaps the most famous baseball player of all time, Ruth autographed cards in near mint to mint condition can fetch astronomical prices when they pop up for auction on eBay. In 2021, a 1923 Babe Ruth autograph card sold for an astounding $5.2 million, setting a new record. While most people cannot afford cards in that condition signed by Ruth, there is still a huge market for his signed cards from other eras even if in poorer shape. Buyers need to be extremely careful, as Ruth autographs are also some of the most frequently forged.
Another player whose autographed cards can sell for high prices is Mickey Mantle. Like Ruth, Mantle is considered one of the all-time greats and his autograph holds significant collectible value. On eBay, Mantle autographed cards from the 1950s regularly sell in the thousands of dollars even for well-worn copies in poor condition, while near-mint copies can reach six figures. However, Mantle autographs are also widely forged, so buyers need to work with reputable dealers and get authentication from professional authenticators like PSA/DNA to be sure of what they are getting.
For collectors looking to acquire modern autographed cards without spending thousands, there are plenty of options on eBay involving current stars or recent retirees. Players like Mike Trout, Clayton Kershaw, Albert Pujols, Derek Jeter, and David Ortiz have a strong autographed memorabilia market and their signed cards can often be found for a few hundred dollars or less depending on the exact player, year, and condition of the card. Autographs from these more recent stars are less frequently forged than the legends, so with a little research buyers can find authentic additions to their collections.
Whether buying vintage stars like Ruth and Mantle or modern greats, there are several tips collectors should keep in mind when shopping for autographed baseball cards on eBay:
Only buy from sellers with a lengthy history of positive feedback. Newer sellers without much feedback could be using fake accounts to peddle forgeries.
Ask the seller for a Certificate of Authenticity from a reputable authenticator like PSA/DNA, JSA, or Beckett. If they cannot provide proof of authentication, be very wary of the autograph’s authenticity.
Inspect photos closely. Reputable sellers will provide multiple high-quality images of the autograph and card from different angles. Signs of tampering or uneven ink could indicate a forgery.
Check for pricing consistency. If a “Ruth” autograph is far below market value of a real one, it’s likely too good to be true. Same goes for cards signed by players that don’t typically sign memorabilia.
Consider having an autograph authenticated after purchase, especially for high-end cards. Services like PSA/DNA will inspect the autograph and provide a authenticated or counterfeit designation for a fee.
Beware of auctions with multiple autographed cards from the same seller. Forgeries are often sold in bulk to make a profit. Stick with individual cards.
Research the player’s actual autograph. Signatures can vary but forgers often miss subtle details. Knowing what to look for helps identify fakes.
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. While deals can be found, super rare autographed cards tend not to just be given away below fair market value.
With the right precautions and research, collectors can find authentic and affordable autographed baseball cards to add to their collections from the vast selection available on eBay daily. Just be wary of deals that seem suspicious and only purchase from established sellers who can prove an autograph’s legitimacy. Taking the proper steps helps ensure collectors don’t waste money on forgeries when bidding on signed memorabilia from their favorite players. Autographed cards verify an item’s authenticity so buyers can enjoy displaying pieces of baseball history with confidence for years to come.
