Autograph collecting may be specialized. For example, an autograph may document the life of a person or illuminate a certain field of endeavor like music.

Some collectors collect for sentimental reasons, some for historical reason, to some it is a hobby and for some it is a passion. If a collector idolizes or has a great deal of interest in writers, actresses, athletes, politicians, or even scientists, starting an autograph collection is a great way to share in their lives.

Furthermore an autograph can be more valuable if it's with a personalized message to a fellow celebrity or intimate friend, has a thank you message of some sort. Possibly for working together on an award-winning film.

One of the most highly prized is a signed personal letter or document which gives insight into a celebrity's personality or reveals a previously unknown historical fact and the more personal the information, the more valuable the document.

That's why there are autographs, arguably the most popular type of celebrity souvenir. They are quick and easy to write, fun to collect, relatively easy to obtain and there are technical methods of authentication, like examining watermarks and ink composition.

With the recent enormous growth of autograph sellers on eBay, and the appearance of a multitude of new galleries and retailers offering expensive autographs, casual autograph collectors have sought "certificates of authenticity" issued by the seller at the time of sale. Unfortunately, these certificates are only as dependable as the seller issuing them.

Consequently, potential autograph buyers uncertain of the legitimacy of an autograph are now looking for sellers who offer an unconditional money back guarantee of authenticity.

On the other hand do not automatically dismiss an autograph which does not appear authentic. Some celebrities had artistically styled public signatures for publicity purposes. That is a signiture that might be seen on an album cover might be their extra fancy autograph and their real signature might be much more pedestrian. Also, an autograph might be scribbled, abbreviated, or just initials or it might be their full name depending on the location the autograph was received and how much time the celebrity had to sign autographs. This is why at least one autograph dealer uses his young children to get autographs, knowing that many celebrities will stop and sign for a child.

Unfortunately, either by hand or with the use of a machine or stamp signatures are easy to fake. The best defense is education. There are many autograph dealers who offer authentication services as well as autograph example guides. Do as much homework as you can on prices for comparable autographs.

Real collectors find so much joy and fun in autograph collecting that they don't let a bad experience deter them from the hobby. In addition the challenge to get another autograph is always there.