How much do you rely on TPAs for an auto u own?

[GrayGhost]

For me, it’s studying known good sigs and making a decision based on my thoughts and the photos. Seems many want only TPA stuff? How bout u guys?

[Steve D]

For me, the third-party authentication is a definite plus, but by itself, it really means nothing.

I look at the signature and compare it to others I know or feel are authentic; if it doesn't look good to me, then I pass on it, regardless of whether or not it has third-party authentication.

Yes, there are signatures that I won't even consider buying unless they've been authenticated, but I pass up a lot of "atypical" signatures that have been authenticated, even by the top companies, simply because they don't look like I think they should.

I guess, in a nutshell, it comes down to "Eye Appeal"; if the item doesn't have it on it's own, no third-party authentication is going to provide it.

Steve

[Duluth Eskimo]

For the most part, it means nothing to me. 99% of my personal collection has no authentication. For most collectors and buyers, it means everything. It’s hard to sell an item that is not already authenticated. That is part of the reason some autograph dealers have got out of the business. Like it or not, they’re here to stay.

Most of the autographs I buy for resale are not “authenticated” by a third party, but most I sell are. People are willing to pay up for it, so you just have to build it in to the price. It’s sad but true.

[steve B]

I don't have many at all, and none are authenticated.

They're also mostly all cheap, so my really basic feeling of if the item and overall way I find it and whether it makes any sense works so far.

If I was planning on spending a lot of money I'd really want to learn a lot about that specific item before buying. I follow some of the threads, and after a few years, I'm still only at about 50% on some common ones. So not spending big bucks on anything yet...

I should correct that, some of the ones in a collection I bought have random certs, usually from a show or appearance.

[Scott Garner]

I have a few items that are PSA slabbed (3-4), but none of these were submitted by me, FWIW.

[perezfan]

TPG means very little to me as well. I have seen them make obvious mistakes... most glaringly with the signed T206 debacle about a year ago. I don't buy an autographed piece unless I am personally comfortable with it (TPG or no).

But unfortunately, the market seems to dictate that TPG is necessary when selling an item. Of the last 10 autographed items I've consigned to auction, the Auction House has insisted I pay for TPG, as part of the agreement... 9 times out of the ten!

Having the TPG Letter accompany the item makes it far easier for them to sell, absolves them of any liability, and realizes a higher price. So I fully understand why they insist upon it. I just don't like the fact that it's deemed necessary... not to mention the additional cost involved. All part of the game, I suppose.