🖊️ How to Spot Fake Autographs: The Collector’s Guide to Authentic Signatures

If you’re a collector, you know the thrill of holding a signed card, jersey, or photo in your hands. Unfortunately, the world of autographs is filled with fakes—and some of them are shockingly convincing.

Don’t let counterfeit signatures drain your wallet or ruin your collection. Whether you’re hunting for a Tom Brady signed helmet, a Michael Jordan rookie auto, or a Pokémon illustrator card signed by the artist, this guide will show you how to spot fake autographs before you buy.

Read on for expert tips—and if you want guaranteed authentic memorabilia, shop our authenticated autographs here.

🎯 1. Look for a Certificate of Authenticity (COA)

A COA is your first line of defense.

• Reputable companies like PSA/DNA, JSA, Beckett, and Fanatics provide COAs with serial numbers you can verify online.

• Be wary of generic COAs from unknown sellers. If the company doesn’t have a website or phone number to confirm authenticity, that’s a red flag.

✅ Tip: On BreakItOpen.com, every signed item comes with a verifiable COA—no guesswork required.

🔍 2. Study Known Authentic Examples

Before buying, compare the signature to confirmed authentic ones:

• Search for images of signed items certified by major authenticators.

• Pay attention to the flow of the signature—many forgeries look shaky or hesitant.

• Check letter shapes, slants, and spacing.

✅ Pro Tip: Repetition matters—fake autographs often have inconsistent pen pressure or sloppy details.

💡 3. Inspect Pen Pressure & Ink

Genuine signatures almost always have:

• Consistent ink flow

• Natural starts and stops

• Clear pen pressure variations

Fake signatures are often traced or stamped, resulting in:

• Even, lifeless lines

• “Bleeding” edges

• Dot patterns if printed

🧐 4. Evaluate Placement and Context

Does the signature make sense?

• Authentic items are usually signed in logical spots—like across the number on a jersey or near the player’s image on a card.

• Beware of signatures placed awkwardly or covering key artwork.

Also, consider the item itself:

• Is the card or photo a legitimate release?

• Has the athlete actually signed items like this before?

🧠 5. Trust Your Gut—And the Seller’s Reputation

When in doubt, ask yourself:

• Does the price feel too good to be true?

• Is the seller well-reviewed?

• Do they stand behind their products with a money-back guarantee?

✅ At BreakItOpen.com, every autograph is backed by our authenticity promise. If you ever have concerns, we’re here to help.

🚀 Shop Authenticated Autographs with Confidence

Building your dream collection should be exciting—not stressful.

Explore our selection of authenticated sports memorabilia, Pokémon collectibles, and limited-edition signed items. Every autograph comes with certification you can trust.

👉 Browse our latest autograph drops here.

🏆 Final Checklist for Spotting Fakes

Before you buy any autograph:
✅ Verify the COA
✅ Compare to known authentic signatures
✅ Check pen pressure and ink
✅ Evaluate placement
✅ Research the seller

By following these steps, you’ll protect your collection and invest in memorabilia you can proudly display.

Happy collecting!