A Guide to Framed Baseball Memorabilia

There are many considerations when deciding to collect, or give as a gift, framed baseball memorabilia.  First and foremost, of course, is ensuring that what you are buying carries a real signature if an autographed piece is what you’re after.  If the signature is authentic then there should be a certificate of authenticity issued by a reputable firm such as those featured here at Diamond Autographs.

Before embarking on your search to purchase just the right item, be sure to do your research into values.  Many collectors go straight to eBay without checking on the reputation and service level of the authenticator who has ‘certified’ the piece or rendered an opinion. Remember if the deal sounds too good to be true it probably is. There are many fraudulent dealers who sell ‘as is’,  so be wise to their ways.  Check feedback and see what else they’ve sold.

Educate Yourself

Study card pricing guides like  Sports Card Market Report magazine to understand who may be more popular currently. Current popularity will, of course, influence price.

The number of options you have is wide ranging, but don’t let it scare you.  True baseball fans will appreciate anything signed by a well-known player past or present and the price range is a wide one.  Framed baseball memorabilia featuring lesser stars can be had for less than $50.  A Nolan Ryan autographed baseball contained in a small showcase runs around $100.   Rare pieces from the early 20th century featuring Babe Ruth or Lou Gehrig autographs (or those of other vintage Hall of Famers) can run into the thousands.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the seller. Where did they get the item? Was it in person? Where and when? Who authenticated it and does it have a serial number or a tamper proof hologram?

Companies will sometimes provide a notarized affidavit showing a representative of the company witnessed the signing, although that’s typically done only in private signing situations involving well known stars.

Authentically autographed sports memorabilia is always of more value and more coveted by collectors and of course a frame will help protect your investment while making it much more attractive for display.  You might consider buying something unframed and adding your own touch by matting it and framing it yourself.  Local frame shops and craft retailers like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby often run specials on framing.  Make sure you have enough room on your wall to fit the piece, once it’s framed.

There are so many items to choose from, signed bats, jerseys, balls, cards, and photos to name just a very few. Do a bit of a study to decide just what is right for you. Then venture forth with confidence armed with the information you have found allowing you to make your choice in an informed manner.