History is fascinating when read in books or seen on film, but nothing has the ability to make history come alive like holding a piece of it in your hands. Autograph collecting is a passion that provides history lovers with the opportunity to own an item (or items) of historical significance. A key to being a successful autograph collector is understanding what factors influence the value of an autograph, letter, document, signature or photograph.

AUTOGRAPHS are letters, manuscripts, documents, or photographs bearing the handwriting of a particular person. Autographs commonly, but not necessarily, bear the signature of that person. Many autograph collectors emphasize the value of the signature, but it is important to remember that signatures are often attached to wonderful documents, letters or photos which enhances the signature's value and significance.

There is an enormous difference in value between a letter written by Harry Truman thanking someone for a birthday gift, and a letter discussing his dismissal of Douglas McArthur. Similarly, a common document such as a land grant signed by James Madison does not carry as much importance as, say, Abraham Lincoln's signed military commission promoting Ulysses S. Grant. CONTENT, therefore, is a significant consideration in determining the value of any autograph. Another consideration is ASSOCIATION, which refers to the recipient's historical notoriety, and connects the events of the day or period of time in the author's life, to the document(s) that bear its date.

The CONDITION of an autograph refers to its overall physical appearance and its appearance relative to its original condition. In assessing condition a collector should note the color of the paper, if the paper is intact, if the item has ever been repaired and if it has, if it has been done with the correct archival material to insure its preservation. Dealers will use shorthand expressions ranging from "excellent," "very fine," "fine," "very good," "good," "fair," and "poor". Each grading is relative as to the age of a piece taking into account the normal wear and tear of the aging process. Obviously a document from the 16th century in fine condition will look more worn than a letter written only a few years ago. Dealers will also add more specific notes as to the condition, including "creases at folds," "tears" "paper loss", "minor foxing" (tiny brown spots), "dampstains", and "toning" (light damage). They also could include details of the signature, whether it is dark, faded, or bold.

Industry standard ABBREVIATIONS and terms as established by the Manuscript Society are used to further describe autographs. For example, ALS refers to an Autograph Letter Signed, TLS refers to a Typed Letter Signed, an SP identifies a Signed Photo, and AMusQS stands for Autograph Musical Quote Signed. Also relevant are size delineations, such as 4to (approximately 8" x 12"), 8vo (approximately 6" x 9"), and 12mo (approximately 4" x 6").

The most important task of any collector and dealer is to ensure that the item or items acquired are AUTHENTIC. The best means to this end is to exclusively buy from reliable dealers who have the skills and expertise to guarantee any purchase, who clearly state terms & conditions of sale, and strictly uphold the ethical standards of the autograph industry regarding professional authentication and responsible sales. Check out the professional associations, read the mission statements, do the research necessary to establish trust with your selected dealer(s). The experience of autograph collecting is borne of a love for history and should not be tainted by forgeries, misrepresentation or ignorance.

An informed autograph collector is more likely to notice the right things and ask the right questions when obtaining items towards a collection. Below is a short bibliography of books that can assist you in furthering your autograph collecting education. North Shore Manuscript Company, Inc. suggests these books as sources of relevant information only and is in no way connected with the sale of any titles listed. The more you know, the better NSMC can serve you. We always look forward to assisting you in any way possible. Thank you for visiting and please contact us with any questions or comments.