Buying and Selling Autographs through Auction Houses - By: David Thoreau

Auction houses can be a great way to acquire and sell autographs. There are many hardworking and reputable auction houses in business for many years with impeccable reputations. Many of these auction houses offer collectors some of the finest autographs. However, there are potential pitfalls with unscrupulous auction houses that the consignor should know. Here are some of the fine points of concern:

- What is the track record of the autograph house?
Review websites of autograph collecting organizations to assess the reputation of the auctioneer or dealer you are considering for buying or selling your autographs.

- Carefully review details of the contract.
Some auction houses require that any dispute, including autographs that are later found to be fraudulent, must be litigated in the laws of the state that they conduct business. Ask yourself: Do you really want to travel to the auctioneer's state to litigate your dispute?

- Affiliations with professional autograph organizations.
Adding reputable autograph organizations to an auctions houses reference page may give the impression of credibility. Many autograph organizations are reluctant to become involved in business disputes; especially if one of their biggest advertisers is the subject of your dispute. In many cases, you must be a member of the autograph organization to submit a complaint and request for assistance.

- Recourse through governmental licensing offices.
Don’t count on the governmental agencies that license autograph auction houses to resolve your dispute. Auction licensing divisions of many state governments require you to appear at a hearing at their office when a claim is reviewed.

- Who owns the auction house?
Beware of auction houses that are legally owned by a spouse or family member. This legal shield makes it difficult to seek redress in the event of fraud.

- Documentation.
When sending your autographs to an auction house be sure to obtain documented delivery since some unethical auction houses will deny receipt of merchandise.

Some of the best autographs are consigned to auction houses with impeccable reputations for integrity and honesty. However, use due diligence and careful investigation when selling your autographs through an auction house to protect you and your autographs.

Reputable auction houses can be a great way to acquire and sell autographs. But be wary of unscrupulous auction houses with their many pitfalls. Here are the red flags to guide you.

The website AutographAlert is highly recommended for information about autograph dealers and autograph auction houses. This website provides a referral to an attorney for individuals who believe they may have been harmed by the practices of RRauction.