Many humans often create memories and bury them deep so they can always recall and appreciate them. This is what makes life interesting for many people as they love to reminisce on past events and people including sports heroes.
This is the reason why sports memorabilia are in existence to make you remember the heroes in sport. Today, there are numerous sports memorabilia being sold on the market at affordable prices. However, the issue now is; how do you verify and buy authentic sports memorabilia online?
There have been repeated cases of sports entrepreneurs selling fake sports memorabilia to unsuspecting buyers. If you are a sports lover or have a sports hero that you would love to have his or her memorabilia – then, you should know how to obtain to authenticate one and how you can get it online.
This is what we will be covering in this article. But first, how do you spot fake sports memorabilia and verify authenticity? Let is find out.
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How to Spot a Fake Sports Memorabilia and Verify Authenticity
There are several ways you can spot and verify sports memorabilia before you get them. This is important so that you are not handed a fake one.
The Memorabilia is Too Cheap
Some sports stores can be quite competitive with their prices that they sell their items way below the prices other merchants are selling. However, if the memorabilia offered to you is given to you at a price too ridiculous to be true, check the authenticity of the products you are offered. There is a high probability you are being offered a fake one.
The Venue of The Signing
You have to inquire about the venue where the memorabilia was signed. Most sports heroes and celebrities carry out signings at organized events and in public. These sports heroes also involve their management, and their signings often come with official stamps. If the product is not signed at an official event or does not come with a stamp in some cases, it is likely a fake one.
Certificate of Authenticity or Relevant Government Certificates
You have to be worried if the merchant selling to you has no Certificate of Authenticity or relevant government certificates. If the merchant has and is not willing to show it, he or she is probably afraid of his or her certificate being revoked. This means he is not being clear and honest in dealing with you.
Even if there are relevant certificates, you still have to verify the memorabilia offered to you. However, there is a higher probability you won’t be given a fake one when it comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Popular and Recognized Sports Stores are Better
Popular sports stores are better if you want to get sports memorabilia in honour of your favorite sports hero, since they have more to lose. The less popular ones may also sell the original products – but to be on the safe side, you have to get it from the popular ones whose products have been verified.
They should also have good reviews from old customers. You have a lower likelihood of getting fake items if you go with this option. Check out this extensive list of sports memorabilia stores to find reputable stores to buy from.
Verify the Items with a Relevant Government Agency
Some agencies and groups verify memorabilia. The Australian Memorabilia Association is one of these agencies, situated in Australia. You can ask the merchant that you would love to send the items or item across to the organization for verification if you are not sure about the product.
A good merchant who knows the worth of his goods wouldn’t disagree with your request. Send it to the organization and verify before buying.
How about buying from online Vendors? How do you go about it?
Buying Sports Memorabilia Online
If you are getting the items from online vendors, you have to be extra careful and adhere to all the precautions that have been mentioned earlier. Also, you have to insist on a money-back guarantee in case they insist you buy it first before verification. This serves as a protection for you as it gives you the capacity to return the product if there is a flaw.
To ensure you don’t experience any hassles later on, buy from a popular and trusted online merchant, and do your verification. To buy online, you do your research and ask relevant questions first.
You can also compare the prices and authenticity of the online merchants before making your choice. This will ensure you get the best price available. When you are satisfied, make your order and wait for it to get processed before making payment.
You can choose the option of home delivery of the items you bought or go to one of the merchant outlets to get the items you ordered and processed.