Collecting Autographs Through the Mail

You might think autographs from famous people are impossible to obtain these days, but there are ways to add to your collection without spending lots of money on a dealer or auction. If you know where to look and where to send requests, collecting autographs through the mail can help build your collection of signed memorabilia.

It is true that some actors, athletes, and politicians may refrain from signing photos and letters - the popularity of Internet auctions have led to many people trying to sell such items. While auctions are useful if you're searching for a rare signature or an autographed from a deceased celebrity, you may still have luck approaching your favorite movie stars and baseball players with a polite request and return postage.

These days, some celebrities charge for their autographs. Conventions and specialized autograph shows around the country feature a multitude of TV and movie stars, pop stars from the sixties and seventies, and even retired pro wrestlers. Visit any of their tables and you might find stacks of glossy photos available for sale...perhaps the autograph is free in that deal! This may be worth the money if you want a particular autograph, but if you are serious about your collection here are a few tips to try:

Subscribe to an Autograph Community or Magazine: There are periodicals available which feature thousands of genuine addresses of celebrities. When you subscribe to a celebrity autograph directory like StarTiger.com or Autograph Collector, you can read up on the protocol to contact the famous person of your choice. There are also many books about collecting autographs in print that can guide you.

You're likely to have better results if you include return postage with your request, and take caution if you wish to send a rare item through the mail. You want to be certain it will come back to you.

Leave an Item at a Venue: A friend who wanted autographs from his favorite band learned a trick. The day before a scheduled concert, he went to the venue with a copy of the band's CD and a return envelope with postage. He asked the venue manager to take the CD back to the band for signing, and about a week later he receive the package back...autographed! This friend checked the signatures with an authority, and they were determined to be genuine.

Before you try this tactic, however, check with the venue where your favorite performer will appear. Different arenas may have policies that prohibit bringing items backstage.

Check Websites and Social Media: Thanks to Twitter and Facebook, more celebrities are social with the masses. You might find they are more willing than others to autograph items. Check official websites of celebrities and look for contact information - a form, e-mail, etc. Some book authors, for example, are willing to send an autographed book plate if you send a SASE.