How to Spot Fake Memorabilia & Avoid Scams: The Ultimate Guide by Sevyn Collectibles

Collecting memorabilia is one of the most thrilling hobbies, whether it’s rare sports collectibles, vintage movie posters, or autographed pieces from iconic musicians. But with great value comes great risk—counterfeit items have unfortunately flooded the market. So, how do you separate the genuine gems from the fakes?

At Sevyn Collectibles, founded by Yashas Newar, we believe every collector deserves authentic, high-quality memorabilia. Here’s your ultimate guide to spotting fake memorabilia and making smarter, safer purchases.

1. Trust Your Sources

Who you buy from matters. A reputable dealer like Sevyn Collectibles has a solid track record of offering authentic memorabilia with a transparent return policy. Avoid unverified sellers or online auctions that lack clear authenticity guarantees.

2. Check the Certificate of Authenticity (COA)

A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) is crucial, but not all COAs are legitimate. Fake COAs often have incorrect fonts, spelling errors, or blurry logos. Always verify that the COA comes from a trusted authentication service or the manufacturer.

3. Examine Signatures Carefully

Autographed memorabilia is highly valuable but frequently counterfeited. Look up authentic signature examples online and check the flow of the ink. Genuine signatures are fluid and consistent, while fake ones may have uneven strokes or mismatched ink.

4. Research Provenance

Provenance, an item’s history, plays a crucial role in its authenticity. Ask for a detailed history of the memorabilia. If the seller can’t provide provenance or documentation, it’s a red flag. At Sevyn Collectibles, every item is thoroughly vetted for authenticity.

5. Know Your Item’s Details

Fake memorabilia often lacks authentic details such as proper stitching, labels or holograms. Research specific product features and compare them with verified authentic versions. Items like game-worn jerseys or limited-edition collectibles will have unique identifiers.

6. Use Technology to Your Advantage

Technology can be a powerful tool in verifying memorabilia. Holograms, serial numbers and authentication databases can help validate items. Some services allow you to cross-check autographs and holograms for legitimacy.

7. Check the Price

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine memorabilia, especially rare collectibles, has a price that reflects its authenticity and scarcity. Scammers often lure buyers with unrealistically low prices for fake items. Always compare prices across multiple sources.

8. Trust Your Instincts

Your gut feeling is important. If a deal feels rushed, sketchy, or too secretive, take a step back. At Sevyn Collectibles, we ensure every item is thoroughly authenticated so collectors can shop with confidence.

Conclusion

The world of collecting memorabilia is exciting, but it’s crucial to stay informed and vigilant to avoid scams. By following these steps and trusting experts like Yashas Newar and Sevyn Collectibles, you can confidently build an authentic and valuable collection.

At Sevyn Collectibles, we are dedicated to providing collectors with only the finest, thoroughly vetted pieces. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, we’ve got your back.

Happy collecting! Remember, it’s not just about the item, it’s about the story it tells.