by Lydia Cooper
There are two main reasons for collecting film star autographs; as a fascinating hobby or with the intention of making money from it. Whichever one is applicable there will always be an element of fun for you. Irrespective of the reason for either being or wanting to be a collector, most of us have a favourite film star but are probably resigned to never meeting them. Admiration for a star and their work is the collecting of autographs, for whatever reason.
If you are just starting out on this new adventure, you will soon realise that collecting film star autographs encompasses a vast and varied market. It is advisable to concentrate your efforts on a particular aspect of film and obtain as thorough knowledge of it as possible.
You know when there’s a star, like in show business, the star has her name in lights on the marquee! Right? And the star gets the money because the people come to see the star, right? Well, I’m the star, and all of you are in the chorus.
— Babe Didrikson Zaharias (1911–1956)
You will perhaps want to analyse the reason why you to want to collect film star autographs. For example, are you interested in a particular male or female star, an era in the industry such as silent films, or a type of film such as a western or epic? This is just scratching the surface and you probably by now have reached the same conclusion. Therefore, take some time out and review exactly what is attracting you to this particular hobby. Once you have decided which aspect of collecting film star autographs you wish to pursue, you can now face the next challenge.
If you have not guessed already, you are going to need a great deal of patience, effort, tenacity and innovation to help you achieve your ambitions in this hobby. Now that you have decided on which particular aspect of collecting you are going to concentrate on, the next question to think about is how you will go about getting your film star autographs.
If you do not live within easy reach of where your favourite star lives or where the studios are located, then you must consider alternative strategies. The Internet currently is your obvious answer and starting point. Most websites will provide you with biographies and photographs of film stars, so make sure you get to know them. Visit the websites of reputable dealers and view the potential for buying the autographs of your chosen stars. From these sites a great deal of information is available to you and they will be pleased to give you advice. You could also benefits from joining collector's forums, associations and use them to exchange views, experiences and gain knowledge from all over the world.
Our star was brighter perhaps when it had water in it.
Now there is no question even of that, but only
Of holding on to the hard earth so as not to get thrown off,
With an occasional dream, a vision ...
— John Ashbery (b. 1927)
Now a word of warning regarding dealers and any other person or media you may encounter during your searches for autographs. This is a huge and lucrative market, worth literally billions of dollars. As in any marketplace, there are those who make a very good living from trapping the unwary into parting with their money. Look out for that "special offer" or "cheap price" as reputable and genuine dealers do not have to offer "specials". They know their market and the value of the products they are selling!
If you are looking for genuine film star autographs then look no further than Genuine Memorabilia. For more information please