Authenticity Explained
Buying signed memorabilia should be exciting—not confusing. Whether you are an experienced collector or just entering the hobby, understanding authentication helps you know what you are buying and why the details matter.
What is autograph authentication?
Authentication is the process used to determine whether a signature is genuine. Depending on the item, this may happen at the time the autograph is signed or later through examination by experienced autograph authenticators.
Once an item is authenticated, it will generally receive a uniquely numbered, tamper-evident hologram. Depending on the authentication provider, it may also include a certificate of authenticity, letter of authenticity or online verification record.
Witnessed authentication
At a witnessed signing, an approved representative is present when the athlete signs the item. The authentication hologram is then applied as part of the controlled signing process. This creates a direct link between the signature, the item and the signing event.
Expert examination
Some autographs are authenticated after they have been signed. Experienced authenticators examine the signature and compare characteristics such as letter formation, spacing, flow and consistency against established reference examples. The item is certified only if it meets the authenticator’s standards.
Who authenticates our memorabilia?
Depending on the individual item, authentication may be provided by respected names within the memorabilia industry, including:
- Beckett Authentication Services
- James Spence Authentication (JSA)
- PSA/DNA
- Fanatics Authentic
- Upper Deck Authenticated
- Schwartz Sports Memorabilia
Some of these companies provide independent third-party examination, while others run controlled athlete signings and authenticate items obtained through those events. Each product listing clearly identifies the authentication provider attached to that particular item.
Holograms, certification numbers and paperwork
An authenticated item will usually carry a tamper-evident hologram with a unique certification number. This number connects the physical item to the authenticator’s records and, where available, can be checked through the provider’s official verification system.
The accompanying paperwork varies between providers. Some items include a small certificate of authenticity, while others may include a more detailed letter of authenticity. In some cases, the numbered hologram and online record form the primary authentication.
Never remove or alter an authentication hologram. Doing so can break the connection between the item and its certification record.
How to verify an item
- Locate the authentication hologram or certification number shown on the item.
- Identify the authentication provider named in the product listing or accompanying paperwork.
- Use the provider’s official verification service where one is available.
- Confirm that the certification number and item description match the memorabilia you are viewing.
Our product listings include the authenticator, certification number and a direct verification link whenever one is available.
Left: Dennis Rodman custom jersey. Right: Scottie Pippen officially licensed Mitchell & Ness jersey.
Custom jerseys versus licensed jerseys
The authenticity of an autograph and the type of jersey it appears on are two separate things. A genuine, professionally authenticated signature may appear on either a custom jersey or an officially licensed retail jersey.
What is a custom jersey?
A custom jersey is an unbranded, non-licensed display jersey. It is generally made in the player’s familiar colours and number but does not carry official league, team or manufacturer branding.
Custom jerseys are commonly used throughout the autograph memorabilia industry because they provide a clean signing and display surface while keeping the finished piece more affordable. They allow collectors to place more of the purchase price into the autograph, authentication and presentation rather than the cost of an officially licensed retail jersey.
A custom jersey is not represented as official team merchandise, game-worn, player-worn or match-issued. Every Locker Room Memorabilia listing clearly states when an item is a custom jersey.
What is a licensed jersey?
A licensed jersey is produced by an authorised manufacturer such as Mitchell & Ness and may include official team branding, league marks, manufacturer tags and other retail details. Licensed jerseys generally carry a higher base cost because of their branding, construction and licensing.
For some collectors, those official details are an important part of the piece. Others prefer a custom jersey because the signature and display are their main priorities. Neither option changes whether the autograph itself is genuine—the authentication attached to the signature is what establishes that.
Authenticated does not mean game-worn
Authentication confirms the autograph. It does not automatically mean the item was worn or used by the athlete.
Terms such as game-worn, player-worn, game-used and match-issued describe the history of the underlying item and require their own supporting provenance. Unless a listing specifically states otherwise, our signed jerseys are sold as display memorabilia and are not represented as having been worn by the player.
Our authenticity promise
Every signed item sold by Locker Room Memorabilia is authenticated by a trusted, established authentication provider. Each listing identifies the authenticator, certification number, item type and any accompanying documentation, so you can feel confident you’re buying the real deal.
If you ever have a question about the authentication or format of an item, contact us before purchasing. We are always happy to explain exactly what is included.
