The Value of a Signature: Buying and Selling Autographs at Auction

The tradition of collecting signatures dates back many years, with early enthusiasts writing to actors, explorers and politicians in hopes of a personal reply. Over time, signed photographs, programmes, and memorabilia became highly sought-after keepsakes. Today, autographs remain a powerful and popular area of collecting, especially when they’re tied to a specific event, film, performance, or achievement.

At Auctioneum, we’ve seen a fascinating array of signed items in our autograph and memorabilia auctions; from golden age film stars and British comedy icons to NASA astronauts and modern pop culture legends. Some may sell for more modest sums while others attract fierce bidding, fetching high prices under the hammer, but each and every one tells a story.

What Makes an Autograph Valuable?

The value of an autograph isn’t just about the name at the bottom of the page. Rarity, context, presentation and origin all play a part in determining what a signature might be worth. A signature on a plain card might fetch a smaller sum, but a signed photo, sketch, or personal letter—especially one with a story—can fetch a much higher price.

Here are a few factors collectors and sellers should keep in mind:

• Rarity: Signatures from celebrities who rarely signed items, passed away young, or were known to be reclusive tend to be more valuable.
• Medium: A signature on an iconic photo or original object (e.g., a prop or poster) is usually more desirable than one on plain paper.
• Condition: Creases, fading, or smudging can affect the appeal and price of a signed item.
• Authenticity: Collectors look for items with strong provenance or certificates of authenticity, ideally from a recognised source.

How to Preserve and Protect Signed Memorabilia

Whether you’re a dedicated collector or have inherited something special, keeping an autograph in good condition is essential. Here are a few tips:

• Avoid direct light: UV light fades ink quickly, so display signed items away from windows and use UV-protective glass if framing.
• Store carefully: Keep items in acid-free sleeves or archival boxes to prevent deterioration.
• Keep provenance: Any letters of authenticity, receipts, or correspondence related to the item should be kept with it—they add crucial value.

How to Tell if an Autograph Is Genuine

With the popularity of autographs comes a thriving market in fakes. Thankfully, there are ways to spot signs of authenticity:

• Look at the ink: Fountain pen or felt-tip ink tends to show natural pressure variation and slight smudging on older items—signs of genuine hand signing.
• Compare examples: Authentic signatures often vary slightly, while printed or machine-signed ones can look overly uniform.
• Use trusted experts: Auction houses like Auctioneum can help verify authenticity, especially when the item has no certificate.

Notable Autograph Sales at Auctioneum

We’ve handled an exciting range of signed items over the years. Here are just a few highlights from recent auctions:

Stan Laurel (Laurel & Hardy) – Vintage Autographed Photograph

A sepia-toned 5x7" photo signed neatly by Stan Laurel in blue ink, with a stamped signature from Oliver Hardy—a common occurrence when fans wrote directly to Laurel. Despite minor wear, the image displayed beautifully.
Sold for £170

1950s Cricket Autograph Album

A treasure trove of mid-century cricket signatures, featuring complete squads from county and international teams including South Africa, Somerset, Yorkshire, and the West Indies. A well-preserved piece of sporting history.

Sold for £130

Apollo 13 – Jack Swigert Signed NASA Photo

An original 8x10" NASA mission card signed by astronaut Jack Swigert, command module pilot on the historic Apollo 13 mission. Rare and undedicated, this was a standout piece for space collectors.
Sold for £210

Bob Kane – Batman Sketch and Signed Limited Edition Print

A dynamic signed display featuring a hand-drawn Batman sketch by co-creator Bob Kane and a limited edition print, both signed and professionally framed.

Sold for £250

James Bond – Charles Gray as Blofeld Signed Photo

A rare signed black-and-white 8x10" photo of Charles Gray in his iconic role as Blofeld from Diamonds Are Forever, with character name added.

Sold for £185

James Bond – Daniel Craig Signed Photo

A more modern entry, this signed 8x10" colour photograph of Daniel Craig as James Bond came framed with a certificate of authenticity.

Sold for £42

Only Fools & Horses – David Jason + Cast Signed Van Door

One of the more unusual items we’ve handled—an exact replica of the Trotter Van rear door signed by Sir David Jason and 19 other cast members. With Jason’s classic “Lovely Jubbly!” catchphrase included, this was a true collector’s piece.

Sold for £1,600

Aardman – Peter Lord Hand-Drawn Morph Sketch

A charming original sketch of Morph with a birthday cake, drawn and signed by Aardman co-founder Peter Lord—delighting fans of classic British animation.

Sold for £230

Classic Hollywood Autographs Collection

A small group of autographs including signed photos from Ginger Rogers and Betty Hutton, alongside a printed signature from Marilyn Maxwell.

Sold for £46

Interested in Buying Or Selling An Autograph at Auction? 

Whether you’ve inherited a signed photograph, found an autograph tucked away in an old programme, or you picked something up years ago at a fan event, it may well be worth more than you realise. At Auctioneum, we offer free valuations and expert advice to help you understand the potential value of your autographs—whether you’re considering selling or simply curious about what you own.

Likewise, if you’re looking to build your own autograph collection or secure a signature from a specific figure, our regular sales offer a wide variety of signed items across film, sport, music, history and more. With provenance and authenticity always a priority, you can bid with confidence and find something truly meaningful.

If you’d like to have your autographs valued or register interest in upcoming sales, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team or come along to one of our valuation events. We’d be delighted to help you discover the story—and the worth—behind the signature.