Selling & Consignment
How do I sell or consign my autographed items?
We're always interested in acquiring quality autographed memorabilia. To sell or consign items with us, please contact our team with photos and details about what you have. We'll evaluate your items and discuss the best options for selling or consigning them through Empire Autographs.
How is the value of an autograph determined?
Autograph values are determined by several factors including the fame and historical significance of the signer, the rarity of the signature, the condition of the item, the type of memorabilia (photo, document, jersey, etc.), and current market demand. Our expert appraisers evaluate all these factors to provide fair valuations.
How long does the appraisal process take?
The appraisal process typically takes 5-10 business days depending on the complexity of the items and our current workload. For items requiring additional research or authentication, the process may take longer. We'll keep you updated throughout the appraisal process.
Do you buy unsigned memorabilia?
While our primary focus is on autographed items, we may consider purchasing unsigned memorabilia in certain cases, particularly if it's rare, historically significant, or from notable figures. Please contact us with details about what you have, and we'll let you know if it's something we're interested in acquiring.
Shipping & Returns
How are items shipped and packaged?
We take great care in packaging all items to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. Each piece is carefully wrapped in protective materials and placed in a sturdy box. For high-value items, we use additional padding and protective measures. All shipments are tracked so you can monitor your order's progress.
Do you offer insurance on shipments?
Yes, we offer shipping insurance for all orders. Insurance is automatically included on high-value items, and you can add additional coverage for any order. This protects your investment in case of loss or damage during transit.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship to many countries worldwide. International shipping rates and delivery times vary depending on the destination. Please contact us for a shipping quote to your location, and we'll provide details about customs, duties, and any additional requirements.
How long does shipping take?
Domestic shipping typically takes 3-7 business days depending on your location and the shipping method selected. International shipping can take 2-4 weeks depending on the destination country and customs processing. Expedited shipping options are available for most orders.
Buying & Ordering
What categories of autographs do you carry?
Empire Autographs specializes in a wide range of autographed memorabilia including sports figures, entertainment personalities, historical figures, and more. Our inventory spans multiple categories to serve collectors with diverse interests. Browse our collections to explore the specific categories we currently have in stock.
Can I request a specific autograph or item?
Yes! We welcome special requests. If you're looking for a specific autograph or item that isn't currently in our inventory, please contact us with details about what you're seeking. Our team will do their best to locate it for you. We have extensive connections in the autograph community and can often source hard-to-find items.
Do you offer layaway or payment plans?
We offer flexible payment options for qualified purchases. Please contact us directly to discuss layaway or payment plan arrangements for items of significant value. Our team will work with you to create a payment schedule that fits your needs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, and other secure payment methods through our online store. All transactions are processed securely to protect your financial information.
Authenticity & Certification
How do you verify authenticity?
We employ a rigorous authentication process that includes expert examination, provenance research, and comparison with known examples. Our team has decades of experience in the autograph industry and uses advanced techniques to verify the authenticity of every item in our collection.
Do items come with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA)?
Yes, all items sold by Empire Autographs come with a Certificate of Authenticity. Our COA includes detailed information about the item, authentication methods used, and our guarantee of authenticity. This certificate adds significant value and provides peace of mind to collectors.
Are your items investment-grade?
Many of our items are considered investment-grade autographs. We focus on items from notable figures, rare signatures, and pieces with strong market demand. However, we recommend consulting with a financial advisor or autograph market expert to assess the investment potential of specific items based on your portfolio goals.
How do I care for and preserve my autographed memorabilia?
Proper care is essential for preserving autographed items. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use acid-free materials for storage, avoid touching the signature directly, and consider professional framing with UV-protective glass. For valuable pieces, we recommend consulting a professional conservator for specific preservation advice.