A guideline to be aware of autograph forgeries or

if it seems to good to be true Its propably is !
by Markus Brandes Autographs - isitreal.geThe only 100% way to ensure that a signature is genuine is to have obtained it yourself from the person concerned. However, here some basic guidelines which we hope will assist you in your search for the genuine article.
All signatures have a character to them; forward or backward leaning or other style unique to the individual concerned. People's signatures also tend to be of similar size each time, depending on what they are signing.
Signatures can differ for the same person and can be better if obtained in a relaxed atmosphere rather than on premiere or race day or other pressured environments.
When you have a proven signature, photocopy it for future reference and geparison. Spotting forgeries is the most difficult but most important part on every serious autograph collection.
Whenever possible buy from a well established and reliable source - you may pay more for the signed piece but at least you can be reasonably sure that it is correct and genuine.
Signatures applied before 1960 were mostly done in ball pen, pencil or fountain pen. Felt-tip pens became popular in the 60ies and indeed, there is a photograph of Jim Clark holding one. Autographs in ball pen are the most vulnerable and likely to fade if is not cared for, while pencil, although perhaps less attractive than the stronger pen