Signature Studies

Autograph collectors have serious interest in studying signatures primarily because authenticity is often based on signatures that have consistency.ч  However, signatures that are identical may indicate a mechanically formed signature such as with a rubber stamp or autopen.ч  Autograph collectors who are savvy and experienced know that signatures from the same person can vary by a small degree, even when multiple signatures are written on the same document.

Analysis of signatures considers a variety of factors.ч  The first consideration is whether the signature resembles a general pattern of the individual"s known autograph.ч  Extreme variations of a signature compared with known examples, particularly when it involves multiple letters, is a strong indication that the signature under study is not authentic.ч  Sometimes a blatant variation in spelling is a clear giveaway as to a forgery, such as when an official NASA photograph is signed "Neal Armstrong" rather than "Neil Armstrong".

Experienced signature analysts consider the type of paper used for the autograph.ч  For example, papers used in modern times were not available during America"s colonial period.ч  Similarly, ballpoint pen signatures and felt tip markers can narrow the period of time when a signature was constructed.ч 

One of then most revealing aspects of a signature are pressure points where the ink is thickest and darkest.ч  Pressure points often do not vary as much as the general pattern of a signature.ч  For example, even though the loop of a letter can vary in size from one example to another, the method of construction can be similar.ч 

Pressure points of a signature are most apparent with an ink pen, but virtually impossible to decipher when a signature is made with a pencil or felt tip marker.ч  For this reason, many serious autograph collectors prefer signatures with ink pens instead of any other type of writing instrument.ч 

Signature studies are based on experience and education.ч  A thorough signature study that considers many forms an individual"s signature can provide a valuable basis for analysis on many different levels.

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