Sports Memorabilia Tips: Buying A Signed Custom Jersey vs. Authentic Jersey
Most diehard sports fans have that one jersey. It could be their first jersey tucked away in a box somewhere, their favorite player’s jersey, or even a jersey that holds some mysterious charm that its owner would swear is lucky. In most cases, the jerseys those sports fans own are known as authentic jerseys. On the other hand, custom jerseys, while still sometimes worn, are commonly signed and found at auctions. The differences between custom and authentic sports jerseys can be more intricate. Some of the tips provided below will help collectors make sense of the difference and what they’re purchasing when looking to land a signed jersey.
Signed custom jerseys and signed authentic jerseys can both hold value. Ultimately, when narrowing options in the custom vs. authentic jerseys decision, the right decision will come down to what a collector values.
What is a Custom Jersey?
A custom jersey, in many cases, will look very similar to an authentic jersey. The difference is the lack of a license by the manufacturer. Custom jerseys likely won’t feature team logos, league logos, or fonts. However, the colors of the jersey will match the team colors as closely as possible and fonts will still look similar to authentic jerseys.
When it comes to purchasing signed jerseys, many collectors elect to frame the jersey with only the back visible. In this case, it’s difficult to identify the difference between a custom or authentic jersey if it’s been skillfully designed. In either case, the authentication of the signature will determine the value and collectibility of the jersey. Custom jerseys can still hold value for collectors.
Key features of custom jerseys:
No team/league logos or licensing.
Colors and designs similar to authentic jerseys.
Often used for signed memorabilia where the front design is less important.
What is an Authentic Jersey?
An authentic jersey is officially licensed by the league and closely matches what the players wear on the field. These jerseys are more expensive but hold greater value, especially for collectors looking for long-term investment potential.
If you care about accuracy, authenticity, and are looking to maximize the resale value, an authentic jersey may be the better option.
Simply put, these are the jerseys consumers can purchase at retailers. These are officially licensed by leagues and will likely cost much more than a custom jersey. If the look of the jersey and how closely it matches what the players wear is important for a collector, this is likely the option to go with. Additionally, if a collector is looking at purchasing a jersey as an investment, authentic jerseys are typically more desirable to a wider base of buyers.
Key features of authentic jerseys:
Officially licensed with team and league logos.
Higher price tag due to quality and licensing.
Typically preferred by collectors for investment purposes.
Why Are Most Signed Jerseys Custom Jerseys?
You have probably noticed that a majority of signed jerseys at auction are custom jerseys. Why is that?
The main factor is affordability. In most cases, an authentic football jersey can cost upwards of $250 without a signature. Custom jerseys cost much less to produce at scale than authentic jerseys. When it comes to buying a signed jersey, collectors are often focused on the athlete and the signature.
Secondly, most collectors like to frame their signed jerseys, with only the backside being visible. Logos, branding and color are less of a factor when the item is framed. Sacrificing the licensed elements of the jersey to save money makes sense.
How to Verify the Authenticity of Signed Custom Jerseys
Whether you choose a custom or authentic jersey, verifying the authenticity of the signature is crucial. Validating the signature will be the most significant variable when it comes to determining the value of the signed jersey. Buyers will need to know the jersey was actually signed by the player before spending. These will need to be authenticated. Generally speaking, most people would be unwilling to purchase an unauthenticated jersey.
Sellers and collectors, on the other hand, can add an extra layer of authenticity to their product. Companies like PSA, Beckett, and James Spence Authentication (JSA) can all verify signatures and confirm authenticity. If the jersey is for a personal collection, authentication might not be as important as the item is priceless to them.
How to Verify the Authenticity of Signed Jerseys
Whether you choose a custom or authentic jersey, verifying the authenticity of the signature is crucial.
Here’s how you can ensure your signed jersey is real:
Look for trusted certification: Companies like PSA, Beckett, and James Spence Authentication provide third-party verification of signatures.
Check for a COA (Certificate of Authenticity): Reputable sellers will provide documentation verifying that the signature is genuine.
Holograms or serial numbers: These features, often issued by authentication companies, can be verified online.
Are Custom Jerseys Worth It?
If the goal is to purchase the jersey as an investment, the finer details are likely more important for maximizing value. This might lead to the authentic jersey making more sense. A collector might also like the look of an authentic jersey more than a custom jersey and is willing to spend a little more for the look. That’s reasonable, too. If collectors aren’t concerned with the logos and other elements from the jersey being removed, buying a custom jersey will likely cost less. It’s important to note, though, the signature will drive the value of the custom jersey. Depending on the player, a signed custom jersey could easily go for more than an authentic jersey signed by someone else.
For collectors looking to purchase a signed jersey, understanding the custom vs. authentic jersey decision is an important step. In many cases, it comes down to what a collector values in their memorabilia and what they aim to accomplish by making the purchase.
What’s Your Collecting Goal?
In the end, choosing between a custom or authentic signed jersey comes down to your personal preference as a collector. If you prioritize the signature and are on a budget, custom jerseys are a great choice. But if you’re looking for long-term investment value or prefer jerseys with official logos, authentic jerseys are the way to go.
Whether you’re a collector looking to display your favorite player’s autograph or aiming to invest in high-value memorabilia, understanding the differences between these jersey types is key to making a smart purchase.
