Autographs: The Gift That Keeps On Giving
June 10, 2015
Michael Osacky
World-class Sports Memorabilia Appraiser
Father’s Day is next weekend, which means millions of Americans probably have yet to buy gifts for the men in their lives. For reasons unknown, ties and shirts are always the go-to Father’s Day gifts. Enough! Try thinking outside the box this year.
Many baby boomers and empty nesters are starting to buy back their childhood memories, many collecting baseball sets from the 1950’s. You can earn bonus points with dad if you find out what cards he’s still missing and help him get closer to completing his set! The thrill of the hunt for those few missing cards can be fun and very rewarding, and no doubt the man in your life will appreciate the thought and effort you put into your gift. Keep in mind, though, that baseball cards have appreciated immensely since the 1950′s. A 1954 Hank Aaron near-mint condition baseball card could be purchased for under $1 in the late 1950s. Today, that same card would retail for over $15,000!
Autographs of your dad’s childhood heroes aren’t just limited to baseball cards; autographed books are gaining quite a bit of traction in sports memorabilia, and for good reason. For one, they’re a fantastic investment. According to America’s Largest Autographed Bookstore, signed books not only maintain, but increase their value, especially during times of economic downturn. Talk about a gift that keeps on giving! I have always found that autographed books are great for dads; most dads love books, and you can’t get much better than combining collectible history with some good literature. If your dad isn’t much of a sports buff, you’ll find that a number of politicians, presidents, foreign royalty, and on-air personalities also autograph keepsake books for fans.
Shopping for a Yankee fan? Retired New York Yankee shortstop Derek Jeter was a much-admired man, both on and off the baseball diamond. Recently, a book chronicling his final season was released, and not only is it a great read, but the numerous behind-the-scenes photos taken by renowned photographer Christopher Anderson are extraordinary. Additionally, Jeter signed a limited edition run of 400 books, which would be a wonderful gift for any Yankee fan in your life.
No matter what the man in your life is passionate about, you’re sure to find autographed memorabilia that suits his interests. Let’s move beyond the shirts and ties for good! A piece of autographed history is a thoughtful gift that he is sure to cherish for years to come. Have a happy Father’s Day!
Follow Michael! @baseballattic
Source: PARADE MAGAZINE