The Area Of Direct Sports Memorabilia

One could say that direct sports memorabilia would be items used directly by a famous sports figure. Items such as their own personal dinner plates, watches, jerseys, mugs key chains, jewelry, or videos. It could also involve things such as worn sports jerseys, game balls, game gloves, game bats, photos of a particular athlete, or even a jock strap (You don't get much more direct than that!). Perhaps it includes items produced en masse at a factory and signed by the athlete, or a promotional item the athlete is personally endorsing. Direct sports memorabilia also refers to items an athlete signs as a part of a contract directly between the athlete and a particular company.

Although product sales have declined somewhat due to arrogant players or players getting negative publicity, there are still millions to be made because of an association between a material thing and the famous athlete.

Collections from golf greats such as Tiger Woods would include scorecards, golf balls, photos, flags, signed drivers, or signed and cancelled checks. Boxing items that would be popular include gloves, trunks, robes, boxing shoes, and speed bags. One famous boxer, George Foreman, went on to invent the popular tabletop grills which make eating healthier. A wrestling icon who has filled the stands and the pockets of those who sold memorabilia connected to him is Hulk Hogan. Being a gracious host to one of his number one fans, he even went so far as to invite the lucky recipient to his home for one-on-one time with the wrestler and his family.

Some companies with strong reputations who contract direct with athletes are: Upper Deck, Steiner Sports, Mounted Memories, ALLAuthentic, and Schwartzsports. Athletes may have exclusive contracts with companies such as these and won't sign for anyone else because of obligations in their contracts. These dealers document the signings and can prove authenticity. The company will handle any and all signing on items sold in direct relation to that athlete.

Not only do their signatures gain wealth because of their fame, the contracts often include the nickname, initial, autograph facsimile, voice, video or film portrayals, photo likeness and image or facsimile image of the athlete. The athlete, though bound by these legal limitations, is also very well compensated for their involvement. So, sometimes it will seem as though an athlete is just being rude by not signing autographs, there may be legal limitations which won't allow them to share that privilege without prior approval.

It is possible to buy direct from show promoters on a presale basis. You can attend public signings, buy from a company the player owns, or even invest in a company that deals directly with athletes. Some offer 20% returns on short-term investments.

PSA-DNA is an authentication service that grades collectibles. You can submit your item to them for authentication. Items such as bats, baseballs, and even saddles can be authenticated. Saddles? Yes, saddles. Humans aren't the only ones to enjoy the fame of sports. Horses that race are also treated like royalty by adoring fans! I'd say a saddle is a direct collectible, wouldn't you?