Why Autographs?
Why invest in autographs?
Healthy returns with an unlimited upside are complemented by the wonderful feeling of pride from owning an important piece of history. How many people do you know with a genuine Marilyn Monroe signed photograph, an authenticated Henry VIII signed manuscript or a first edition of a Disney book signed by the man himself?
Why choose Stanley Gibbons?
Ask any stamp collector and they’ll tell you who we are. Established in 1856, Stanley Gibbons is synonymous with philatelic expertise, high quality and fair dealing. We are a debt-free company listed on the London Stock Exchange. Fraser’s Autographs, a subsidiary of the SG group, is a global leader in autographed material. We only select the rarest items and best items for our portfolios. There is often a waiting list to join our investment programs.
How do we differ from other investment companies?
We only select the rarest items for our portfolios. There is often a waiting list to join our investment programs so you can be assured that the items in your portfolio are of the highest quality.
What is the average investment you deal with?
The average investment is now £48,000 and growing - a good indication of the confidence in this alternative asset class.
How do you select my investment?
We have over 3 million stamps and 60,000 autographs in stock, which are traded daily with collectors around the world. Of these, we select the top quality rarities for investment purposes. At any one time, there are approximately just 120-150 investment grade stamps and 30-40 autographs available.
How do I know if my investment is authentic?
We offer a lifetime guarantee of authenticity - which is vital for serious investors. The FBI reports that 90% of autographs for sale on ebay are forgeries. We only use the most trustworthy suppliers. Our reputation has been built over 150 years of trading collectibles and over 30 years trading specifically in rare manuscripts and signatures.
How do I pay?
Payment can be made by cheque, bank transfer debit card or credit card. There is a surcharge on credit card payments, depending upon the type of card. All transactions take place in GB Pound Sterling.
Can I top up my investment?
Yes. Almost half our investors are repeat buyers. Simply let us know how much you wish to invest and we will propose a suitable addition to your portfolio.
How do I know whether my investment is gaining or losing value?
We offer secure online access to view your valuation(s), which are performed once a year when the new catalogue prices are published.
How do I go about insuring and storing my investment?
All investors are offered free insurance and storage for the duration of your investment All portfolios are stored in a secure vault in London or Guernsey. If you wish to store your investment at home we can supply details of specialist insurers.
Can I view my portfolio when it is stored with you?
Yes, of course. If you wish to view the portfolio in Guernsey we just ask for one week’s notice. You would also need to provide photo identification in the form of a passport or driving license on arrival or security.
Do you provide proof of ownership?
Absolutely. You will be supplied with an invoice as proof of ownership.
How do I sell my portfolio?
It depends on which investment option you take. We will advise on the best exit route when you decide to sell.
What about fees?
There are no management or administration fees and we charge no commission for selling via a Fraser’s auction. We do charge a small commission on exit for marketing the portfolio to our database or to buy the items back.
What is the next step?
Please contact us on 0845 026 7170 or +44 (0)1481 708 277 or email us at investment@stanleygibbons.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
