Expert: Fabio Anderle - 8/4/2008

Question
QUESTION: HI I paid 1500 for an autographed Celtics ball for this 2007/2008 season.  It is autographed by the entire team.  I came with a letter from the Celtics on their letter head and framed.  Is that the same as a certificate of authenticity? I could have bought one on e-bay without a certificate for $300 but I thought $1500 with the letter from the Boston Celtics was a better idea?  What are your thoughts? Marian

ANSWER: Hi Marian,

a certificate of authenticity is a document which states that the related item is original. So, if the Celtics declare that the basketball you acquired is original, whoever could argue with them?
The framed letter is certificate of authenticity, no question about it. You spent a lot of bucks more than if you had bought an un-certified basketball, but after all is said and done, you own a keepsake of a terrific season.
Congratulations...


Fabio

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you Fabio for your quick and thorough response.  What do you think a ball that is certified and signed by the entire 2007/2008 Celtics team is worth? Marian

Answer
Marian,

of course right now the basketball is worth what you paid for it. If you find a fan who could eventually pay something more that would be fine, but right now nobody would pay, say, 1,600 dollars for a gift they can find at a lower price just contacting the Boston Celtics. My advice it to keep it, since it will take time to see its value rise.



Fabio