As a buyer and seller of rare and collectible comics for very years I have been fortunate to only get ripped off a few times. I would like to share my experience with you so you don't suffer a similar fate! If you are buying signed or autographed comics and books you want to ensure your investment is protected with an original, not a fake, so here is my guide of what to look out for:

- Does the comic has a Certificate Of Authenticity (COA) confirming the signature is authentic? If it does, is it from a reputable manufacturer like Dynamic Forces, Graham Crackers Comics or Jay Company? If it is from a private seller, check out their feedback for selling similar items or look on ebay for similar items and see if the signature is consistent.

- If it is a Dynamic Forces issue, look to see if it is a numbered or limited, but not numbered series. If it is numbered, the hand written number on the front should have a matching number on the COA on the back. Ask the seller for a picture of the COA if it is not shown on the lot. A UK seller has been selling fakes on Ebay where there is a number on the front with a non-numbered photocopied COA on the back!!! Mail me and I will let you know who to avoid. 

- If it is a Dynamic Forces issue, look at the COA. Does the colour look discoloured, washed out and is the printing sharp or slightly fuzzy. If it isn't clear, ask the seller for a large photo.

- What sort of pen is the signature written in? A recent bunch of fakes on Ebay UK were in thick gold and silver marker pen. When the same seller keeps selling large volumes of the same issue week in, week out you should question whether they really bought tens of copies or are busy in their bedroom with felt tip pens! ;-)

- Heroes Assemble has been buying and selling rare comics for years and would be delighted to help you if you are worried about whether a book is authentic or a fake.