The eBay BS Game: Questionable items, Stephen King signatures, sellers

[Fsmdr]

What do you guys think of this?. I'm pretty sure it's a fake with the strange loop-sided inscription.

http://cgi.ebay.com/stephen-kings-skeleton-crew-1st-ed-and-signed-/250723558177?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item3a6049e321

[jhanic]

I'm not sure. I'd avoid it for just that reason. Plus, the positioning of the inscription and signature seems off too.

John

[Randall Flagg]

I think it's legit, I just don't understand why King would take the time to write "With Best Wishes" in an odd angle on the page.

[Rahfa]

I dunno...that one bugs me. I def. wouldn't call it 'fake,' but I just don't like it.

[debungsmere]

Hello, what edition is the following item.http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270659177998&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123 The gold rim seems different than the other 1st edition, I asked him to take off the dust jacket and take a picture and he responded that the book is brown but the dust jacket cant come off without tearing. I assume this is because of the ex-library status of the book. But the gold rim seems off, any thoughts?

[e_taylor]

Hello, what edition is the following item.http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270659177998&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123 The gold rim seems different than the other 1st edition, I asked him to take off the dust jacket and take a picture and he responded that the book is brown but the dust jacket cant come off without tearing. I assume this is because of the ex-library status of the book. But the gold rim seems off, any thoughts?

Sounds like a 1st edition. The gold rim is on the dust jacket protector as opposed to the book or jacket itself. Its thinker plastic that protects the book better while its in the library system.

[ChristineB]

Hello, what edition is the following item.http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270659177998&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123 The gold rim seems different than the other 1st edition, I asked him to take off the dust jacket and take a picture and he responded that the book is brown but the dust jacket cant come off without tearing. I assume this is because of the ex-library status of the book. But the gold rim seems off, any thoughts?

It is a library book. I have 2 1st with this type of dust jacket protector on them, and the libraries like to glue the DJ to the book so it didn't get lost. This is a first edition of the book as evidenced from the 2 prices on the DJ and the statement on the copywrite page and the colored endpapers. Not a bad copy to go with if you don't want to spend the $400-500 on a nice copy for your collection. :)

[WeDealInLead]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Salems-Lot-Stephen-King-1975-Hardcover-/140479347446?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item20b538baf6

I think this seller lives in a Bizzaro World. Just look at that description of the DJ. YIKES!

[Sam]

Someone has ZERO idea of what good condition means.

[Rahfa]

Good grief...looks like somebody took the d/j off the book, crumped it into a ball, unfolded it and put it back on the book.

Plus, no word what edition it even is...although, at least they provided a picture.

[carlosdetweiller]

Good grief...looks like somebody took the d/j off the book, crumped it into a ball, unfolded it and put it back on the book.

Plus, no word what edition it even is...although, at least they provided a picture.

You can tell it is a later edition by the wording at the bottom of the front panel of the dust jacket. On first edition dust jackets and some early reprints the wording states "A New Novel By The Author Of Carrie." At some point they changed it to read "By The Author Of Carrie." So, right off the bat, you can tell it is a later reprint and not a highly collectible edition.

[Rahfa]

Ah...didn't even occur to me....but not sure it was worth it no matter what the answer was!

[Patrick]

Not a signed item, just someone please tell me that this price is a major typo.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Christine-Fright-Night-VHS-1983-85-NEW-GIFT-BOX-SET-/360244009370?pt=VHS&hash=item53e037599a

[Tito_Villa]

:lol:

[Brice]

Not a signed item, just someone please tell me that this price is a major typo.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Christine-Fright-Night-VHS-1983-85-NEW-GIFT-BOX-SET-/360244009370?pt=VHS&hash=item53e037599a

...and he has two of them so you can buy both. :lol:

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Not a signed item, just someone please tell me that this price is a major typo.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Christine-Fright-Night-VHS-1983-85-NEW-GIFT-BOX-SET-/360244009370?pt=VHS&hash=item53e037599a

...and he has two of them so you can buy both. :lol:

But look at the Ebay bucks you will earn

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

[Patrick]

Not a signed item, just someone please tell me that this price is a major typo.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Christine-Fright-Night-VHS-1983-85-NEW-GIFT-BOX-SET-/360244009370?pt=VHS&hash=item53e037599a

...and he has two of them so you can buy both. :lol:

But look at the Ebay bucks you will earn

Mulleins
Cumberland VA
:rofl: Leave it to Ralph to look at the cloud and see the silver lining.

[Randall Flagg]

Not sure if this is legit or BS: Stephen King Sketch (http://cgi.ebay.com/ORIGINAL-1-KIND-STEPHEN-KING-SKETCH-/180586358130?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2a0bc92572)

(http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RED-SOX-JERSEY-BASEBALL-WTH-PROOF-/330368321526?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ceb7c87f6)STEPHEN KING SIGNED RED SOX JERSEY & BASEBALL WTH PROOF (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RED-SOX-JERSEY-BASEBALL-WTH-PROOF-/330368321526?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ceb7c87f6)

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Ebay Auction Title: Needful Things by Stephen King His real Autograph!!!!!!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Needful-Things-Stephen-King-His-real-Autograph-/200546373223?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item2eb17ece67

I'm glad the seller cleared that up by posting King's "Real Autograph". Now I can go about removing all the fake ones that are in my collection.

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

[thegreattim]

Ebay Auction Title: Needful Things by Stephen King His real Autograph!!!!!!

And it was super nice of them to post such a super clear picture of that super questionable signature. :lol:

[Room 217 Caretaker]

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/storm_signature.jpg

http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-king-Storm-Century-Signed-Book-COA-/170569891491?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27b6c1fea3

Just my opinion :orely:

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

[Randall Flagg]

Excellent points.

[thegreattim]

You're 100% right in my opinion too. That loop seems a bit too forced and unnatural. Too bad.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

If you can't find that rare 1st edition jacket you've been searching for......simply make your own. This seller did:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Night-Shift-1st-ed-/330500838165?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item4cf3629315

Please don't attack the seller. He is being honest in the listing. I just thought it was funny.

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

[willie3]

If you can't find that rare 1st edition jacket you've been searching for......simply make your own. This seller did:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Night-Shift-1st-ed-/330500838165?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item4cf3629315

Please don't attack the seller. He is being honest in the listing. I just thought it was funny.

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

For the record Ralph,
I live in Jacksonville, but I do not know this store or seller.
:nope:

Karl

[Rahfa]

If you can't find that rare 1st edition jacket you've been searching for......simply make your own. This seller did:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Night-Shift-1st-ed-/330500838165?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item4cf3629315

Please don't attack the seller. He is being honest in the listing. I just thought it was funny.

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

Haha...good idea. I've seen that before, actually...marrying a 1st edition to a non-1st d/j just so it looks good on the shelf. Not a bad idea for appearance sake, but of course only the same as selling a 1st edition without a dustjacket at all.

[Tito_Villa]

Could people please give me opinions on this sig !?!?
http://i819.photobucket.com/albums/zz116/tito_villa/Books/kingpic1.jpg
Thanks

[carlosdetweiller]

Could people please give me opinions on this sig !?!?


I don't like it. For starters the "g" is definitely wrong. The loop is not smooth but looks forced. King most always picks the pen up between the "K" and the "i" but it looks looks wrong somehow on this signature. I wouldn't buy this one for my collection.

[Tito_Villa]

Yeah the sig didn't look too bad to me apart from the 'g' as he never seems to curl it like that at the end!?

[Mr. Rabbit Trick]

It's not a good signature and it's in the wrong place. King would not sign beside Darrel Anderson's name.

[Rahfa]

I don't like that loop for same reason as Carlos....and, the 'h' looks very careful as well, too careful. Really, that's true of the whole signtaure, those parts especially.

[Hutch]

Could people please give me opinions on this sig !?!?
http://i819.photobucket.com/albums/zz116/tito_villa/Books/kingpic1.jpg
Thanks

the more I look at it the uglier it gets. I don't think there's a single letter in it that looks good. the phen is horrid along with all of King. No doubt a dud of a very difficult to find legitimately signed King title.

[Tito_Villa]

Thanks for the input everyone!

[biomieg]

Isn't this a 'great' example of a genuine King inscription + signature? Not to mention awesome photography skills...

http://i.ebayimg.com/10/!B9e!HTwBGk~$(KGrHqZ,!joEzK0O)hz2BM56294vo!~~_12.J PG

And it's only $185! http://cgi.ebay.com/Needful-Things-Stephen-King-His-real-Autograph-/200551011297?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item2eb1c593e1

[Brice]

:unsure: Is it "autographed" on the cover of the book itself???

[thegreattim]

Not to mention awesome photography skills...

I'll bet there's a reason they did not take a better photo! :lol:

[thegreattim]

Isn't this a 'great' example of a genuine King inscription + signature?

C'mon, guys it's totally real! The seller said so when I gently told her that she had been mislead.


It looks real i have 2 books of his signed by him. I don't think it is fake honestly i got them from a guy who left them behind ,...no, i truelly think this is real. The guy would go to where ever there were books being signed he had a ton of real autographs ..All the books he read were autographed by stephen king it's not fake

[Tito_Villa]

All the books were signed ... :lol:

[gsvec]

. . . by the guy who OWNED them - not SK. :wtf:

[Fsmdr]

Any opinions on this? The signature looks a bit 'off' to me

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110621090750&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[gsvec]

Looks good to me. To bad about the Dave/Glenn thing, tho.

[Sam]

The sig looks fine to me, but I wouldn't pay full price for it because of the other inscription. I would think 50% less than full value. The other inscription seriously depreciates it to my eyes.

[jhanic]

I agree. It just doesn't look right to me either.

John

[Tito_Villa]

I have been told by the seller that this is perfectly legit ...
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190475433866&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:GB:1123

[biomieg]

Oh. My. God.

[Randall Flagg]

A perfectly legit piece of crap.

[thegreattim]

:lol::rofl::wtf::lol: Is that signed on the inside of the jacket? Riiiiiiight, that's perfectly authentic.

[Sam]

Junk it.

[gsvec]

Probably why the pic is so HUGE. :wtf: Ick. Just ick.

[CRinVA]

NOw the seller can fall back on theri big feedback rating of (0)!

[jhanic]

Three bidders and six bids!

John

[biomieg]

This is just mindboggling: http://cgi.ebay.com/RARE-Stephen-King-LIMITED-1983-book-SIGNED-CHRISTINE-DM-/170576981594?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item27b72e2e5a

http://i.ebayimg.com/05/!B+g61YwEGk~$(KGrHqQOKnMEz4BNvjL9BM+59+oKjQ~~_12.J PG

Just so you know: this is definitely one of the 1000 S/Ls issued by Donald M. Grant. You know why? Because it has the DMB
imprinted 'notery' insignia:
http://i.ebayimg.com/21/!B+g65-QBmk~$(KGrHqIOKiQEz7ZC9ZTMBM+5-ND3VQ~~_12.JPG

And, as you can see, it is signed:

http://i.ebayimg.com/23/!B+g6-Y!CWk~$(KGrHqYOKnUEz1r)VGYcBM+5-,WuPg~~_12.JPG

It doesn't look very good in the picture, but don't worry!


has a little water damamge on the cover - but does NOT affect ANY pages or sticky pages -
SK on the cover
viking
pages are PERFECT!!
SK on the cover.

it def doesnt look as bad as the photo :)

[Tito_Villa]

Hhahahahahahahahahsa ... that is all

[Brice]

This is just mindboggling: http://cgi.ebay.com/RARE-Stephen-King-LIMITED-1983-book-SIGNED-CHRISTINE-DM-/170576981594?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item27b72e2e5a

http://i.ebayimg.com/05/!B+g61YwEGk~$(KGrHqQOKnMEz4BNvjL9BM+59+oKjQ~~_12.J PG

Just so you know: this is definitely one of the 1000 S/Ls issued by Donald M. Grant. You know why? Because it has the DMB
imprinted 'notery' insignia:
http://i.ebayimg.com/21/!B+g65-QBmk~$(KGrHqIOKiQEz7ZC9ZTMBM+5-ND3VQ~~_12.JPG

And, as you can see, it is signed:

http://i.ebayimg.com/23/!B+g6-Y!CWk~$(KGrHqYOKnUEz1r)VGYcBM+5-,WuPg~~_12.JPG

It doesn't look very good in the picture, but don't worry!


has a little water damamge on the cover - but does NOT affect ANY pages or sticky pages -
SK on the cover
viking
pages are PERFECT!!
SK on the cover.

it def doesnt look as bad as the photo :)

My DMG limited of Christine doesn't look like this. Should I be concerned? :unsure:

[Randall Flagg]

Still a deal @ $7.99.

[Brice]

I don't know if I'd let THAT book sit on my bookshelves if you payed me 799. <---notice the lack of decimal

[Patrick]

That Christine is firestarter. If you get my drift.

[Brice]

:lol:

[carlosdetweiller]

Here is Michael Autrey claiming to be "getting old and running out of steam." IMO he reached that state years ago. What an asshole!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Clive-Barker-Dealer-Inventory-Reduction-Stephen-King-/140491978004?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item20b5f97514

[Randall Flagg]

He just hangs around like athletes foot.

[e_taylor]

Here is Michael Autrey claiming to be "getting old and running out of steam." IMO he reached that state years ago. What an asshole!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Clive-Barker-Dealer-Inventory-Reduction-Stephen-King-/140491978004?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item20b5f97514

I'm sure you've told the story before, but I'm lazy!

So if you don't mind, whats the deal with this guy?

[thegreattim]

I don't know the story, but the guy seems to be selling a very undefined selection of goods ("possibly this, maybe that, couple hundred of this - but maybe more") for a very specific price. In my mind that alone is enough to earn the title of douche-bag.

[Randall Flagg]

"Signed" Skeleton Crew (http://cgi.ebay.com/SKELETON-CREW-Stephen-King-Signed-1st-Edition-/160520747603?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item255fc83a53)

[carlosdetweiller]

"Signed" Skeleton Crew (http://cgi.ebay.com/SKELETON-CREW-Stephen-King-Signed-1st-Edition-/160520747603?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item255fc83a53)

I don't have a signed copy of SKELETON CREW in my collection. I'd like one but I hardly ever even click on the eBay links that claim to be selling one any more. I almost know without looking it will be a fake.

[carlosdetweiller]

Here is Michael Autrey claiming to be "getting old and running out of steam." IMO he reached that state years ago. What an asshole!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Clive-Barker-Dealer-Inventory-Reduction-Stephen-King-/140491978004?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item20b5f97514

I'm sure you've told the story before, but I'm lazy!

So if you don't mind, whats the deal with this guy?

I'm too lazy to go into it all again.

[Randall Flagg]

Here's a link to some, but not all background on Michael Autrey: http://www.thedarktower.org/palaver/showthread.php?2482-Book-Dealers-eBay-Members-to-Avoid-like-the-Plague/page3&highlight=Michael+Autrey

[thegreattim]

"Signed" Skeleton Crew (http://cgi.ebay.com/SKELETON-CREW-Stephen-King-Signed-1st-Edition-/160520747603?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item255fc83a53)

"Very bold" indeed! :wtf:

[thegreattim]

Hey, while I'm here... How long does a seller have to wait to assume non-payment on an completed auction? I'm not a big seller (in fact, the auction in question is only my fifth), but I am curious.

[Randall Flagg]

Hey, while I'm here... How long does a seller have to wait to assume non-payment on an completed auction? I'm not a big seller (in fact, the auction in question is only my fifth), but I am curious.
Per Ebay: (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/questions/no-payment.html)
I haven't been paid. What can I do?
If your buyer hasn't paid, here's what you need to do:


Contact your buyer. Like everyone, buyers can have emergencies or computer problems, so they may not be able to respond to you right away. If they don't respond to your email, you may want to request their contact information (http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQtZvbQQsofindtypeZ9) and give them a call.
Send a payment reminder. Send the buyer a friendly payment reminder between 3 and 30 days after the listing ends.
Open a case in our Resolution Center. If you still don't get a response from the buyer, or if you feel that you won't receive payment, you can open an unpaid item case in our Resolution Center (http://resolutioncenter.ebay.com/) as early as 4 days or up until 32 days after the listing ends. Your buyer is notified immediately and given an opportunity to respond. If the buyer doesn't respond or doesn't pay within 4 days, or you're unable to reach an agreement with the buyer, you can close the case and you'll automatically receive a credit for your final value fee. Read more about the Resolution Center (http://resolutioncenter.ebay.com/) and instructions for what to do when a buyer doesn't pay (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/unpaid-items.html).
If you'd rather use a feature that automatically opens and closes an unpaid item case on your behalf, consider setting up Unpaid Item Assistant (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/unpaid-item-assistant.html) on your account.
Offer the item for sale again. You can extend a Second Chance Offer (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/second_chance_offer.html) to another bidder, or relist your item (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/relist.html) and you may qualify for a credit on the insertion fee (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/relist.html#requirements).

Note: If you're selling multiple items (http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/multiple.html), you can open an unpaid item case for as many buyers as necessary.

[thegreattim]

Oh, hey, thanks for the link! I will have to explore those further...

[demorgan]

I would like some feedback if this is real or not

ebay item # 270682381333

[frik]

It's sold.
Looked fine to me.

sk

[Patrick]

Perhaps I'm wrong, but methinks "nomoredayjob" should keep their day job.

Signed UK Bag of Bones (http://cgi.ebay.com/stephen-King-SIGNED-Bag-Bones-RARE-UK-Ed-1st-1st-HC-/190377880364?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item2c5367eb2c)

[Sam]

I thought they just did bookplates for the UK King signings for Bag of Bones. Am I mistaken? I know that's the UK edition and the sig looks bad, but am I mistaken about the bookplate thing?

[Patrick]

I thought they just did bookplates for the UK King signings for Bag of Bones. Am I mistaken? I know that's the UK edition and the sig looks bad, but am I mistaken about the bookplate thing?

You are correct, the Limited edition employed bookplates. They are numbered and the limitation was 2000 copies.

However this auction does not claim to be part of the official Limited edition, just a rare signed book.

[jhanic]

It's a fake.

John

[Randall Flagg]

Thoughts on this signature?
http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-DIFFERENT-SEASONS-1ST-ED-HC-DJ-/110629943032?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item19c20ef6f8#ht_744wt_1135

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/9408/sigln.jpg

[Tito_Villa]

It looks very similar to the fakes that antiqueshere used to put up, the same squished look!

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Thoughts on this signature?
http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-DIFFERENT-SEASONS-1ST-ED-HC-DJ-/110629943032?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item19c20ef6f8#ht_744wt_1135

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/9408/sigln.jpg

I don't like the signature on the sellers Different Seasons or the sellers Eye's of the Dragon.

Nope. I don't like them one bit.

Mulleins
Cumberland VA

[carlosdetweiller]

I agree with the others that it is a fake.

[WeDealInLead]

Can we include shady buyers? I love getting messages like this one:

Dear welcometolud,

Due to an error on my part I cannot purchase this item at this time. Someone got on my account and bid on it without my knowledge. I'm sorry for the trouble. Give it to the next highest bidder.


- doogles43

[Randall Flagg]

I would require the "buyer" to officially retract their winning bid. At least a retraction-for whatever reason will be recorded.
EDIT: Try the Ebay resolution center. Things are heavily weighted in the buyers favor (which overall they should be), but at least if the buyer incurs numerous deadbeat complaints, there may be action on ebay's part.
Other than that you should give a Second Chance offer to the 2nd highest bidder-if the price was enough. If that isn't to your liking you should be able to obtain a credit for some of the fees involved with listing and selling the item.

[WeDealInLead]

I made a second chance offer. I tried contacting the resolution centre and I can't until the 6th.

I miss the option to give a negative to a buyer. This POS can do this again and still stay registered. Future seller won't even know about the shady practice.

[e_taylor]

I made a second chance offer. I tried contacting the resolution centre and I can't until the 6th.

I miss the option to give a negative to a buyer. This POS can do this again and still stay registered. Future seller won't even know about the shady practice.

I actually had this problem with two different buyers on two different items at the same time recently. Although I got no contact whatsoever. After the 5 days of however long you have to wait I filed non-payment complaints and after 4 more days I was credited for the final value fees. Its a pain in the ass and a waste of my time, but I'm not out any money so I can't complain too much.

[biomieg]

Such a beautiful specimen!

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Signed-Stephen-Kings-Classic-IT-/110631563830?pt=Fiction&hash=item19c227b236

http://i.ebayimg.com/02/!CBpyQSg!2k~$(KGrHqJ,!iIE0F9KtlRwBNIi2OzHYg~~_12.J PG

[Mr. Rabbit Trick]

Lovely!

[jhanic]

Yechhh!

John

[Randall Flagg]

Bad.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Signed-Book-Writing-/170585678450?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item27b7b2e272#ht_500wt_1156

[jhanic]

I agree.

John

[Tito_Villa]

I would love one of those signed too :(

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Bad.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Signed-Book-Writing-/170585678450?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item27b7b2e272#ht_500wt_1156

His Michael Crichton is fake also.

[thegreattim]

Bad.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Signed-Book-Writing-/170585678450?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item27b7b2e272#ht_500wt_1156

His Michael Crichton is fake also.

Wow. Yeah it is. Looks like King and Crichton signed their books back to back with the same black marker... makes you wonder about the rest of his supposed signatures. That Kobe Brayant card has the same black marker too (not that I have any idea what Kobe's signature looks like).

[surly]

This seller tends to be hit or miss so I'm not confident enough to make the call on my own. What do you think of this one:
http://i846.photobucket.com/albums/ab21/surly_pics/fake.jpg

[Rahfa]

Looks okay, but if you think the seller's hit or miss I wouldn't bother.

EDIT: Just looked up the listing...no way in hell I'd buy from that seller.

If you're budget's $275, I have a signed "On Writing" I got from Betts a few years back that I'd sell.

[herbertwest]

I seriously HATE the geographic restrictions on ebay... I cant even watch/ bid on items that interest me...

[biomieg]

I still don't really understand what's going on, Jeremy. I have no problems using any international eBay website (Dutch, US,UK, France, Germany, any site I ever tried).

[thegreattim]

Looks okay, but if you think the seller's hit or miss I wouldn't bother.

EDIT: Just looked up the listing...no way in hell I'd buy from that seller.

If you're budget's $275, I have a signed "On Writing" I got from Betts a few years back that I'd sell.

Speaking of, though, looks like Wiz has had several pleasant experiences recently with that seller.

[herbertwest]

I still don't really understand what's going on, Jeremy. I have no problems using any international eBay website (Dutch, US,UK, France, Germany, any site I ever tried).

I'll send you an ebay auction i am interested by, and tell me if you can access it or not... but dont bid on it or i'll kick your arse!

[Rahfa]

Looks okay, but if you think the seller's hit or miss I wouldn't bother.

EDIT: Just looked up the listing...no way in hell I'd buy from that seller.

If you're budget's $275, I have a signed "On Writing" I got from Betts a few years back that I'd sell.

Speaking of, though, looks like Wiz has had several pleasant experiences recently with that seller.

Well, that counts for something then....though the original comment of "hit or miss" would apply here...

[thegreattim]

Looks okay, but if you think the seller's hit or miss I wouldn't bother.

EDIT: Just looked up the listing...no way in hell I'd buy from that seller.

If you're budget's $275, I have a signed "On Writing" I got from Betts a few years back that I'd sell.

Speaking of, though, looks like Wiz has had several pleasant experiences recently with that seller.

Well, that counts for something then....though the original comment of "hit or miss" would apply here...

Agreed. Some of his replies to his negative feedback make him sound like a giant douche-bag... After all, who confirms they lack customer service and then calls their potential customers "beotch" on a non-retractable, public feedback system?

[frik]

I still don't really understand what's going on, Jeremy. I have no problems using any international eBay website (Dutch, US,UK, France, Germany, any site I ever tried).

I've had this happen. I tried to bid on an item located in the US (I believe it was) and I was unable to do so. But, I think this had to do with the restrictions the seller himself set, not with eBay as such.

sk

[herbertwest]

Well, apparently Biomeg (in the Netherlands??) can access it... it's really annoying.. and they lose business...

[Stockerlone]

I seriously HATE the geographic restrictions on ebay... I cant even watch/ bid on items that interest me...


I never have problems using any international eBay website :scared:

[Patrick]

This edition of INSOMNIA has been signed by both SK and Robin Williams. The auction prominently displays the certificate of authenticity, so I know it's legit.

Dig it. (http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-Robin-Williams-Signd-Insomnia-Book-JSA-/300507923299)

Who's gonna bite?

[biomieg]

In all fairness, Robin Williams did play a role in the movie Insomnia: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0278504/

So this has to be the real thing, right?

Right?

Oh.

Was this movie not based on King's book? Bummer...

[Stockerlone]

But THIS Insomnia Movie with Williams, Pacino, Swank have NOTHING to do with Stephen Kings INSOMNIA book

[thegreattim]

WTF. :wtf: If you are going to have the balls to fake signatures and then issue a COA, at least have the business sense necessary to realize the film Insomnia has absolutely nothing to do with the Stephen King book by the coincidentally same name. I'm sure Robin Williams, when doing the movie, would not have signed any such book, knowing his film had nothing to do with it. What a load of B.S.

[Stockerlone]

Just become this: I info the seller about his INSOMNIA.

Hallo stockerlone,
Wow after researching this you are right. Thank you for the heads up. I guess thins is a common mistake then. Robin Williams had no problem signing the book. It's still kind of a cool item and I wi;; fix my discription and lower the price a little.

Thanks, Jim - bostonsportscollect-jim


But i think... an ´wrong´ book signed from Williams... is funny...

[east-tennessee]

Hallo stockerlone,
Wow after researching this you are right. Thank you for the heads up. I guess thins is a common mistake then. Robin Williams had no problem signing the book. It's still kind of a cool item and I wi;; fix my discription and lower the price a little

thats hilarious....:wtf:

[thegreattim]

Just become this: I info the seller about his INSOMNIA.

Hallo stockerlone,
Wow after researching this you are right. Thank you for the heads up. I guess thins is a common mistake then. Robin Williams had no problem signing the book. It's still kind of a cool item and I wi;; fix my discription and lower the price a little.

Thanks, Jim - bostonsportscollect-jim


But i think... an ´wrong´ book signed from Williams... is funny...


I messaged the seller about the same thing and gently suggested that they may wish to hire new COA experts... but they declined to reply to me. :-)

[Patrick]

Shouldn't this (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RICHARD-BACHMAN-REGULATORS-BOOK-/150489887807?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item2309e5743f) be signed by Richard Bachman rather than SK?

Also interesting that the "supersize image" is the same small size as the thumbnail.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Shouldn't this (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RICHARD-BACHMAN-REGULATORS-BOOK-/150489887807?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item2309e5743f) be signed by Richard Bachman rather than SK?

Also interesting that the "supersize image" is the same small size as the thumbnail.

Agreed. From this angle I don't like the swoop (doesn't look smooth). A more straight on close-up of the sig is needed.

[jhanic]

I don't like it. The entire "Stephen" doesn't look right.

John

[Randall Flagg]

Thumbs down.

[Randall Flagg]

"Signed" 3x5 card with PSA DNA. (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-3X5-INDEX-CARD-SLABBED-PSA-DNA-/400001035320?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d21eb6c38#ht_969wt_901)
Note the case lists King's name as 'Steven King'.:wtf:

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/9859/king3x5.jpg

[redsoxfan565]

Shouldn't this (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RICHARD-BACHMAN-REGULATORS-BOOK-/150489887807?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item2309e5743f) be signed by Richard Bachman rather than SK?

Also interesting that the "supersize image" is the same small size as the thumbnail.

It's my auction, and I would be glad to get you a better scan. I have been getting Stephen for the past couple of years, and while extremely difficult, he isn't impossible to get on earlier books/different items. No idea why you actually feel it is fake though, you didn't seem to give a legitimate reason.

[redsoxfan565]

I don't like it. The entire "Stephen" doesn't look right.

John

What doesn't look right? Explain.


Thumbs down.

Why? Explain.

I find it funny that you guys are self proclaimed "experts," but you don't offer any specific insights to your claims. You are all entitled to your opinions, but I'd expect you guys to actually post something of value if you are going to call out a signature to be fake.

[jhanic]

The name looks too squashed. The last name is really a bit off too-- the "g" doesn't look right.

And I'm not calling it a fake. It just doesn't look right to me. I wouldn't even consider buying it.

John

[Room 217 Caretaker]

I don't like it. The entire "Stephen" doesn't look right.

John

What doesn't look right? Explain.


Thumbs down.

Why? Explain.

I find it funny that you guys are self proclaimed "experts," but you don't offer any specific insights to your claims. You are all entitled to your opinions, but I'd expect you guys to actually post something of value if you are going to call out a signature to be fake.

Very interesting post there. Where does anyone say FAKE as you claim. Some of us clearly said WE DON'T LIKE IT. Show where someone said FAKE.

[redsoxfan565]

Shouldn't this (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RICHARD-BACHMAN-REGULATORS-BOOK-/150489887807?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item2309e5743f) be signed by Richard Bachman rather than SK?

Also interesting that the "supersize image" is the same small size as the thumbnail.

Agreed. From this angle I don't like the swoop (doesn't look smooth). A more straight on close-up of the sig is needed.


http://www.nicksportsautographs.com/ebay/pics/Celeb/book/kingregu.JPG

[redsoxfan565]

I don't like it. The entire "Stephen" doesn't look right.

John

What doesn't look right? Explain.


Thumbs down.

Why? Explain.

I find it funny that you guys are self proclaimed "experts," but you don't offer any specific insights to your claims. You are all entitled to your opinions, but I'd expect you guys to actually post something of value if you are going to call out a signature to be fake.

Very interesting post there. Where does anyone say FAKE as you claim. Some of us clearly said WE DON'T LIKE IT. Show where someone said FAKE.

The item was posted into the eBay BS Game: Questionable items, signatures, sellers.

If you understand logic, by saying you "don't like something" "Thumbs down" or saying "it doesn't look right to me" that is the same thing as if someone had said "The Item is fake"

[jhanic]

Again, compare this "Stephen" with ANY of the signatures on signed limited books and you'll see there's a BIG difference between the two.

John

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Much better scan. Thanks, As I said above. The swoop off the N looks added after.

REAL or NOT it wouldn't sit in my collection. Again, I simply don't like. As you said. We are entitled to our own opinion.

[biomieg]

No offense Redsoxfan, but a little politeness wouldn't hurt.

As for recognizing a signature as fake (or real): you seem to be someone who's quite knowledgeable in the field so I'm sure you know that (unless there are blatant and obvious graphological differences with established true sigs such as those found in signed/limited books), it's often a matter of 'it doesn't feel right' without being able to pinpoint what exactly it is that doesn't feel right. Seeing lots of King sigs over the years will help you establish a mental reference image of what it's supposed to look like.

[redsoxfan565]

Again, compare this "Stephen" with ANY of the signatures on signed limited books and you'll see there's a BIG difference between the two.

John

http://i.ebayimg.com/05/!CB,hU7!EWk~$(KGrHqF,!hMEzetyBM+IBNHjC7w02g~~_12.J PG

Again, you need to explain yourself. The formation of the letters, placement of letters, "swoosh," are exactly the same as this recent limited edition. The item in question was signed in the summer of 2010, matching the timeframe.

[biomieg]

I don't like it. The entire "Stephen" doesn't look right.

John

What doesn't look right? Explain.


Thumbs down.

Why? Explain.

I find it funny that you guys are self proclaimed "experts," but you don't offer any specific insights to your claims. You are all entitled to your opinions, but I'd expect you guys to actually post something of value if you are going to call out a signature to be fake.

Very interesting post there. Where does anyone say FAKE as you claim. Some of us clearly said WE DON'T LIKE IT. Show where someone said FAKE.

The item was posted into the eBay BS Game: Questionable items, signatures, sellers.

If you understand logic, by saying you "don't like something" "Thumbs down" or saying "it doesn't look right to me" that is the same thing as if someone had said "The Item is fake"

A couple of new posts were posted when I was replying, so I'll add this to reinforce what the others said (which conforms with what I said in my previous post). In many cases it's about 'liking' and 'feeling'. Even if such a sig happens to be the real deal, no collector will want it in his or her collection. You may not like this but that's the way it is.

[Patrick]

Shouldn't this (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-SIGNED-RICHARD-BACHMAN-REGULATORS-BOOK-/150489887807?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item2309e5743f) be signed by Richard Bachman rather than SK?

Also interesting that the "supersize image" is the same small size as the thumbnail.
It's my auction, and I would be glad to get you a better scan. I have been getting Stephen for the past couple of years, and while extremely difficult, he isn't impossible to get on earlier books/different items. No idea why you actually feel it is fake though, you didn't seem to give a legitimate reason.
Personally I never called it a fake. This thread is for "questionable items," and I had questions as you can see from my original post.

I commend you for posting zoomed-in photos here, in my personal opinion that enhances credibility. If you have not done so already, I would recommend adding those to the auction itself.

On a side note, to address some of your other posts:

Most (None?) of us have never claimed to be experts, although certainly some are more educated than others of us.

Items posted in this thread are sometimes thought to be fake, sometimes they are thought to be valid. It is not a foregone conclusion every time.

We all understand that everyone in this thread is posting their personal opinion, nothing more.

[Randall Flagg]

The picture is too low resolution to give a thumbs up.
I don't like the loop at the bottom of the "S'. It has a larger loop (opening) than I am accustomed to seeing.

I am not saying it is a fake, I just don't can't give it a thumbs up.

I have put it side by side with a couple of King signatures from JAS. IF it were higher resolution I might be able to endorse it. I rendered an opinion as to my liking the signature.
The side by side actually helps your assertion that it is legit. If I am mistaken, it is only my own opinion.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/8969/kingjassigcompare.jpg

http://www.nicksportsautographs.com/ebay/pics/Celeb/book/kingregu.JPG
EDIT:
As I was putting this together higher resolution pictures and several posts were added.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/medium/Side_by_Side_Signatures.jpg

[Randall Flagg]

No offense Redsoxfan, but a little politeness wouldn't hurt.


I don't feel he has been rude, just a bit defensive. One of the nice parts about this community is there are very few flaming sessions, and quite a lot of passionate, but respectful debates.

[redsoxfan565]

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/medium/Side_by_Side_Signatures.jpg

Your argument is based off a point in the signature, not the whole signature. I am also not completely understanding your argument. Your argument says that the swoosh looks forced, but had the last hump before my swoosh been higher, than it would be exactly the same. The Swoosh is started at the bottom of the last hump, which is exactly where it is in the limited. Your argument says the bottom one would be forced as well. If you look at the Just After Sunset books above, those have distinct areas where before the swoosh, King made it drmatic and took it further to the right before starting the swoosh.

My book in question was also not signed when he was sitting down, making the signature more of a rushed signature, which could account for the humps not being bigger. If you notice, the formation of the letters, the slant, are both in the same fashion. And it may be tough to tell, but King does not like to use other people's writing instruments and insists on using his own pen most of the time because of his OCD. This is consistent with other books signed by him at book signings.

[redsoxfan565]

No offense Redsoxfan, but a little politeness wouldn't hurt.


I don't feel he has been rude, just a bit defensive. One of the nice parts about this community is there are very few flaming sessions, and quite a lot of passionate, but respectful debates.

Defensive is correct, as anyone would be when numerous people question the authenticity of one's item.

[Randall Flagg]

I think you have presented your thoughts in an cogent fashion and thank you and the other collectors for not flaming one another.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/medium/Side_by_Side_Signatures.jpg

Your argument is based off a point in the signature, not the whole signature. I am also not completely understanding your argument. Your argument says that the swoosh looks forced, but had the last hump before my swoosh been higher, than it would be exactly the same. The Swoosh is started at the bottom of the last hump, which is exactly where it is in the limited. Your argument says the bottom one would be forced as well. If you look at the Just After Sunset books above, those have distinct areas where before the swoosh, King made it drmatic and took it further to the right before starting the swoosh.

I've been collecting King since 1980, studying his signature since the early 90's (that seems to be when we started seeing a few fakes show up, and now we see them all the time). So to answer your question, yes, I'm basing it off a single point in the signature. I've seen some very good fakes but sometimes it only takes one little point to make it questionable. I don't buy questionable, period. When in doubt I don't pull my wallet out.

Mulleins

[redsoxfan565]

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/medium/Side_by_Side_Signatures.jpg

Your argument is based off a point in the signature, not the whole signature. I am also not completely understanding your argument. Your argument says that the swoosh looks forced, but had the last hump before my swoosh been higher, than it would be exactly the same. The Swoosh is started at the bottom of the last hump, which is exactly where it is in the limited. Your argument says the bottom one would be forced as well. If you look at the Just After Sunset books above, those have distinct areas where before the swoosh, King made it drmatic and took it further to the right before starting the swoosh.

I've been collecting King since 1980, studying his signature since the early 90's (that seems to be when we started seeing a few fakes show up, and now we see them all the time). So to answer your question, yes, I'm basing it off a single point in the signature. I've seen some very good fakes but sometimes it only takes one little point to make it questionable. I don't buy questionable, period. When in doubt I don't pull my wallet out.

Mulleins

The point is in the exact same spot. What you are now questioning is the extension of the hump. Like I said, if the last hump was bigger, the definition of the swoosh would be clearer. The point at which you say the swoosh is started is the same, both are at the bottom of the last hump.

Most of my books are not obtained at book signings, which King usually refuses to do outside items at anyways. Signatures will differ slightly, and yes this appears to be a very slight difference (humps are not bigger and not more defined).

And, you have already stated you will not purchase anything from me anyways, so you saying you won't purchase from me, is a moot point.

[Sam]

The formation is not the same. The swoosh curls up higher and is much lighter in the middle which shows less pressure in the middle of the swoosh. That could be just the pen though. But the "ephen" in Stephen looks much sloppier in your auction piece than in this one. The entire word looks more like "Strpern than Stephen", not that his is a legible prize either. However, the letters are more spread out and thus look squashed or flatter. Had I seen the two examples side by side and been asked my opinion, I would have said this of the two. The sig in the Regulators book is either a bad looking legitimate signature or a halfway decent fake, and I wouldn't want either one. Of the Full Dark signature I would have said it looks consistent with most of the signatures that I have seen of King's within the last three years and appears legit. Also, being in a numbered edition put out by a publisher doesn't hurt the confirmation of the legitimacy of the signature.

You said the sig is yours and you saw it obtained. So what you have is a bad looking legitimate signature that I wouldn't want to have in my collection. The only way I would want it is if I obtained it myself and for my own collection. Just my thoughts.

[Brice]

I'm no expert at all, but I wouldn't purchase it on the grounds that the look of that sig might rub off on my other signed books and make them look like that one.

[redsoxfan565]

The formation is not the same. The swoosh curls up higher and is much lighter in the middle which shows less pressure in the middle of the swoosh. That could be just the pen though. But the "ephen" in Stephen looks much sloppier in your auction piece than in this one. The entire word looks more like "Strpern than Stephen", not that his is a legible prize either. However, the letters are more spread out and thus look squashed or flatter. Had I seen the two examples side by side and been asked my opinion, I would have said this of the two. The sig in the Regulators book is either a bad looking legitimate signature or a halfway decent fake, and I wouldn't want either one. Of the Full Dark signature I would have said it looks consistent with most of the signatures that I have seen of King's within the last three years and appears legit. Also, being in a numbered edition put out by a publisher doesn't hurt the confirmation of the legitimacy of the signature.

You said the sig is yours and you saw it obtained. So what you have is a bad looking legitimate signature that I wouldn't want to have in my collection. The only way I would want it is if I obtained it myself and for my own collection. Just my thoughts.

The formation is the same. The Swoosh is proportionate to the letters. Meaning, the letters are smaller, thus the swoosh is going to be smaller as well. If you notice the height and placement of the swoosh it is fairly exact to that in the limited; i.e. where it crosses and again being proportionate to the letters.

Again, the items I have signed by King are not signed in the same setting that most will get a signature from King in. The signatures will be rushed, and will be sloppier than books signed at a formal signing.

[Patrick]

I think you have presented your thoughts in an cogent fashion and thank you and the other collectors for not flaming one another.
I agree on both points!

[thegreattim]

Most of my books are not obtained at book signings, which King usually refuses to do outside items at anyways. Signatures will differ slightly, and yes this appears to be a very slight difference (humps are not bigger and not more defined).

This is a totally open and honest question (as I'm staying out of the particular legitimacy debates) and comes only from a curiousness (and maybe jealous!) of your signature sources. Most of us seem to get sigs only from promotion tour stops and S/Ls... If you don't mind saying, where do you acquire yours from?

[biomieg]

No offense Redsoxfan, but a little politeness wouldn't hurt.


I don't feel he has been rude, just a bit defensive. One of the nice parts about this community is there are very few flaming sessions, and quite a lot of passionate, but respectful debates.

Maybe it's because English isn't my first language but his post just rubbed me the wrong way. In my opinion, a nice discussion starts with asking someone if he can please elaborate as to why his opinion differs from yours, instead of calling people 'self-proclaimed experts' and demanding an explanation ('Explain'.).

Also, looking back at Redsoxfan's posting history made it seem to me as if he only comes out of hibernation in order to get engaged in discussions about the legitimacy of signatures, and 'defensiveness' is his rule rather than exception.

But I apologize if I came across the wrong way :)

[Brice]

The thing is noone here is calling it fake, they're just saying they wouldn't want it. He's defending it based on the little idiosyncracies of how it looks when while that does matter ultimately it's the sig's overall appearance that inclines one to say so. The whys really don't matter much unless it is fake. It's really just aesthetics.

Biomieg-furthering one of your points...he generally only is concerned with our dislike of the signatures he lists from what I see.

It doesn't matter if it's rushed or fake or whatever reason. It doesn't look good to me. I also probably wouldn't want a book some nurse stuck in his face after his accident while he was on a morphine high. :lol:

[biomieg]

Biomieg-furthering one of your points...he generally only is concerned with our dislike of the signatures he lists from what I see.

Maybe that's why I had a bit of an issue with his posts - generally, it's easier (for me!) to engage in a respectful discussion when you 'know' someone, in this case that would be anyone who appears to be genuinely interested in TDT.org and everything it stands for and who actively participates in the various threads... not someone who only uses the forum to defend the authenticity of his eBay listings.

I guess I should stop interfering now... I'm not even in the market for signed King books after all :)

[Patrick]

... I also probably wouldn't want a book some nurse stuck in his face after his accident while he was on a morphine high. :lol:
Unless SK added the date when he signed it. That would be worth something.

:P

[Niels]

Handsigned Dolores Claiborne, anyone? Modest BIN of $471,-

http://img.auctiva.com/imgdata/8/3/8/7/4/6/webimg/419190099_o.jpg

http://cgi.ebay.ie/Stephen-King-Hand-Signed-Dolores-Claiborne-1-1-D-J-/380307288055?pt=Fiction&hash=item588c14aff7

[thegreattim]

Handsigned by someone! :doh:

[jhanic]

I don't like it whatsoever!

John

[Randall Flagg]

I won't say it's a fake....but I wouldn't want it for free.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

I won't say it's a fake....but I wouldn't want it for free.

Haha....I'll say it.......it's a fake. Not even a good one.

[Niels]

Nobody caught my sarcasm? Even my 3 year old daughter would trace it better.

[Tito_Villa]

Thoughts on this please ... http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Stephen-King-Liseys-Story-Signed_W0QQitemZ260722490713QQcategoryZ171230QQcmd ZViewItemQQ_trksidZp5197.m7QQ_trkparmsZalgo%3DLVI% 26itu%3DUCI%26otn%3D5%26po%3DLVI%26ps%3D63%26clkid %3D6501220044928455423

[Pasiuk57]

Re:Lisey's Story
nope

[Randall Flagg]

Niels,
It was caught.:P

Lisey's Story-pretty ugly.

[Tito_Villa]

They seem 100% possative that its real!

[Mr. Rabbit Trick]

It's a REAL fake then!

[jhanic]

I have a couple signed trades from that same signing and none of them resembles this in the least. A terrible fake.

John

[east-tennessee]

This one actually looks good to me, but where is the swoop through Stephen.
I've seen a few early signatures on a Salems Lot without the swoop that were legit but not from 1980...
What do you guys think?

http://i.ebayimg.com/10/!CD,2syQ!2k~$(KGrHqUOKpwE0Vqn+umhBNOfUumpCw~~_3.JP G

[east-tennessee]

A legit one from the same time period.........

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/506/medium/Firestarter_sig_page.JPG

[CurtSeattle]

Doesn't he always have the "swoosh" from the "n" back around to cross the "t" like east-tennessee's?

[biomieg]

No, King's earlier sig was definitely like the one in the first picture.

[carlosdetweiller]

This one actually looks good to me, but where is the swoop through Stephen.
I've seen a few early signatures on a Salems Lot without the swoop that were legit but not from 1980...
What do you guys think?


I think that this one is just fine. One of the things I noticed over the years is that King started "swooping" when he signed his full name of Stephen but usually didn't when he signed as Steve. Signing as Steve was usually to someone he knew and probably was taking more time with his inscription/signature. Whatever the reason this example looks like a very nice, legit, unhurried inscription and I would put it in my collection without reservation.

[shibus]

I agree completely Bob, So I did.

[olverts]

What do you guys think of this ?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250760573956&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[Randall Flagg]

I like it.

[Patrick]

Looks fine to me too.

[carlosdetweiller]

What do you guys think of this ?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250760573956&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

There is something about it that I don't like. For one, it comes with a certificate of authenticity. That alone raises my suspicions. The entire "Stephen" looks suspect to me. The letters are spaced out more evenly than in King's real signature. Can't be anymore specific than that. I'm not saying it is definitely a fake. It could be real but I have significant doubts about it.

[Patrick]

And that in a nutshell exemplifies why I don't buy flatsigned books unless I know the seller.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

What do you guys think of this ?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250760573956&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

There is something about it that I don't like. For one, it comes with a certificate of authenticity. That alone raises my suspicions. The entire "Stephen" looks suspect to me. The letters are spaced out more evenly than in King's real signature. Can't be anymore specific than that. I'm not saying it is definitely a fake. It could be real but I have significant doubts about it.

I'm not saying it's fake but highly suspect. Could be the pen used. Under microscope the line actually looks drawn first. Not fake, just highly suspect:

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/medium/Bad_Signature.jpg

Mulleins

[Brice]

Doesn't Auto signed suggest an autopen was used (and then it wouldn't be a signature really)? Or am I misunderstanding.

[CurtSeattle]

RALPH! Wow! That is GREAT analysis!!!! I have to agree now that I look at it really closely and with your pointers. The pause/pressure points are sooooo telling!!! Maybe one time during a signing of a book b/c of a hand shift or something or a hurried scribble when a fan ninja asks for an autograph. But multiple (looks like 5-7 of them) during ONE signature???

Not sure if I should post this somewhere else or not, but look what I just found at the local used book store on the way home from Home Depot just now! Was there so my girl could get Chelsea Lately's new book, was only checking these to see if they were 1st/1st b/c I'm missing them and I got a little surprise. These signature in Elfstones and ElfQueen of Shannara look really close compared to Terry Brooks signatures online....your thoughts.....real.....OR FAKE!?

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/3750/imag0276w.th.jpg (http://img217.imageshack.us/i/imag0276w.jpg/)

http://img573.imageshack.us/img573/1619/imag0275.th.jpg (http://img573.imageshack.us/i/imag0275.jpg/)

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Doesn't Auto signed suggest an autopen was used (and then it wouldn't be a signature really)? Or am I misunderstanding.

Brice

Great question and one that raises a debate.

Mechanical signatures (auto-pen) most often are those produced without the direct aid of the human hand. Signatures produced by auto-pens (writing machines), and offset printing are examples of mechanical signatures. These signatures may be legally genuine when their use has been authorized by the signature holder.

Example of an auto-penned book being sold as a signed first edition by Harper Collins:

http://www.thedarktower.org/gallery/data/668/medium/Auto-Penned.jpg

[carlosdetweiller]

Easton Press used the auto-pen for one of Michael Crichton's books. Crichton said the subsequent backlash of collector discontent convinced him to never to it again. I've forgotten exactly which Easton book it was.

[CurtSeattle]

I was looking through Justin Cronin's various signed books that I have and online and I wondered if any were "stamped", but I didn't realize there are machines that sign for the authors. My CD Limited initially struck me that way actually. Not saying that was the case or anything, but for a 2nd i was surprised and then I actually went to my personalized copies of The Passage and checked them against each other. Minor differences made me feel better. hehehe!

Wow...that's a letdown. If you are too busy to actually sign the book, then don't have it signed I say. It strikes me as a way to pseudo-trick the masses as the vast majority will never know it was not hand-signed. Seriously, like 95% would have no clue. False advertising in my opinion. The irony strikes me that a politician is the example above (no plug for or knock on Palin so don't go there). :)

[Room 217 Caretaker]

I know Jurassic Park Gift Edition was Auto-Penned. Worth about $40 in collectors shape.

Very collectible though because of the clear jacket with a T-Rex on the front.

I never new about the Easton Press edition. Running to The Closet to check out my signed Crichton's by Easton.

[carlosdetweiller]

Maybe it was the Jurassic Park gift edition that I was thinking about. I'll bet it was.

[Randall Flagg]

Easton Press used the auto-pen for one of Michael Crichton's books. Crichton said the subsequent backlash of collector discontent convinced him to never to it again. I've forgotten exactly which Easton book it was.

Jurassic park Gift edition. It had a tipped in "signature" page and was advertised as "Signed edition". A whoops moment for the publisher. I owned one and sold it on ebay years ago-with full disclosure. It was a gorgeous "reproduction" of Crichton's signature, done in blue pen ink (at least that is how it looked). Also had a glassine page preceding the signature page (or perhaps it was the book wrapper-memory fades on this one).

Edit=Yes, it had the clear acetate cover with a t-rex etched/printed/lasered on it.
Thanks to mulleins.

http://www.berserkerbooks.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/product/jurassicparkgift560.jpg

[Fsmdr]

This auto-pen discussion is certainly interesting!. Thanks for sharing the info, Jerome and Ralph.

[Patrick]

Two things I hate are the auto-pen and the auto-tune microphone.

[Brice]

While I'm completely against the autopens. I can think of some singers which I wish would use every tool they can to improve their singing...or not sing at all.

I think a company should always tell when an autopen was used. In fact I think even calling them signatures is disengenuous as hell.

[east-tennessee]

While I'm completely against the autopens. I can think of some singers which I wish would use every tool they can to improve their singing...or not sing at all.

I think a company should always tell when an autopen was used. In fact I think even calling them signatures is disengenuous as hell.

I've never heard of this autopen, totally agree that it should be disclosed,,,,,

Brian,,,,,,,

[ELazansky]

All of this autopen talk has got me wondering about all of these "Signed First Edition" books that are "specially bound by the publisher." The UK version of The Passage which had, I believe, 5000 copies produced. Is Cronin's signature legit in those editions? He was very busy when the book came out, so did he have time to sign 5000 pages? Horns had the similar pre-signed page, but I think it was only around 1100 copies or so. Since it seems that Joe signs just about anything and everything, I'm leaning towards those being more legit. I think I am going to start staying away from the pre-signed items and stick to either s/l copies or flatsigned at a book signing

[Room 217 Caretaker]

All of this autopen talk has got me wondering about all of these "Signed First Edition" books that are "specially bound by the publisher." The UK version of The Passage which had, I believe, 5000 copies produced. Is Cronin's signature legit in those editions? He was very busy when the book came out, so did he have time to sign 5000 pages? Horns had the similar pre-signed page, but I think it was only around 1100 copies or so. Since it seems that Joe signs just about anything and everything, I'm leaning towards those being more legit. I think I am going to start staying away from the pre-signed items and stick to either s/l copies or flatsigned at a book signing

I can put your mind at ease with the Cronin & Hill question:

1. Yes, Justin personally signed all 5000 UK pages before bound into book. I have a good friend that was behind closed doors with him during this process.

NOTE: The US also released a signed edition with a sticker on the front stating signed. I can't vouch for that one. Maybe someone here can.

2. Joe personally signed every copy of Horns.

I do understand your fear. Here recently I've seen books show up on shelves in Borders, Walmart, etc. stating Signed Edition with sticker. Is it real or Auto-Penned? The publishing industry needs to step up and state the truth and not the legal wording "a non-genuine signature may be legally genuine when their use has been authorized by the signature holder".

If the book wasn't touched by the author, it's not a real signature in my signed collection. I've had to send a few Ebay emails to people selling the King UK gift editions (facsimile signatures) as actually signed.

The Auto-Pen topic is an ongoing conversation between a group of Ebay book collectors I'm part of. Funny thing is, one of the members is an editor from a major publisher and has been very quiet on this topic. I wonder why?

Mulleins

[ELazansky]

Thanks for the info, Ralph. I thought the Hill ones were good because every picture I saw seemed to have a slightly different doodle, etc. I'm glad to hear the Passage copies are good as well.

5000 pages to sign...that must have been brutal...

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Thanks for the info, Ralph. I thought the Hill ones were good because every picture I saw seemed to have a slightly different doodle, etc. I'm glad to hear the Passage copies are good as well.

5000 pages to sign...that must have been brutal...

Brutal indeed. My hand cramps at a loan/refinancing closing and that's only 20 pages or so to sign.

[Mr. Rabbit Trick]

Doodles, drawings etc can be done by the autopen, as well as signatures.
Whatever the author does at his location, is exactly replicated at the location of the book. This can be thousands of miles away.

[ELazansky]

I know the doodles can be autopenned as well - what I meant was I've seen many different versions of the Horns sig page, and they are different, so I assumed they were legit. Here are three examples:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Joe-Hill-SIGNED-Horns-1-1-DOODLE-tipped-page-/180577514240?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item2a0b423300
http://cgi.ebay.com/Joe-Hill-SIGNED-Horns-1-1-DOODLE-tipped-page-/400166281813?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item5d2bc4e255
http://cgi.ebay.com/Joe-Hill-SIGNED-Horns-1-1-DOODLE-tipped-page-/400107618066?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item5d2845bf12

My copy is different from these three:
http://i1196.photobucket.com/albums/aa411/ELazansky/Books/HornsUS-LimPage.jpg

[WeDealInLead]

Are those UK signed editions signed by King on a sticker or just photocopied in colour and pasted on the sig page? If it's the former, I'd say that's more of a legit signed edition than an auto-penned one.

[CurtSeattle]

My rule has always been.....

If the author isn't touching the pen and writing it by hand, then it shall not be considered an actual legitimate signature "signed in person". The only exception is if the author has telekinesis, in which case, the author may use his (or her) mind to control the pen and sign the proffered object. Author must be within line of sight of said object being autographed or it shall not be considered an actual legitimate signature "signed in person".

[jhanic]

You mean the copy of Firestarter I have that's signed by Charlie McGee is legit? :P

John

[Stockerlone]

But i think Joe Hill is realy a big exception. When i meet him last year at the one and only German sig. event,
i ask him if its possible to sign a LOT of books for me, because i have a big order list from collectors all arround the world. He says: No problem ... and started to sign an doodle, he changes his pen for sig some comics, he
doodles all books, comics and posters and marks some books with differend sentences like: KILL KILL KILL. Rock on.....

During his signing, i excused me for his BIG work, an he say´s... YES, signing some books is a really hard work:onfire:.


But Cronin´s 5000 sig..... brutal.....

[Patrick]

Are those UK signed editions signed by King on a sticker or just photocopied in colour and pasted on the sig page? If it's the former, I'd say that's more of a legit signed edition than an auto-penned one.
This is in reference to the H&S limited editions.
Some are his actual signature on bookplates pasted into the book. Some are facsimile signatures with a slightly different bookplate.
Some UK limited editions only came in the real S/L. Others had the facsimile gift editions.

My advice is to check out the King Catalog here (or The Collector's site) to familiarize yourself with a UK limited edition before buying on eBay to ensure you get what you think you are getting because some eBay sellers are misleading either purposefully or out of ignorance.


On the Joe Hill topic: My understanding is that he does not use the auto-pen on any signed editions, but perhaps the next time someone sees him, they can confirm.

[Mr. Rabbit Trick]

Easy guide for UK S/Ls. Blue ink = facsimile. Black ink = King signed.

[tippy4]

What is this?

Is this a legit signature, or some machine gererated piece of crap?

AUTO SIGNED GREEN MILE (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250760573956&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT)

[Randall Flagg]

I think that was discussed earlier upthread, or in the Interesting Ebay auctions thread. Somehow the seller glommed onto the "Autopen" topicality.

[Brice]

I think that's the one that started this auto signing discussion.

[Rahfa]

Very odd. The signature actually looks okay at first glance (but there were flaws pointed out a few posts ago)....Why would anyone 'autopen' Part Four? Unless the seller knows this is a forgery and is just using the auto-pen claim as a way to say "hey, I didn't say it was real."

[MLG]

When Joe Hill was signing at Powell's books in Portland there was a pretty good crowd. He stated up front that he would sign all items but asked anyone with over three items to allow those with three items or less to go first so would not have to wait too long. He took the time to speak with, in many cases take pictures with and doodle throughout. A very gracious man. On a side note he spent the morning of the signing in Portland going around town and signing the books on the shelves of several book stores.

[carlosdetweiller]

Very odd. The signature actually looks okay at first glance (but there were flaws pointed out a few posts ago)....Why would anyone 'autopen' Part Four? Unless the seller knows this is a forgery and is just using the auto-pen claim as a way to say "hey, I didn't say it was real."

I must be missing something. Many of the seller's other auctions have "AUTO" in the auction title but I think that is just his shorthand for "autographed." I can't see where the seller states it is anything other than a legit autograph. Or is it just some of us here on this website that have made the erroneous leap to think that this is an auto-pen signature? How did we get to this point? I'm confused.
I'm pretty sure it is a forgery. Nothing more, nothing less.

[jhanic]

That's the way I understood it also. Auto=autographed. As to whether it's a fake or not, I think it very well could be (I wouldn't want it in my collection).

John

[Bev Vincent]

I've never heard of King making use of an autopen.

[Room 217 Caretaker]

Very odd. The signature actually looks okay at first glance (but there were flaws pointed out a few posts ago)....Why would anyone 'autopen' Part Four? Unless the seller knows this is a forgery and is just using the auto-pen claim as a way to say "hey, I didn't say it was real."

I must be missing something. Many of the seller's other auctions have "AUTO" in the auction title but I think that is just his shorthand for "autographed." I can't see where the seller states it is anything other than a legit autograph. Or is it just some of us here on this website that have made the erroneous leap to think that this is an auto-pen signature? How did we get to this point? I'm confused.
I'm pretty sure it is a forgery. Nothing more, nothing less.


That's the way I understood it also. Auto=autographed. As to whether it's a fake or not, I think it very well could be (I wouldn't want it in my collection).

John

Agreed, the seller used Auto but meant autographed.

We just used Brices question further up to start the discussion on Auto-Pen.

Sorry about that. We should have answered the question first before starting the Auto-Pen discussion. I take full blame.

Mulleins

[Brice]

...and I take that blame away from Ralph. I was just wondering if where he said AUTO signed in the listing he meant it was by autopen....so the confusion was started by me.

[Rahfa]

Hahaha....the confusion makes a lot more sense....even when I read the listing, it never clicked that 'auto-pen' wasn't part of it.

[Randall Flagg]

Very odd. The signature actually looks okay at first glance (but there were flaws pointed out a few posts ago)....Why would anyone 'autopen' Part Four? Unless the seller knows this is a forgery and is just using the auto-pen claim as a way to say "hey, I didn't say it was real."

I must be missing something. Many of the seller's other auctions have "AUTO" in the auction title but I think that is just his shorthand for "autographed." I can't see where the seller states it is anything other than a legit autograph. Or is it just some of us here on this website that have made the erroneous leap to think that this is an auto-pen signature? How did we get to this point? I'm confused.
I'm pretty sure it is a forgery. Nothing more, nothing less.

The mistake is mine.
<--------------------Feels dumb, not realizing AUTO was short for "autographed".
<--------------------Feels worse having said I "like the signature". I still like it, but having heard and seen evidence that it "may be a forgery", I would not recommend it.

[Fsmdr]

It's interesting to me how we are able to determine the validity of the signature only because the seller has included such a clear and large scan of the autograph in question. Had the seller taken a photograph instead, it would have been very difficult to ascertain the issue (those pressure points would not be legible). How many sellers out there post such clear scans of autographs?.

[olverts]

This one seems a little bit weird :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Tommyknockers-1987-stephen-king-signed-/130481059200?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item1e6146f580

[jhanic]

This one seems a little bit weird :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Tommyknockers-1987-stephen-king-signed-/130481059200?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item1e6146f580

It's not really signed by King; that's just his signature stamped into the cover. This was fairly common back then.

John

[Room 217 Caretaker]

This one seems a little bit weird :)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Tommyknockers-1987-stephen-king-signed-/130481059200?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item1e6146f580

It's not really signed by King; that's just his signature stamped into the cover. This was fairly common back then.

John

On occasion I believe his signature stamp on the printed books was used for carbon paper transfers or shading transfers of his signature. In other words, let's say I use a #2 graphite pencil, trace his signature on the book heavily with the pencil, press down a sheet of paper and lift the signature. It shows up light but enough to use a heavy felt type pen to trace over and have a signature. It's never a smooth signature but fools some people.

I've seen a couple fakes with a light trace of pencil underneath.

Mulleins

[shibus]

What's the consensus on this one?

http://usera.ImageCave.com/shibus/King%20001.JPG

[carlosdetweiller]

Not even close.

[shibus]

My observation as well. I have a ABAA Book seller who is trying to stand behind it. With a "detailed" history of their reputation. And with me being just a Dumbass Fireman my words mean little to them . Fortunately, my skin is thick and the signature is not King's so all is well in the world. Thanx Bob

[Rahfa]

So it's supposed to be King signing as Bachman?

I agree, not close...the inscription's style doesn't seem to match any similar, legit inscriptions.

[Randall Flagg]

I thought Bachman was dead. How could he sign something after his passing?:evil:

[jhanic]

Thumbs down.

John

[shibus]

So it's supposed to be King signing as Bachman?



That's what he's saying. Vehemently

[carlosdetweiller]

I have a ABAA Book seller who is trying to stand behind it.

ABAA booksellers are generally very reliable professionals but they are not always the best at judging signatures. I've come across quite a few over the years that have listed terrible forgeries as legit King signatures. Just off the top of my head I can think of Baumann Rare Books, Between The Covers, Ken Sanders and (I'm pretty sure) Quill & Brush. I've seen the occasional clunker listed from all of these. I think that the members of this forum are the best judges of King signatures.

[redsoxfan565]

Just an FYI, when I got my copy of the Regulators signed, I asked King to inscribe it Richard Bachman, and he kindly refused saying he doesn't do that. Whether or not he has ever signed them Bachman, or anything else like that, I have no idea. Judging by the personalization, I would say that this is not his handwriting.

[marc]

i found a seller on EBay who's selling first edition/first prints of Dolores Claiborne, The girl who loved Tom Gordon. From a Buick 8 and Bag of bones for only about $5 a piece (excluding shipping costs). The seller says they're all in (very) good condition including DJ. Being new to all of this "first edition stuff" I was wondering if this can be true. Any thoughts? The seller is "cherish's book store".

[jhanic]

Could you supply a link to these auctions? I do have to say, however, that those books had initial first printings of more than 1 million copies each, so the price isn't completely out-of-line. They are very common. I'd make sure the condition was tops, though.

John

[biomieg]

Unless there are good photos available I would be careful when the description days 'good' or 'very good'. In every-day use you would be happy with something described as good or very good but when it comes to grading books, 'good' is actually only so-so.


F - Fine

As free from defects as possible.

Books and dust jackets graded as Fine look like they have just come from the printer. These are virtually new books also, but perhaps have been opened or on a shelf. You will be hard pressed to find many used books in this condition.

NF - Near Fine

Minor defects, light wear, generally no open tears to dust jacket. (When I say open tears, I mean those that are not closed by themselves. Small closed tears (say less than 1/2 inch), while they must be disclosed, are allowable in Near Fine books.

These books and dust jackets are much better than the average used book but they may be slightly scuffed. Please note that a Near Fine book can have other types of flaws. For example, a bookplate or a previous owner’s name written in the book are flaws but in an otherwise Fine book, the book may be rated as Near Fine. All flaws must be disclosed.

VG - Very Good

Show some signs of wear, some, perhaps more than one, closed tears, light soiling of pages or scuffing of dust jacket, etc.

This is the average used book after it has been read and passed from one reader to another. All major flaws such as loose bindings, slanted spines, or other damage (especially water damage) must be disclosed.

G - Good

This is commonly termed a "Reading Copy". It may be good for hauling to the beach to read, but contains flaws like rips and stains. Heavily worn, in other words.

This is the average used book after it has been read and passed through many people’s hands and not protected correctly. It may be sun faded, the spine may be slanted from improper storage, and the spine may actually be broken.


You must always make sure whether or not a seller uses standard book grading as described above (fine/very good/etc.). And if you're interested in true first editions/first printings, check the identifiers that are provided in the King Collectibles Catalog on this website (stuff like price on the DJ, number line on the copyright page) and if they are not visible in the photo and/or described by the seller: send him an email and ask.

Also, as you evolve as a book collector you may develop a preference for either US editions or UK editions (or both). So it doesn't hurt knowing what the US and UK books look like :)

[marc]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270700386211&ssPageName=ADME:X:AAQ:US:1123 this the link for Tom Gordon. Any idea what "Text Edge: Black mark" means?

Other links: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140507938096&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270659157855&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270701325464&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270701327117&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[biomieg]

The descriptions sound okay (they're not pristine books but for this price you can't really expect them to be). I would ask the seller for actual pictures though - I don't like auctions with stock photos. The 'black mark' on the text edge is a remainder mark:


Usually a ink (Magic Marker) marking made by the publisher or book dealer on the top or bottom of the leaves. This indicates that the book was originally not sold at retail price. There are remainder wholesalers whose whole job is to sell these books to stores at drastically reduced prices. They make very affordable books. All instances of remainder marks must be disclosed.

(this definition and the others I provided are from this website: http://www.the-bookman.com/main/BookGradingExplained.html. It has more definitions that you may find interesting).

[marc]

Unless there are good photos available I would be careful when the description days 'good' or 'very good'. In every-day use you would be happy with something described as good or very good but when it comes to grading books, 'good' is actually only so-so.


F - Fine

As free from defects as possible.

Books and dust jackets graded as Fine look like they have just come from the printer. These are virtually new books also, but perhaps have been opened or on a shelf. You will be hard pressed to find many used books in this condition.

NF - Near Fine

Minor defects, light wear, generally no open tears to dust jacket. (When I say open tears, I mean those that are not closed by themselves. Small closed tears (say less than 1/2 inch), while they must be disclosed, are allowable in Near Fine books.

These books and dust jackets are much better than the average used book but they may be slightly scuffed. Please note that a Near Fine book can have other types of flaws. For example, a bookplate or a previous owner’s name written in the book are flaws but in an otherwise Fine book, the book may be rated as Near Fine. All flaws must be disclosed.

VG - Very Good

Show some signs of wear, some, perhaps more than one, closed tears, light soiling of pages or scuffing of dust jacket, etc.

This is the average used book after it has been read and passed from one reader to another. All major flaws such as loose bindings, slanted spines, or other damage (especially water damage) must be disclosed.

G - Good

This is commonly termed a "Reading Copy". It may be good for hauling to the beach to read, but contains flaws like rips and stains. Heavily worn, in other words.

This is the average used book after it has been read and passed through many people’s hands and not protected correctly. It may be sun faded, the spine may be slanted from improper storage, and the spine may actually be broken.


You must always make sure whether or not a seller uses standard book grading as described above (fine/very good/etc.). And if you're interested in true first editions/first printings, check the identifiers that are provided in the King Collectibles Catalog on this website (stuff like price on the DJ, number line on the copyright page) and if they are not visible in the photo and/or described by the seller: send him an email and ask.

Also, as you evolve as a book collector you may develop a preference for either US editions or UK editions (or both). So it doesn't hurt knowing what the US and UK books look like :)

Thanks, I think these are all US editions, which is what I'm interested in. Based on the seller's description they all sound like they're in good condition (I've sent him an e-mail asking what he meant by shelf wear and text edge: black mark).

[marc]

The descriptions sound okay. I would ask the seller for actual pictures though - I don't like auctions with stock photos. The 'black mark' on the text edge is a remainder mark:


Usually a ink (Magic Marker) marking made by the publisher or book dealer on the top or bottom of the leaves. This indicates that the book was originally not sold at retail price. There are remainder wholesalers whose whole job is to sell these books to stores at drastically reduced prices. They make very affordable books. All instances of remainder marks must be disclosed.

(this definition and the others I provided are from this website: http://www.the-bookman.com/main/BookGradingExplained.html. It has more definitions that you may find interesting).

Would you buy such a marked book? Sounds like it "cheapens" (can't think of a better word) the book.

[biomieg]

I wouldn't but it all depends on how important you think it is that your books look nice and are in 'collectible' condition. My personal experience is that I started without a clue and I just bought whatever came on my path and later, many of the books I had purchased started to annoy me and I had to replace them with nicer copies. Well, of course no one forced me ;) but you know what I mean.

[marc]

Yep, I understand. I feel the same way.

[jhanic]

I personally would not buy a book (especially such a relatively common book) with a remainder mark. If you really want to become a "Stephen King collector" you want the best possible volume for your collection. If you just want to buy the book to read it, this guy's books sound great!

John

[Randall Flagg]

I wouldn't but it all depends on how important you think it is that your books look nice and are in 'collectible' condition. My personal experience is that I started without a clue and I just bought whatever came on my path and later, many of the books I had purchased started to annoy me and I had to replace them with nicer copies. Well, of course no one forced me ;) but you know what I mean.

The most expensive part for collecting these large print run books is the shipping. I sent a 5lb. package to the UK via USPS airmail-$>$44..ouch.

EDIT:
BTW, I have extra copies of all those titles in NF condition.

[tippy4]

What do you guys think of this?

SIGNED WOLVES OF THE CALLA (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-DARK-TOWER-WOLVES-CALLA-SIGNED-1-1-/360345962319?pt=US_Childrens_Books&hash=item53e64b074f)

[carlosdetweiller]

What do you guys think of this?

SIGNED WOLVES OF THE CALLA (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-DARK-TOWER-WOLVES-CALLA-SIGNED-1-1-/360345962319?pt=US_Childrens_Books&hash=item53e64b074f)

Forgery. Easy call.

[Rahfa]

What do you guys think of this?

SIGNED WOLVES OF THE CALLA (http://cgi.ebay.com/STEPHEN-KING-DARK-TOWER-WOLVES-CALLA-SIGNED-1-1-/360345962319?pt=US_Childrens_Books&hash=item53e64b074f)

Forgery. Easy call.

Yup.

[tippy4]

Yeah...I kind of thought so. It is better than most, but i was 99% sure it was bad.

I know the seller.....was hoping I would not have to tell him it was a forgery.

Thanks for confirming my suspicions

[Ben Staad]

Here is a signed Fire Starter my wife bought for me a few years ago:
http://i1203.photobucket.com/albums/bb387/tampatim2003/SKSig.jpg

I always thought it was a fake but I would never tell her that. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks in advance.

By the way this was bought on EBAY but I have no idea who the seller was. Hopefully this is the correct thread for this type of thing.

[jhanic]

It just doesn't look right to me.

John

[thegreattim]

The marker makes it a bit harder to tell, but I don't like it either. Sorry. Like the one Tippy linked to above, it appears there is some hesitation in the beginning of the back swoop.

[Ben Staad]

I also always thought the K and bottom of g looked a little bit funny...almost like someone wasn't sure how to make a cursive K and maybe were a little confused on how to handle the g. Either way I have no provenance for the book so I'm saying it's a fake until I can prove other wise. Thanks for the feedback.

[Rahfa]

I don't like it, wouldn't buy it...but it COULD be real...it's not a blatant forgery, though the style is just not right...

I would be fine believing it's real, and let it mind its business sitting on the bookshelf!

[Ben Staad]

I don't like it, wouldn't buy it...but it COULD be real...it's not a blatant forgery, though the style is just not right...

I would be fine believing it's real, and let it mind its business sitting on the bookshelf!


Sitting here pretending it's real.......because I can't afford a legit signed book!

[WeDealInLead]

I'm not an expert but I'd say there IS a chance it could be real.

[Brice]

I don't like it, wouldn't buy it...but it COULD be real...it's not a blatant forgery, though the style is just not right...

I would be fine believing it's real, and let it mind its business sitting on the bookshelf!



Sitting here pretending it's real.......because I can't afford a legit signed book!

I propose that you believe it's real at least until such time as you can afford to buy one you're certain is real. :)


I honestly don't know myself. A sig has to be a pretty damn blatant fraud for me to be able to tell.

[Ben Staad]

I second the vote. :clap: Great idea Brice!

[Fsmdr]

What do you guys think about this signature?. Even with the provenance, I still do not like the signature:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Stephen-King-First-Trade-Edition-SIGNED-and-MINT-/170606851904?pt=Antiquarian_Collectible&hash=item27b8f5f740

[carlosdetweiller]

No, I don't like it either. It would be nice to see a larger, clearer image though. It reminds me of the forgeries 5 or 6 years ago by an eBay seller named catavan (or something like that). They were pretty good but this reminds me of one of those.

Another red flag, for me, is the relatively low starting price without a reserve. A lot of the forgers do that. Anyone with a real signature wouldn't run the risk of having to sell at a low opening bid. And I find it unlikely that someone would take a fifth printing of any book to a book signing. I know it is done occasionally but, to me, that makes it less likely to be real.

[jhanic]

I'd avoid it also. I COULD be okay, but...

John

[Hutch]

Bob is right. Looks just like the stuff Catevann used to push


No, I don't like it either. It would be nice to see a larger, clearer image though. It reminds me of the forgeries 5 or 6 years ago by an eBay seller named catavan (or something like that). They were pretty good but this reminds me of one of those.

Another red flag, for me, is the relatively low starting price without a reserve. A lot of the forgers do that. Anyone with a real signature wouldn't run the risk of having to sell at a low opening bid. And I find it unlikely that someone would take a fifth printing of any book to a book signing. I know it is done occasionally but, to me, that makes it less likely to be real.

[Rahfa]

Ugh...that looks exactly like one of the two forgeries I fell for several years ago....that isn't the same copy - which I have in a box somewhere mouldering in the basement - but that's the same place where the sig was, and the same style.

It wasn't catevan who I bought from (who I do remember), but someone else without really a rep for forgeries so I had reason to trust it. But, up close, you can see that it's probably traced.

It was an "It" too, though a legit first edition.

[Brice]

No, I don't like it either. It would be nice to see a larger, clearer image though. It reminds me of the forgeries 5 or 6 years ago by an eBay seller named catavan (or something like that). They were pretty good but this reminds me of one of those.

Another red flag, for me, is the relatively low starting price without a reserve. A lot of the forgers do that. Anyone with a real signature wouldn't run the risk of having to sell at a low opening bid. And I find it unlikely that someone would take a fifth printing of any book to a book signing. I know it is done occasionally but, to me, that makes it less likely to be real.

I don't know on that last point, Bob. I mean to a collector a first edition might matter, but to just someone wanting a book signed it might not even occur to them. They might just bring whatever copy of whatever book they like best.

[carlosdetweiller]

No, I don't like it either. It would be nice to see a larger, clearer image though. It reminds me of the forgeries 5 or 6 years ago by an eBay seller named catavan (or something like that). They were pretty good but this reminds me of one of those.

Another red flag, for me, is the relatively low starting price without a reserve. A lot of the forgers do that. Anyone with a real signature wouldn't run the risk of having to sell at a low opening bid. And I find it unlikely that someone would take a fifth printing of any book to a book signing. I know it is done occasionally but, to me, that makes it less likely to be real.

I don't know on that last point, Bob. I mean to a collector a first edition might matter, but to just someone wanting a book signed it might not even occur to them. They might just bring whatever copy of whatever book they like best.

Sure. I agree completely that it happens occasionally. Maybe even often. But I'll bet the majority of the 200 or so at that signing were bringing collectible first editions for King to sign. I don't know how many casual fans go to these signings. I've only been to one and it was dominated by collectors. I also think that a forger is more likely to forge a signature on a book with no value rather than a first edition. In other words, I don't see too many forgeries on first edition copies of CARRIE or 'SALEM'S LOT. It's just my opinion but it raises a red flag for me to see a suspicious signature on a book with no value if unsigned.

[Brice]

That makes sense I suppose. I guess I just really hadn't thought of it in those terms.

[Rahfa]

I agree with that in theroy....but that signing was in 1996 and if somebody had a favorite book to get signed, they wouldn't be thinking "sell on ebay" anyway...I have a weird out-of-print anthology with 'The Monkey' that somebody got signed - it's not even a real SK book. So, by itself, that's not a red flag to me.

However, that signature doesn't match the 1996 style anyway....