A California law concerning autographed memorabilia has been causing confusion and loss of business for auctioneers and dealers who sell baseball cards, autographed pictures of movie stars, and many types of signed art including oil paintings. Collectors who sell at shows or through ads could be considered “dealers” and subject to strict requirements regarding the sales of signed or marked items. But the law is scheduled to be changed on October 15, when the California governor either signs it, lets it pass without his signature, or vetoes it. If he vetoes it, the problems will remain. The current law requires a “certificate of authenticity” for pieces selling for over $5, a statement signed by the dealer that an autograph is authentic and the name of the owner of the piece that is for sale. And there is more—restrictions on the wording of TV, print, or online ads, hefty fines for ignoring any part of the law, and confusion about artist-signed or marked artwork, furniture, pottery, jewelry, books and other pieces. The new law, which amends the old one, will mean less confusion, revised definitions of collectibles, and should be an improvement. We will report what happens.
I would absolutely agree….. I have even asked to buy the broken for art I do. They rather through it away… Only one has a grade A with me they delivered everything for a court placement for a girl…… Far and few between.
The thrift store down the street from me (where ive found such treasures as Steuben art glass and several signed Whistler prints among many other signed pieces of art..all for a bit more than $5.. They claim to not be dealers.. so what are they? They say they are a non-profit.. i am wondering if i should gather a notorized copy of the law and go clean them out with a lawyer in tow? I know that seems awfull but i have wached them clear beautiful antique glass from their shelves by sweeping it all into a trash can..when i asked to buy it all at a steep discount (moments before they smashed it all) they said, “why? so you can go sell it all somewhere? it doesnt work that way and we need to make room so we can pick up a few loads”…. needless to say, I would take great pleasure in forcing them to sell me everything on their wall for $200.. i’m sure they have it all worked out..right? They say non profit but then say 30% goes to hospice care.. so wheres the rest go?