Help:Provenance

Provenance is the documented history of an item. Good provenance is an excellent tool for collectors because it provides authenticity and almost always increases the value and desirability of a collectable. Few things are more detrimental to the hobby of collecting than forgeries or reproductions. Unscrupulous individuals can undermine your pleasure in collecting. Don't let this happen. Seek complete, documented provenance.There are many forms of provenance and a few guidelines to follow:

Forms of Provenance

 * A detailed description of the item
 * Chronological documentation, or paper trail, of previous owners of the collectable (Chain of custody)
 * Auction record
 * A signed certificate or statement of authenticity from a respected authority or expert on the collectable
 * An exhibition or gallery sticker
 * A statement, either verbal or written, from the source of the collectable
 * An original sales receipt
 * A film or recording of a source talking about the collectable
 * An appraisal from a recognized authority or expert
 * Letters or papers from recognized experts or authorities discussing the collectable
 * Newspaper or magazine articles mentioning or illustrating the collectable
 * A mention or illustration of the collectable in a book or exhibit catalog
 * Verbal information related by someone familiar with the collectable
 * Join this wiki, identify yourself on your User Page, and provide detailed provenance

Provenance Guidelines

 * Never buy a collectable without first seeing its provenance
 * Be certain the provenance describes the collectable in question
 * All signatures on documentation must be identifiable
 * Consult and expert before you purchase an item