I am saddened by the amount of forged signatures being sold on eBay and the Internet in general. My particular area of expertise is the Andy Griffith Show. The amount of forged Griffith signatures is mind-boggling. I'm estimating around 99% is pure junk.

I have been collecting and dealing in Mayberry related signatures for more than 25 years and the fact is that Andy Griffith rarely, if ever, signs anything anymore. Most signatures you see were obtained through the mail and were signed by Andy's long-time personal Manager, Richard. O. Linke. I learned this fact from Mr. Linke himself.

It is very hard to find one authentic signed photo of Mr. Griffith. Some sellers routinely sell "signed" photos. It is plain and simple forgery. I have contacted many of the sellers and voiced my concerns. Some have been honorable and removed their bogus items. Some tell me to mind my own business.

All you have to do is look at the photos being offered on eBay. They vary from seller to seller. Even the same seller's autographs differ. Some will have an upper case "G" while some will have a lower case "g". Sometimes the "h" is continued to cross the "t". Sometimes it is not. While signatures vary with time and age, the basic structure is still the same.

Granted there are a few authentic signed photos out there but they are very rare. Most authentic signed Griffith photos are not shots from the TV show. They are  studio portrait photos and most always inscribed to someone. Your best bet to get an authentic signature is to purchase one of his personal checks. They pop up from time to time.

Mr. Griffith has never attended any reunion show or autograph show. So if a seller tells you he got the signature at an event like that, they are being dishonest. Mr. Griffith does on occasion make public appearances but is very secluded. He has his own people with him and is very much protected.

Also beware of sellers who use the "Private Feedback" and "Private Auction" options. By using these options unsuspecting bidders can not be alerted to bogus items. I am very proud of my feedback and want as many people to see it as possible. Certificates of Authenticity (COA) mean absolutley nothing. If you'll fake an autograph what would keep you from faking a COA.

The bottom line is try to educate yourself on any item you are looking to buy. Search the Internet for other examples. Ask questions of your seller. An honest seller will be happy to field any questions and/or concerns you have about their item.