What Is Autograph Verification & Grading?
Autograph grading is the next step after autograph authentication. While authentication confirms an autograph’s authenticity—proving it’s a genuine signature from the celebrity—grading measures its condition. SWAU’s expert team evaluates factors like boldness, clarity, placement and overall eye appeal, assigning a score from 1 to 10 that quantifies quality at a glance.
For collectors, that number tells a story. It reflects how well the autograph has been preserved and displayed, giving confidence to buyers and sellers alike. Once verified and graded, each autograph receives SWAU’s tamper-proof hologram and serial ID for complete peace of mind and proof of authenticity. You can verify the results anytime using the SWAU Verification Portal or by scanning the QR code for instant access on your phone.
Why Grade Your Autograph?
A professional autograph grade adds value and confidence to your collection. Grading documents the autograph’s condition at a specific moment—whether it’s a mint, high-quality signature with bold, consistent ink or showing signs of fading, smudges, or surface wear that affect its appearance or value.
For those buying or selling memorabilia, a verified grade acts as a shared language. It assures both sides that the signature’s quality and authenticity have been independently confirmed. Graded autographs often command higher resale prices and are easier to insure or trade because their condition is clearly established.
Keep in mind, though, that grades reflect the autograph’s state at the time of evaluation. Ink and paper can change over time, so storing items in protective sleeves and climate-controlled environments helps preserve that condition at the time of grading.
Understanding the Grading Scale
SWAU’s autograph grading follows a 1–10 scale, where 10 represents a flawless, vibrant signature with no visible defects. Lower grades indicate factors like ink fading, smudges or inconsistent strokes.
The grading process focuses on the autograph itself—not the collectible—unless damage or wear on the item affects legibility. For multi-signed pieces, each signature requires an individual grade to be identified, authenticated and independently.
This standardized system gives collectors a clear benchmark to compare quality across different items, signers and eras.
What You Receive from SWAU
After your submission is reviewed, you’ll receive a digital summary that includes the autograph’s authentication status, condition grade and any relevant notes. Every graded piece is covered under SWAU’s Lifetime Guarantee.
SWAU’s evaluations are based on the images you provide, ensuring a consistent, transparent process. Opinions are based on submitted imagery.
SWAU’s online photo assessment offers a faster, more convenient way to receive a transparent, trusted benchmark backed by our expert team. While sending your item for in-person authentication remains the gold standard for examining live, handwritten ink and issuing a formal Letter of Authenticity, the online option delivers trusted results in less time.
Please note we offer one Autograph Verification and Grading service per piece.
Preparing Your Item for Grading
Good photos make great grades. Use natural light, avoid glare and focus sharply on the autograph. Make sure the entire item is visible in each image—cropped or blurred photos can delay processing.
SWAU accepts a wide range of items for autograph authentication and grading, including photographs, comics, Funko Pops, props and posters. Each submission covers one item or image set, and if multiple signatures appear, note each signer’s name for clarity and individually grading.
A well-prepared submission helps ensure accuracy, protecting both your investment and the autograph’s legacy.
Keep in mind this is an opinion based on a scan of the item, only an in person examination can determine if live, handwritten ink is actually present on the item.