US006082774A United States Patent (19) 11 Patent Number: 6,082,774 Schlauch (45) Date of Patent: Jul. 4, 2000

54 MEMORABILIAARTICLES HAVING Beckett, James (editor). Beckett Baseball Monthly, Sep. INTEGRAL COLLECTABLE 1994. ATTRACTIVENESSATTRIBUTES Bilello, Suzanne. “U.S. Wages War On China's Pirates.” Newsday, Feb. 7, 1995, pp. A41 & A44. 76 Inventor: Frederick C. Schlauch, P.O. Box 880, Binder, Rich. “Rich Binder On Autograph Collecting.” The Central Islip, N.Y. 11722 Trader Speaks, Apr. 1983, pp. 9-10. Bottjer, Eric. “Get Ready to Rumble! Boxing Memorabilia 21 Appl. No.: 08/430,931 Prepares To Go The Distance With Collectors.” Tuff Stuff, Aug. 1992, pp. 88–89 & 91. 22 Filed: Apr. 26, 1995 Brecka, Jon. “How Sweet It Is, The Single-signed Baseball Represents One Of The Hobby's Most Affordable And Related U.S. Application Data Sought-after Collectibles.” Encyclopedia of Sports Memo 63 Continuation-in-part of application No. 08/349,751, Dec. 5, rabilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, pp. 8-10. 1994, which is a continuation-in-part of application No. Breeden, Mike, Scott Gregg, Michael Litos, Dennis Madi 08/167,647, Dec. 14, 1993, abandoned. gan, and Jim Warren II. “Certificates Of Authenticity, Are Two Signatures Worth More Than One'?” Tuff Stuff, Feb. (51) Int. Cl." ...... B42D 15700 1994, p. 162. 52) 283/67; 283/78; 283/75 Cariseo, Danny. “The Autograph Update: Upper Deck Vs. 58 Field of Search ...... 283/67, 74, 68, Score Board: What Does It Mean For The Hobby?" Ency 283/72, 75, 71, 78,117, 56 clopedia of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Jun-Jul. 1995, p. 12. 56) References Cited (List continued on next page.) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS Primary Examiner Willmon Fridie, Jr. 53,081 3/1866 Loewenberg ...... 427/7 57 ABSTRACT D. 56,985 1/1921 Moore ...... D21/46 Collector-targeted memorabilia articles, and a a method of (List continued on next page.) producing collector-targeted memorabilia articles by affix FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS ing one or more integral collectible attractiveness attributes to each Selected base article. Items Selectable for use as base 0330770A1 9/1989 European Pat. Off.. 2119314 11/1983 United Kingdom. articles are, for example, Sports-related items, non-collector 2192583 1/1988 United Kingdom. targeted utilitarian items, pre-existing memorabilia items, WO87/06.197 10/1987 WIPO. items intentionally manufactured for use as base articles, and like items. Each memorabilia article is a unified body of OTHER PUBLICATIONS tangible material comprising a base article and a a requisite integral collectible attractiveness attribute affixed to the base Ager, Joe. “Politician Cards.” Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, p. 10. article in the form of a genuine fingerprint of a preferred Albersheim, Richard. “The Autograph Report: What's Sell personality, a genuine autograph of a preferred personality, ing And Alternatives To Card Shows.” Tuff Stuff, Nov. 1993, or a facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality. A p. 139. facsimile autograph of a preferred personality, limited edi Baker, Mark A. Baseball Autograph Handbook, First Edi tion markings, a witness-signed authentication Statement, tion. 1990. Krause Publications, Inc., Iola, Wisconsin. notarial confirmation text, and/or other integral collectible Baker, Mark A. Baseball Autograph Handbook, Second attractiveness attributes may be additionally affixed to the Edition. 1991. Krause Publications, Inc., Iola, Wisconsin. base article. Barning, Frank. “Autograph Probe Uncovers Coverup, Threats.” Baseball Hobby News, Nov. 1982, p. 31A. 147 Claims, 18 Drawing Sheets

1999 AMERICAN BASEBAL - SECOND LIMITED SERIES 101

A. ALEX JACKSO Hittemout Card Corporation 6,082,774 Page 2

U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 4,714.275 12/1987 Engel et al...... 281/15 R 4.764,666 8/1988 Bergeron ...... 235/380 68,339 9/1867 Beamer ...... 223/109 R 4,766,026 8/1988 Lass et al...... 428/203

101,020 3/1870 Jones ------428/199 4,829,691 5/1989 Manjos et al. ... 40/661 147,289 2/1874 Smith. ... 40/159 4,860,468 8/1989 Cliborn ...... 40/124.2 167,045 8/1875 Wilkerson . 40/299 4,880,256 11/1989 Ferre-Blanquez ...... 283/92 305,315 9/1884 Lawson. ... 273/298 4.882,195 11/1989 Butland ...... 427/1 D. 312,048 11/1990 Mills ...... D10/64 4,890,229 12/1989 Rudnick ...... 364/410 D. 322,097 12/1991 Fritz ...... D2O/42 4,907,826 3/1990 Versage ... 283/56 D. 326,068 5/1992 Pierce ...... D11/99 4,913.284 4/1990 Versaci ...... 206/232 336,179 2/1886 Vogelsang . 273/126 R 4,921,280 5/1990 Jalon ...... 283/88 D. 340,880 11/1993 Walton ...... D11/137 4,927,180 5/1990 Trundle et al. ... 283/70 D. 352,956 11/1994 Vanzandt et al...... D19/1 4.944.968 7/1990 Wagner ...... 428/13 D. 353,843 12/1994 Martin ...... D20/40 4,968,065 11/1990 O’Brien ...... 283/117 390,593 10/1888 Hansen ...... 40/1.6 4,979,619 12/1990 Hager ... 206/509 483,895 10/1892 Buckley .. 273/126 R 4,979,750 12/1990 Endrody ...... 273/297 622,240 4/1899 Latham ...... 273/299 4,991,838 2/1991 Groves ...... 273/26 R 712,159 10/1902 Voege ...... 273/400 5,002,313 3/1991 Salvatore . 283/102 878,366 2/1908 Evans ...... 283/74 5,009,626 4/1 991 Katz ...... 446/391 1,117,316 11/1914 Booton et al...... 273/306 5.010,673 4/1991 Connor et al...... 40/661 1,118,727 11/1914 Bibeault ...... 473/52 5,025,580 6/1991 Asai ...... 40/152.1 1206,362 11/1916 Parliman . 40/384 5,026,058 6/1991 Bromley ...... 273/93 C 1322.293 11/1919 Effri 283/77 5,040,671 8/1991 Hager ...... 206/39 2-1/12 8 ...... 5,056.251 10/1991 Connor et al. ... 40/661 1,357,166 10/1920 Hart ...... 273/303 5,071,168 12/1991 Shamos ...... 283/68 X 1,374,208 4/1921 Jones ...... 427/1 5,078,426 1/1992 Reardon ...... 283/68 X

1,380.506 6/1921 Voght ------283/67 5,082,110 1/1992 Hager - - - 206/232 1,483,926 2/1924 Chadwicket al. 283/77 5,087,145 2/1992 Cooley ...... 402/79 1,499.955 7/1924 Stoddard ...... 40/299 5,095,194 3/1992 Barbanell ...... 235/379 1539,448 5/1925 White ...... 118/31.5 5,106,125 4/1992 Antes ...... 283/91 1,560,047 11/1925 Edwards ...... 283/78 5,114,187 5/1992 Branch ...... 283/81 2,006,744 7/1935 Pierce ...... 283/107 5,119,574 6/1992 King ...... 40/537 2,010.830 8/1935 Staude .. ... 462/84 5,120,089 6/1992 Guttag. ... 283/71 2,020,376 11/1935 Rich ...... 283/68 5,120,090 6/1992 Reinl ...... 283/117 2,066.535 1/1937 Lucas ...... 427/1 5,128,779 7/1992 Mallik ...... 359/2 2,078,382 4/1937 Hanshaw . 273/58 5,133,450 7/1992 Rademacher ... 206/44 B 2,082,735 6/1937 Heinecke ...... 427/1 5,135,230 8/1992 Denman et al...... 273/244 2,104,586 1/1938 Freudenheim ...... 427/1 5,145,173 9/1992 Crowder ...... 273/93 C 2,163,978 6/1939 Ivanek ...... 40/491 5,145,212 9/1992 Mallik . ... 283/86 2,198.802 4/1940 Brady ...... 283/68 X 5,147,043 9/1992 Gould ...... 206/457 2,263,052 11/1941 Ross ...... 273/63 5,186,467 2/1993 Chasin ...... 273/298 2,364,870 12/1944 Otto . ... 18/59 5,186,566 2/1993 Cameron .. ... 402/79 2,448,731 9/1948 Park . 273/60 5,190,127 3/1993 Cummings . ... 109/102 2,504,650 4/1950 Chessrown . ... 35/35 5,190,316 3/1993 Hefty ...... 281/15.1 2,712,514 9/1955 English ...... 156/281 5,194,289 3/1993 Butland ...... 427/1 2,723,476 11/1955 Lyon ...... 15/104.92 5,201,525 4/1993 Castro .. 273/293 2.925,273 2/1960 Pratt ...... 273/26 5,208,630 5/1993 Goodbrand et al. 355/201 3,110,494 11/1963 Morgan 273/26 5,215,792 6/1993 Miller ...... 428/14 3.245,697 4/1966 Nugent ...... 283/7 5,237,763 8/1993 Ochoa . 40/152.1 3,318,282 5/1967 Bean ... 118/713 5,246,161 9/1993 Kapp ... 229/103 3,376,661 4/1968 Hulett ...... 40/2.2 5,263,742 11/1993 Koch ...... 283/78 3,408,217 10/1968 Obuchi. ... 427/1 5,267,756 12/1993 Molee et al. ... 283/74 X 3,412,493 11/1968 French ...... 283/85 5,269,456 12/1993 Regis et al. . ... 229/103 3,571,957 3/1971 Cumming et al...... 4.0/2.2 5,270,101 12/1993 Helicher ... 428/209 3,664,910 5/1972 Hollie...... 161/147 5,287,641 2/1994 Showers ...... 40/488 3,679,512 7/1972 Macone ...... 156/308.4 5,306,049 4/1994 Shireck ...... 283/74 3,709,524 1/1973 McKee et al. . ... 462/55 5,323,553 6/1994 Candido ...... 40/537 3,851,619 12/1974 Cofield et al. . 118/31.5 5,328.207 7/1994 Hannah ...... 283/77 4,083,137 4/1978 Rozmanith ..... 40/158.1 5,330,231 7/1994 Godfrey ...... 283/78 4,182,261 1/1980 Smith et al. 118/31.5 5,340,113 8/1994 Respicio ... 273/249 4,215,499 8/1980 Wilson ...... 40/772 5,353,925 10/1994 Lennen et al. ... 206/204 4,220,086 9/1980 Laleta-Ballini 101/450.1 5,356,136 10/1994 Ippolito ... 273/58 R 4,232,083 11/1980 Buerkley et al. . ... 503/201 5,360,628 11/1994 Butland ...... 427/7 4,307.900 12/1981 Krautsack ...... 283/56 5,363,964 11/1994 Hexter . 206/449 4,322,001 3/1982 Hurley ...... 206/449 5,364,094 11/1994 Mustion 273/32 A 4.325,556 4/1982 DeCanto et al... 273/393 5,375,714 12/1994 Burnett ...... 206/424 4,379,178 4/1983 Meadows et al. ... 427/1 5,377.733 1/1995 Halley et al...... 150/147 4,641,578 2/1987 Versaci ...... 101/426 5,377828 1/1995 Jaroshewich ...... 206/315.1

4,681,324 7/1987 Karabed et al. ... 101/426 5,380,044 1/1995 Aitkens et al. . ... 283/67 4,685,699 8/1987 Hirasawa ...... 281/15 R 5,380,047 1/1995 Molee et al. ... 283/86 4,699,077 10/1987 Meadows et al. 118/31.5 5,395,444 3/1995 Arndt et al. 118/31.5 4,705,299 11/1987 Hedgcoth et al...... 283/68 5,398,812 3/1995 Hwang ...... 206/568 6,082,774 Page 3

5,401,561 3/1995 Fisun et al...... 428/195 Kiefer, Kit. “Insert Cards.” Trading Cards, Jan. 1994, pp. 5,405,197 4/1995 Makowka ...... 383/5 92-96. E. 9. Malty .. 2.3. Kimura, Daren. “Milkcap Speed Up At Charlotte.” Collector 2 a 2 f earson et al...... f Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, p. 10. 5,417,431 5/1995 Gluck ...... 273/293 66 k k S1 COI 5,419,062 5/1995 Polinski et al. ... 40/124.4 Kimura, Daren. NHL Hockey Puck Slammer!” Collector 5,429,391 7/1995 White ...... 28370 Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, p. 47. 5,433,035 7/1995 Bauer ...... 40/124.1 Kimura, Daren. “WCW Ring Rockin' Wrestling.” Collector 5,435,567 7/1995 Compress ...... 273/244 Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, p. 51. 5,435,568 7/1995 Black ...... 273/303 Kimura, Daren. “Holographic Images Mystify” Collector 5,443,106 8/1995 Browne ... 156/182 Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, p. 65. 5,443.270 8/1995 Lortiz ...... 273/290 1 &&. 5,445,391 8/1995 Gleason ...... 273/304 King, Gil. “Cachets Recapture Moments, Gateway Stamp 5,447,335 9/1995 Haslop ...... 283/91 Company Issues Full-color Silk Cachet Envelopes High 5,451,052 9/1995 Behm et al. ... 273/139 lighting Diamond Stars.” Baseball Card News, Nov. 10, 5,454,598 10/1995 Wicker ...... 283/67 1989, p. 6A. 5,454,600 10/1995 Floyd...... 283/78 Kolligian, Lee. "Legal Corner: SuperStars Autographs, 5,462,167 10/1995 Polinski et al...... 206/455 Making Sure You Have The Right Signature.” Trading 5,526,597 6/1996 Plotkin et al...... 40/722 Cards, Nov. 1991, pp. 45 & 76. OTHER PUBLICATIONS Kotero, George A. “Mania Slammin' Down Under” Col lector Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, pp. 56-57. Crowder, Scott. “In The World Of Sports.” Autograph Kraeer, Greg. “Dick Perez, Donruss’s “Diamond King Art Collector, Oct. 1993, pp. 58-59. ist Says It's A Long Way From North Philly To Cooper Dismukes, Bill, and John Dismukes. “Creating A Unique stown.” Baseball Cards, Oct. 1987, pp. 14, 16, 18 & 20. Collectible.” Baseball Cards, May 1990, pp. 72, 76 & 78. LaMarre, Tom. “Baseball's Centennial Stamp.” Baseball Encyclopedia of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide Edito Cards, Jun. 1985, pp. 74–75. rial Staff. “Sports Memorabilia Price Guide.” Encyclopedia Lemke, Bob (editor). Sportscard Counterfeit Detector. 1992. of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Dec. 1994/Jan. 1995, Krause Publications, Inc., Iola, Wisconsin. pp. 49-67, 73–74 & 76. Encyclopedia of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide Edito Leptich, John. “The Inside Corner: Letters From The Lep rial Staff. “Sports Memorabilia Price Guide.” Encyclopedia tich Mailbox.' Sports Collectors Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, pp. 50. 49-67 & 74-75. Lindsay, Kenny. “Beware Of Autopen Signatures.” Sports Firfer, Rick. “What Constitutes A Game-worn Jersey'?” Collectors Digest, Feb. 10, 1995, p. 6. Sports Collectors Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. 111. Lupo, Vince. “The Way It Is: New Evidence Indicates Fritz, Steve. “A Star On Every Card, Comics Breaking Into WildCard's Overproduction Of Chromium Cards.” Sports Card Collecting World.” Tuff Stuff, May 1992, pp. 62–64 & Collectors Digest, Feb. 3, 1995, p. 60. 66. Lupo, Vince. “The Way It Is: UDA Files Suit Against The Forman, ROSS. "Reggie Will Again Donate Autograph Fee Score Board And Three Others.” Sports Collectors Digest, To Assist Former Negro Leaguers.” Sports Collectors Mar. 17. 1995, pp. 14-15. Digest, Sep. 9, 1994, p. 10. Lupo, Vince. “The Way It Is: StartYour Morning With Some Galovich, Tony. “Points To Ponder: From A Falling Case O.J., Signed O.J. Card Can Be Yours For AS Little ASS850.” Market To Hawaii And Back.” Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, pp. Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. 23, 1994, p. 22. 156-157. Lupo, Vince. “The Way It Is: Fourteen-year Old Taken For Gilkeson, Dick. “Truly Tuff Stuff: Just What Does Limited A Ride, Memorabilia Dealer Faces Up To Four Years In Edition Really Mean Anyway?" Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, pp. Prison.” Sports Collectors Digest, Nov. 11, 1994, p. 26. 172-173. Lupo, Vince. “The Way It Is: SCD Readers Answer, “What Gilkeson, Dick. “Truly Tuff Stuff: Autographed Insert Cards Purpose Do Certificates of Authenticity Serve'?.” Sport Are The Latest Must Have For Master Set Collectors.” Tuff Collectors Digest, Jul. 14, 1995, pp. 24-26. Stuff, May 1992, pp. 184-185. Malc, Paul. “Autographs.” Sports Collectors Digest, Jul. 14, Gregory, Bob. “Seal Of The First Cat Of The United States.” 1995, pp. 24–25. Collector Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, p. 79. Marazzi, Rich. “Batting The Breeze: Mark Murphy- The Hager, Alan. Hager's Comprehensive Price Guide To Rare Wax Pack King.” Sports Collectors Digest, Jan. 29, 1993, Baseball Cards, 1886 To Present, Volume 1. 1993. Alan pp. 110-111. Hager Group, Inc., Norfolk, Connecticut. Marazzi, Rich. “Batting The Breeze: John Raybin Discusses Hawkins, Jim. “Eye Of The Hawk: Some Aren't Worth Autograph Collecting.” Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. 25, Paper They’re Printed On, Certificate Of Authenticity Only 1993. As Good As Issuer's Reputation.” Sports Collectors Digest, Mazzola, Gregg. “Interview: Mickey Mantle, The Idol Of Oct. 21, 1994, p. 24. Millions Talks About The Hobby, Autograph Shows And His Houser, Dave. “Honeymooning At The Baseball Hall Of Rookie Card.” Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, pp. 80–81. Fame.” Baseball Hobby News, Nov. 1983, p. 12A. McKeever, Michael. “Gridiron Audibles.” Encyclopedia of Hurley, Jim. “The Variety In Autograph Media.” Baseball Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Dec. 1994/Jan. 1995, Hobby News, Mar. 1990, pp. 54A-55A. pp. 32-33. Kiefer, Kit. “Hooping It Up: 26 Sheets To The Wind, Hoops' McLauchlin, Jim. “4 Things You Didn't Know About Auto Arena-giveaway Sheets Pose A Collecting Challenge.” graphs: #4 Autographed Rarities.” Collector's Sportslook, Baseball Cards, Mar. 1992, p 30. Jun. 1995, p. 59. 6,082,774 Page 4

Melia, Terry. “Finding The Comfort Zone, Are Certificates Newman, Scott. “Faking The Romance: Fraud And Conter Of Authenticity Worth Even The Pieces Of Paper They're feiting. Few People In The Memorabilia Industry Want To Printed On?” Encyclopedia Of Sports Memorabilia & Price Talk About It. But That's The Only Way To Correct It.” Tuff Guide, Dec. 1994/Jan. 1995, pp. 8-10. Stuff, Feb. 1993, pp. 116–118. Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Strawberry Joins Nii, Judith. “News Releases.” Collector Caps Price Guide, List Of Rubber Stampers?” Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. Summer 1995, p. 12. 14, 1984, pp. 130 & 132. Nii, Judith. “Why Are Milkcaps So Popular?” Collector Miedema, Dave. “Who’s Who In The National League: Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, p. 12. Good Guys & Ghost-signers.” Baseball Cards, Oct. 1984, pp. 48-49 & 52-54. Nii, Judith. “Stacking 'Em Up In The Big Apple.” Collector Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Identifying Rubber Caps Price Guide, Summer 1995, pp. 20-21. Stamps And Fakes.” Sports Collectors Digest, Dec. 7, 1984, Nilson, Edwin F., Jr. “Dragonball Z Slams Japan.” Collector pp. 94-95. Caps Guide, Summer 1995, p. 59. Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Two Stars Getting Obojski, Robert. “Garvey And Reggie On Collector Plates.” Mail Answering Help.” Sports Collectors Digest, Mar. 29, Baseball Hobby News, Jul. 1983, p. 11A. 1985, pp. 22, 24 & 26. O'Donnell, Chuck. “4 Things You Didn't Know Aboout Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Cases Of Mistaken Autographs: #1 It's The Law.” Collector's Sportslook, Jun. Identity.” Sports Collectors Digest, Apr. 26, 1985, pp. 94, 1995, p. 58. 102, 106, & 110. O'Donnell, Chuck. “4 Things You Didn't Know About Miedema, Dave. "McDonald's Issues New Bears Card Set.” Autographs: #2 All The Presidents Sigs.” Collector's Sports Collectors Digest, Jan. 31, 1986, p. 24. Sportslook, Jun. 1995, pp. 58-59. Miedema, Dave. “Autograph Inquiries.” Baseball Cards, O'Donnell, Chuck. “4 Things You Didn't Know About Dec. 1986, pp. 84 & 85. Autographs: #3 Ghost Signers Haunt The Hobby.” Collec Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Hall Of Famers tor's Sportslook, Jun. 1995, p. 59. Make Autograph News.” Sports Collectors Digest, Jan. 30, Overstreet, Robert M. The OverStreet Comic Book Price 1987, pp. 176, 184 & 192. Guide, 24th Edition. 1994. Avon Books, New York, New Miedema, Dave. "Autographs: Signing Their Lives Away, York. Rating The More Recent Hall of Famers On Their Signing Habits.” Baseball Cards, Jul. 1987, pp. 74 & 76. Pendleton, F.J. “Stamping Around: Hoops Or Bats- The Miedema, Dave. “Autographs: Some Sign, But Few Of Philatelic Prospects Are Similar.” Sports Collectors Digest, These Hall Of Famers Sign For Free Anymore.” Baseball Dec. 1, 1989, pp. 252-253. Cards, Aug. 1987, pp. 18 & 20. Raybin, John L. “The Raybin Autograph Report: The Miedema, Dave. “Autographs: Unhealthy, Health Problems Growth Of Non-baseball Autographs And The Evils of Blue Limit The Appearances Of Older Hall Of Famers.” Baseball Sharpies.” Tuff Stuff, Feb. 1993, p. 149. Cards, Oct. 1987, pp. 26 & 28. Raybin, John. L. “These Guys Know Autographs, The Ten Miedema, Dave. “Autographs: Regular Guys, These Hall Of Most Influential People In The Sports Autograph Industry: Famers Are Pretty Good About Their Autographs.” Baseball Hear What They Have To Say.” Encyclopedia of Sports Cards, Nov. 1987, pp. 18 & 20. Memorabilia & Price Guide, Jun-Jul. 1995, pp. 34–37. Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley.” Sports Collectors Raymond, Sam. “Home Shopping Scam, Is The Home Digest, Jul. 24, 1992. Shopping Club A.Viable Avenue Through Which Collectors Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Sharpie Has Met Its Can Buys Sports Collectibles?” Trading Cards, Jan. 1994, Match. On Some 93 Cards; Donruss, Fleer UV Coated pp. 20-24 & 26. Cards Don't Retain Ink AS Well AS Topps.” Sports Collec Reid, Zachary. “A Closer Look: The Score Board Cracking tors Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. 90. Down On Fake Autographs.” Tuff Stuff, Apr. 1993, pp. Miedema, Dave. “Up Autograph Alley: Some Players Con 27-28. densed, Abbreviated Their Autograph.” Sports Collectors Reid, Zachary. “Ode To A Sharpie.” Collector's Sportslook, Digest, Feb. 3, 1995, p. 140. Jun. 1995, p. 63. Miedema, Dave. “Let The Autograph Buyer Beware, Forged Ryan, Steve. “Under The Microscope, Athletes Being Tar Signatures Are More Commonplace Than Even Dealers geted For Tax Evasion.” Encyclopedia of Sports Memora Would Care To Admit.” Encyclopedia of Sports Memora bilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, pp. 38 & 40–41. bilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, pp. 42–43 & 78. Miedema, Dave. “Shirt Off My Back: Don't Put Total Faith Saccucci, Fluffy. “Gartlan Statues Find Niche In Sports In Letter Of Authenticity.” Sports Collectors Digest, Jul. 14, Collecting Hobby.” Sports Collectors Digest, Nov. 13, 1992, 1995, p. 80. pp. 50-51. Miller, Richard D. “19th Century Trade Cards, Early Ad Santry, Kevin. “More On The Autopen.” Sports Collectors Cards Offered Comedic Baseball Scenes.” The Trader Digest, Mar. 3, 1995, p. 6. Speaks, Mar. 1990, pp. 10-11 (in Sports Collectors Digest, Slater, John. “Checklist Clearinghouse Returns With New Feb. 23, 1990). Lineup, Steve Garvey Featured.” Baseball Hobby News, Morse, Rusty. “Designated Editor: Sports And Disaster.” Feb. 1985, p. 11. Sports Collectors Digest, Dec. 1, 1989, p. 120. Spaise, Kevin. “Upper Deck Hits Paydirt With Its 91 Mortenson, Tom. “SCD Baseball Autograph Price Guide.” Gridiron Set, Joe Montana Signs. On AS Card Company Sports Collectors Digest, May 12, 1995, pp. 128–130. Promoter.” Trading Cards, Nov. 1991, p. 12. Navarro, Al. “Odds & Ends: Bats and Wine Bottles Are Not Spaise, Kevin. “Inside Pitches.” Encyclopedia of Sports Just For Swinging and Drinking.” Encyclopedia of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Dec. 1994/Jan. 1995, pp. Memorabilia & Price Guide, Jun-Jul. 1995, p. 32. 28-29. 6,082,774 Page 5

Spaise, Kevin. “To Personalize Or Not To Personalize: If BallOube, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Jun. Your Baseball Is Signed “To Abner, You’ll Probably Have 1989, p. 48A. A Tough Time Selling It.' Encyclopedia of Sports Memo Baseball Archive. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Mar. rabilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, pp. 18-20. 1980, p. 8. Sperling, Joe. “Autograph Addict.” Tuff Stuff Feb. 1992, p. Baseball Card Exchange. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby 81. News, Dec. 1984, p. 30. Sperling, Joe. “Autograph Addict: Some Protective Sheets Baseball Card World. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Are Damaging To Autographs.” Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, p. 91. Digest, May 22, 1987, p. 34. Sperling, Joe. “Autograph Addict: Of Autopens And Players Baseball Collectors Corner. Advertisement. The Trader Who Don't Answer Mail.” Tuff Stuff, May 1992, p. 191. Speaks, Nov. 1982, p. 13. Sperling, Joe. “Autograph Addict: Beware: Rubber Stamp Baseball Dreamz. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Suspected In St. Louis.” Tuff Stuff, Jun. 1992, p. 143. Sep. 16, 1994, p. 133. Sperling, Joe. “Autograph Addict: Spending Big Money For Baseball Heroes Foundation. Advertisement. Sports Collec A Little Ink.” Tuff Stuff, Aug. 1992, p. 175. tors Digest, Mar. 4, 1988, p. 74. Sports Collectors Digest Editorial Staff. “Proposed Legisla Bat Company. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jul. tion Would Define Term “Limited Edition.” Sports Collec 14, 1995, p. 197. tors Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. 12. Bay Area Sports Collectables. Advertisement. Sports Col Toser, Roxanne. “Milk Caps- The Hottest Collectibles. . .” lectors Digest, Aug. 10, 1985, p. 177. Non-Sport Update, Jul.-Sep. 1993, p. 26. Best Photos. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, May Tuff Stuff Price Guide Staff. “Tuff Stuff's Baseball Hall Of 11, 1984, p. 87. Fame Guide.” Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1993, pp. 214–216. Big Island Milk Cap Company, and California Milk Cap Warner, Justin. “Authentic Sign Of The Times.” Newsday, Company. Advertisement. Non-Sport Update, Jul.-Sep. May 2, 1995, p. B25. 1993, p. 8. Warren, Julie. “Collecting For Heel Of It, How One Col Big League Collectables. Advertisement. Baseball Card lector Got Magic Johnson's And Michael Jordan's Sneak News, Sep. 15, 1983, p. 30. ers.” Encyclopedia of Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Bill Corcoran. Advertisement. Sport Collectors Digest, Nov. Jun-Jul. 1995, pp. 78–80. 25, 1994, p. 217. A & A Baseball. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Bill Haber. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Mar. 1983, p. Feb. 23, 1990, p. 247. 2O. A & K Sports Collectibles. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff Dec. Bill Karaman. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Mar. 4, 1988, p. 32. 1994, p. 91. BKR Corp. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jul. A.E. Forth Co. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Jun. 14, 1995, p. 204. 1989. p. 10A. Brenn Very. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Mar. A Gloria Rothstein Show Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Mar. 29, 1985, p. 171. 1992, p. 55. Burl Armstrong. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Feb. Able Soft. Advertisement. Trading Cards, Jan. 1994, p. 63. 1984, p. 27. Accugrade, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Cardstop. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Feb. 23, Mar. 17, 1995, p. 76. 1990, p. 244. Ace Embossing. Advertisement. Collector Caps Price Carl Meyer. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. Guide, Summer 1995, p. 80. 27, 1985, p. 38. Acme Reproductions. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, May 1992, Cashion & Record. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, p. p. 73. 54. All-Star Cards Ltd. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Celestial Arts. Advertisement. The Comic Book Price Guide, Feb. 1982, p. 18A. 11th Edition, by Robert M. Overstreet (1981). Allen Gallery. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Celestial Communications. Advertisement. The Inside Col Apr. 26, 1985, p. 157. lector, May 1995, pp. 24–25. ARComics, Inc. Advertisement. Comics Retailer; Jun. 1993, Centerfield Collectibles. Advertisement. Sports Collectors p. 31. Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. 201. Armstrongs. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, 1986 Annual Centerfield Collectibles. Advertisement. Sports Collectors (Special) ISSue, p. 25. Digest, Feb. 3, 1995, p. 15. Authentic American Collectibles. Advertisement. Sports Certified Autographs. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Collectors Digest, Jan. 29, 1993, p. 214. Digest, Dec. 21, 1984, p. 97. Authentic Sports Autographs, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Certified Baseball Card Service. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, May 15, 1993, p. 71. Card News, Apr. 15, 1988, p. 27. Authentic Verification ASSociation, Inc. Advertisement. Clifton J. Sheely Co. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Nov. 1989, Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. 26, 1992, p. 225. p. 100. B & M Baseball Cards. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Collectible Resource Group, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Digest, Dec. 20, 1985, p. 25. Card News, Mar. 1986, p. 73. B & M Baseball Cards. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Apr. Collectible Resource Group, Inc. Advertisement. Sports 1986, p. 77. Collectors Digest, Jun. 6, 1986, p. 200. Ball Four Cards. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Collectible Resource Group, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Jan. 27, 1995, p. 136. Collectors Digest, May 1, 1987, p. 176. BallOube, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Collector Dons. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1994, p. Jun. 5, 1987, p. 231. 129. 6,082,774 Page 6

Collectors Club. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Aug. 1987, Enor Sports Products. Advertisement. Sports Collectors p. 94. Digest, Jun. 19, 1992, p. 33. Collector's Dreams. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Everything Baseball Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Feb. 1986, p. 27. Digest, Sep. 23, 1994, p. 179. Collector's Dreams. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Apr. Executive Investments Co. Advertisement. Sports Collec 1986, p. 40. tors Digest, Jan. 30, 1987, p. 57. Collectors Palace Gallery. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Fielder's Choice Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Nov. 1993, Digest, Jan. 29, 1993, p. 204. p. 277. Comic Connection. Advertisement. Comics Buyer's Guide, Fotoball USA Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Nov. 1989, p. Sep. 10, 1993, p. 82. 56. Compu-Quote. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Apr. Fotofamer Statues, Ltd. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, 15, 1988, p. 56. Oct. 1987, p. 64. Cooperstown Bat Co. Advertisement. Encyclopedia of Future Sports & Memorabilia Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, p. 17. Dec. 1994, p. 148. Cottage Cards. Advertisement. The Wrapper, Oct. 1-Nov. G & M Collectables. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, p. 15, 1994, p. 50. 34. CPG Direct. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1993, p. 99. Gary Horner. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Oct. 1979, CPG Direct. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Nov. p. 18. 11, 1994, p. 178. Gary Horner. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Mar. 1980, CPG Direct. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1994, pp. p. 12. 132-133. Gary Horner. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Sep. 1981, Crazy Scondo's House of Cards. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff p. 54. Dec. 1994, p. 195. Gateway Stamp Company, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball D & D Collect-A-Plate & Sports Memorabilia. Advertise Hobby News, Sep. 1982, p. 35. ment. Sports Collectors Digest, Oct. 20, 1989, p. 204. Gateway Stamp Company, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Dan Dischley. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Sep. Card News, Apr. 1986, p. 27. 1981, pp. 69-71. Gateway Stamp Company, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Dan Dischley. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Apr. Card News, Nov. 10, 1989, p. 9A. 1983, p. 47. Gino Divetta. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, May Dark Horse Comics. Advertisement. Comics Buyer's Guide, 1983, p. 27. Sep. 10, 1993, p. 33. Great American Sports. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Dave Rumsey. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Mar. Digest, Aug. 7, 1992, p. 106. 1980, p. 77. David Epstein Sports Collectibles. Advertisement. Sports Greg Tucker. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Oct. Collectors Digest, Nov. 13, 1992, p. 281. 13, 1989, p. 213. Decathlon Corporation. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby Greg Tucker Autographs. Advertisement. Sports Collectors News, Oct. 1984, p. 15A. Digest, Sep. 16, 1994, p. 82. Denny Graziano. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Hesh Morgan. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Aug. 1984, p. 4A. Apr. 11, 1986, p. 280. Destiny International. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1994, Historic Limited Editions. Advertisement. The Trader p. 70. Speaks, Apr. 1983, p. 43. Dialogue Marketing Group. Advertisement. Sports Collec Historic Limited Editions. Advertisement. Sports Collectors tors Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. 84. Digest, May 25, 1985, p. 195. Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc. Advertisement. Comics Historic Limited Editions. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Retailer, Jun. 1993, p. 17. Apr. 1988, p. 32. Dick Dobbins. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Oct. Historic Limited Editions. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, 1979, p. 25. Aug. 1988, p. 81. Diversified Marketing, Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff Dec. Historic Limited Editions. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby 1994, p. 8. News, Jun. 1989, p. 48A. Diversified Marketing, Inc. Advertisement. Encyclopedia of Horse Star Cards Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Mar. 1992, Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, p. 71. p. 26. Doug Averitt, and Dick Patman. Advertisement. The Trader House of Cards. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Speaks, Jul. 1979, p. 60. Jan. 1986, p. 202. Doug Johnson. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Howard's Coin Shop. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby Dec. 1, 1989, p. 56. News, Nov. 1984, p. 15A. Dugout Baseball Card Shop. Advertisement. Sports Collec Howard's Coin Shop. Advertisement. Sports Collector's tors Digest, Apr. 13, 1984, p. 153. Digest, Feb. 1, 1985, p. 80. Ed Taylor's Baseball Dreams. Advertisement. Sports Col Howard's Coin Shop. Advertisement. Sports Collector's lectors Digest, Oct. 21, 1994, p. 166. Digest, Jan. 31, 1986, pp. 125-128. Elite Sports Products, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby Howard's Sports Collectibles. Baseball Card Collecting . . News, Mar. 1984, p. 40. ... An American Tradition? (advertising catalog, 1988). Elmer's Nostalgia, Inc. Advertisement. Autograph Collec International Collectors Society. Advertisement. Newsday, tor, Oct. 1993, p. 15. Feb. 14, 1995, p. B19. Emerald City Sports Cards. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Jack Smalling. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Jul. Mar. 1992, p. 31. 1981, p. 52. 6,082,774 Page 7

JC's Sports Connection. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Jun. P.M. Antiques & Collectibles. Advertisement. Baseball Card 1992, p. 33. News, May 15, 1983, p. 70. JJ Sports Collectibles. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby P.M. Antiques & Collectables. Advertisement. Sports Col News, Mar. 1990, p. 15. lectors Digest, Jul. 20, 1984, p. 141. John Jodauga Productions. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby Pack Sports Bronzes, Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Mar. 1992, p. 43A. News, Mar. 1990, p. 58. John L. Raybin. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Paul Kinzer (Blue Chip Sports Collectibles). Advertisement. Oct. 20, 1989, p. 66. Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. 19, 1992, p. 189. Joseph Associates. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Perma-Graphics. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Spring Jun. 1989, p. 51. 1982, p. 57. Joseph Associates. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Perma-Graphics. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Mar. 1990, p. 24. May 1983, p. 11A. Joseph Savitsky. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Personalized Photo. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Mar. 1982, p. 29A. Digest, Sep. 27, 1985, p. 225. Kondritz Sports Productions. Advertisement. Baseball Photos. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Jul. 1982, p. Cards, Mar. 1988, p. 57. 28A. Kornersaver Kollector. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Jun. 1993, Powell Associates. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, p. 54. Nov. 11, 1994, p. 173. Liberty Bell Products. Advertisement. Non-Sport Update, Primetime Press. Advertisement. Non-Sport Update, Oct. 1991, pp. 38–39. Jul.-Sep. 1993, p. 56. Lime Rock International, Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Mar. Pro Insignia. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Oct. 1988, p. 1992, p. 140. 33. Lime Rock International, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Col Professional Sports Authenticator. Advertisement. Sports lectors Digest, Jun. 19, 1992, p. 92. Collectors Digest, Jun. 19, 1992, p. 132. Limited Edition Stadiums. Advertisement. The Trader R & R Enterprises. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Speaks, Oct. 1982, p. 19. Jun. 1982, p. 53. M.B. Galleries. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Sep. R & R Enterprises. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, 1983, p. 46. Aug. 16, 1985, p. 133. M. Phillips, Ltd. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Ralph Piticchio. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Apr. 16, 1993, p. 205. Sep. 27, 1985, p. 177. Mail Order Concepts, Inc. Spring Into The Madness, Mail Ralph Paticchio. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Jun. Order Concept Spring Liquidation Catalog (advertising 1989, p. 20. catalog, 1995). Ralph Paticchio. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Major League Entertainment. Advertisement. Non-Sport Oct. 13, 1989, p. 176. Update, Oct. 1991, p. 23. Randy Whalen. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Jul. Mark Jordan. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. 1981, p. 36. 29, 1989, p. 159. Rare Sports Card Gallery. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Mark Jordan. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Dec. Digest, Nov. 11, 1994, p. 221. 1, 1989, p. 112. Rich Altman. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Nov. Mark Jordan Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Nov. 1992, p. 11, 1994, p. 210. 133. Richard Duglin. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Jul. Michael Bertolini. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, 1983, p. 46. Feb. 1982, p. 28A. Richard J. Binder. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Mike “Mac” McDonald. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Mar. 29, 1985, p. 79. Digest, May 22, 1987, p. 96. Rick Mattel. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. Military Collectible Shop, Ltd. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff 23, 1994, p. 153. Mar. 1992, p. 153. Robert J. McDowell. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Mint Finder. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, May Feb. 1984, p. 61. 1, 1987, p. 131. Robert Stephen Simon Studios. Advertisement. Sports Col MJB Holographics. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Aug. 1992, p. lectors Digest, Nov. 23, 1984, p. 95. 2. Ron Gordon. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Oct. Moody's. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Dec. 1991, p. 13, 1989, p. 158. 173. Ron Lewis, Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Apr. Moody's. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Feb. 1992, p. 123. 16, 1993, p. 102. MS Data Base Solutions. Advertisement. Trading Cards, Rookies Unlimited. Advertisement. Sports Digest, Nov. 13, Nov. 1991, p. 86. 1992, p. 230. MVP Autographs & Sports Memorabilia. Advertisement. Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Jul. Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. 16, 1994, p. 171. 1987, p. 84. Nate's Autographs. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Aug. Digest, Nov. 13, 1992, p. 279. 1988, p. 80. P.M. Antiques. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Nov. Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Sep. 15, 1983, p. 62. 1988, p. 56. P.M. Antiques & Collectibles. Advertisement. Baseball Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Hobby News, May 1983, p. 27A. Jun. 1989, p. 48A. 6,082,774 Page 8

Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Supercard. Advertisement. Comic Buyer's Guide, Oct. 23, Digest, Oct. 13, 1989, p. 221. 1992, p. 71. Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Nov. 1989, p. T.K. Sports. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. 45. 6, 1986, p. 259. Ryan Twist Gallery. Advertisement. Sports Collectors T.N.T. Collectibles. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. 19, 1992, p. 183. Digest, Dec. 1, 1989, p. 192. Rycard Productions Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Ted Elmo. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Oct. 12, Digest, Nov. 13, 1992, p. 265. 1984, pp. 44-45. SAM, Inc. Advertisement Encyclopedia of Sports Memora The Art Consortium. Advertisement. Comics Retailer; Jun. bilia & Price Guide, Dec. 1994/Jan. 1995, p. 81. 1993, p. 67. Schenker Promotions. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Jun. 1993, The Baseball Park. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, p. 168. Jun. 1989, p. 69A. Score. Advertisement. The Sports Card & Value Line The Collector's Corner. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Review, Feb. 1992, outside back cover. Digest, Jan. 30, 1987, p. 227. Seth Vogel. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, May The Dugout. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Oct. 1982, 1982, p. 53. p. 42. Signature Bats, L.P. Advertisement. Sports Collectors The Highland Mint. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jul. 14, 1995, p. 35. Digest, Aug. 19, 1994, p. 81. Signature Rookies. Advertisement. Encyclopedia of Sports The Hoffman Mint. Advertisement. Collector Caps Price Memorabilia & Price Guide, Apr.-May 1995, p. 2. Guide, Summer 1995, p. 58. Slammers Direct. Advertisement. Collector Caps Price The National Pastime. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Guide, Summer 1995, p. 70. Digest, Apr. 26, 1985, p. 138. Spectrum Fine Art Gallery. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby The Political Gallery. Advertisement. Sports Collectors News, Oct. 1982, p. 36. Digest, Jul. 14, 1995, p. 198. Spectrum Group, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors The Rarities Group Inc. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby Digest, Jan. 29, 1993, p. 192. News, Aug. 1989, p. 61. Sports Alley Trading Cards & Memorabilia. Advertisement. The Score Board, Inc. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Oct. 1992, Tuff Stuff, Feb. 1994, p. 37. p. 125. Sports Alley Trading Cards & Memorabilia. Advertisement. The Score Board, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1994, p. 45. Digest, Jan. 29, 1993, p. 8. Sports Collectibles. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, The Score Board, Inc. Advertisement. Trading Cards, Jan. Nov. 1983, p. 21A. 1994, p. 13. Sports Impressions. Advertisement. Sports Collectors The Score Board, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Feb. 28, 1986, p. 57. Digest, Sep. 9, 1994, p. 8. Sports Impressions. Advertisement. Sports Collectors The Shoe Box. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Oct. Digest, Apr. 11, 1986, p. 10. 1984, p. 12A. Sports Impressions. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Nov. The Sports Alley. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, 1989, p. 101. Mar. 30, 1984, p. 18. Sports Korner. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Mar. The Sports Collection. Advertisement. Sports Collectors 1990, p. 40A. Digest, Apr. 26, 1985, p. 140. Sportstar Publishing Ltd. Advertisement. Sports Collectors The Sports Collectors Corner. Advertisement. Baseball Card Digest, Nov. 13, 1992, p. 258. News, Sep. 15, 1983, p. 52. Sportsworld. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. The Star Company. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, 8, 1984, p. 177. Nov. 1984, p. 67. Sportsworld. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Jul. Thrill Of Victory. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, 1984, p. 31. Apr. 1985, p. 40. SSKAmerica, Inc. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Thrill Of Victory. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Jun. 5, 1987, p. 209. Jan. 31, 1986, p. 181. Stacks Of Plaques. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, Apr. Thrill Of Victory. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Oct. 1993, pp. 1986, p. 31. 159-160. Stampsmith Shop. Advertisement. Baseball Card News, Jul. Thrill Of Victory. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Dec. 1994, pp. 15, 1983, p. 32. 150-151. StarSearch Autographs. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Tony Carrafiell. Advertisement. The Trader Speaks, Sep. Digest, Jul. 5, 1985, p. 93. 1981, p. 17. Step Up To The Plate. Advertisement. Encyclopedia of Traks Race Products. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Aug. 1992, Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, Dec. 1994/Jan. 1995, p. p. 43. 83. Triple Crown Sports Collectibles. Advertisement. Sports Steve Reyes. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Apr. Collectors Digest, Dec. 1, 1989, p. 51. 1982, p. 30A. Upper Deck Authenticated, Ltd. Upper Deck Authenticated Stuart Collectibles. Advertisement. Tuff Stuff, Jan. 1993, p. Authentic Signed Sports Collectibles, Collectors Edition, 171. No. 6, Holiday 1993 (advertising catalog). Sue Bogyo. Advertisement. Sports Collectors Digest, Apr. Wayne Miller Cards. Advertisement. Sports Collectors 26, 1985, p. 160. Digest, Feb. 3, 1984, p. 141. Sunshine Minting Inc. Advertisement. Collector Caps Price Wayne Miller Cards. Advertisement. Baseball Hobby News, Guide, Summer 1995, p. 74. Jun. 1984, p. 32. 6,082,774 Page 9

Wayne Miller Cards. Advertisement. Sports Collectors 1982 On Deck Cookies Baseball Card, Cecil Cooper. Digest, Mar. 1985, p. 65. 1952 Topps Baseball Card, #311 Mickey Mantle. West Coast Sports Cards. Advertisement. Baseball Cards, 1954–55 Topps Hockey Card, #54 Bill Mosienko. May 1990, p. 135. Xanadu Comics And Collectables, Inc. Advertisement. The 1957 Topps Football Card, #28 Lou Groza. Comic Book Price Guide, 11th Edition, by Robert M. 1964 Topps Outer Limits Trading Card, #15 The Brainless Overstreet (1981). Glob. Yesterdays Legends. Advertisement. Sports Collectors 1965 Topps Embossed Baseball Card, #8 Sandy Koufax. Digest, Jul. 14, 1995, p. 188. 1968 Topps Land of the Giants Trading Card, #13 Fright Z Comic Cap Corp. Advertisement. Collector Caps Price ened. Guide, Summer 1995, p. 7. 1969–70 Topps Basketball Card, #43 Bill Bradley. 1887 Allen & Ginter Baseball Card, Timothy Keefe. 1952 Bowman U.S. Presidents Trading Card, #3 George 1970 Topps Super Glossy Football Card, #15 Fran Tarken Washington. ton. 1981 Donruss Golf Card, #1 Tom Watson. 1974 Topps Baseball Card, #283. Mike Schmidt. 1933 Flatbush Gum Co. Noah's Ark Trading Card, Gorilla. 1982 Topps Baseball Card, #210 Keith Hernandez. 1981 Fleer Star Sticker Baseball Card, #74 Pete Rose. 1982 Topps E.T. Trading Card, #86 Friendly Face From 1940 Gum Incorporated Superman Trading Card, #47 Hor Space ror Beneath The Sea. 1986 Topps Wax Box Baseball Card, Fernando Valenzuela. 1955 Johnston Cookies Baseball Card, Chuck Tanner. 1988 Upper Deck Promo Baseball Card, #700 Wally Joyner. 1893 Just So Tobacco Baseball Card, F.W. Boyd. 1984 Nestle Baseball Card, #357 Ron Cey. 1989 Upper Deck Baseball Card, #612 Keith Hernandez. 1933–34 O-Pee-Chee Hockey Card, #34 Charley Conacher. 1990 Upper Deck Baseball Card, #567 Robin Yount. 1978–79 O-Pee-Chee Hockey Card, #100 Phil Esposito. 1991 Upper Deck Baseball Card, #337 Dave Winfield. U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 1 of 18 6,082,774

1999 AMERICAN BASEBALL - SECOND LIMITED SERIES 101

AD 152 ALEX JACKSOK'?

152 102 ALEX UACKSO

1998 Hits 1998 Batting Average ...... 3OO 1998 Home Runs

This card is part of the Second Limited Edition Series of Genuine Autograph & Fingerprint Baseball Cards of the Year 1999. FIG. 1B U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 2 of 18 6,082,774

AMERICAN 1st HEROINES SERIES OF OF 1997 HOLLYWOOD CARD 34 OF THE EF-201

LIMITED 220 FINGERPRINT EDITION

252

252 200

34 - MARY ELLENSON HARTSON 220 150 coPIES MADE OF EACH NUMBER IN THIS 40-CARD SET ACTRESS FAMOUS FOR ROLE IN LOOKIN THATAWAY"

GENUINE FINGERPRINTING DATE: FEBRUARY 29, 1997 252 LOCATION OF FINGERPRINTING: JEFFERSVILLE, MO. AT WITNESSED THE PERSONKNOWN TO ARY ELLENSON HARTSON AFFX HER FINGERPRINT IN THE FORM OF A STAR TO THE OTHER 250 SIDE OF THIS CARD. S) 9 p SWORN TO BEFORE ME BY J. J. WILBERTSON 270 ON FEBRUARY 29, 1997. ujaru- C terre/1a2 NOTARYPUBLIC, REGISTERED 280 IN FAYEETALIE, JOBFEN COUNTY, MISSOUR (9EEA894O1165). U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 3 of 18 6,082,774

300

U.S. SENATOR OWELL ROY JODEER

GENUINE y ŠaFINGERPRINT Milkcae

300 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 4 of 18 6,082,774

440

400 450 DD SEE GOVERNOR 402 JM COBORAFFIX

HIS THUMBPRINT AND AUTOGRAPH TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS SLAMMER. va.2-, -, -ir, N. Z. PYBIN 470

STATE OF MARYLAND } SS: COUNTY OF KINGSPRINCE -

N.Z. PYBN CAME BEFOREME ON THIS 29TH OF FEB 1999 ANDATTESTED TO THE TRUTH OF THE OF THE ABOVE UNDER THE PENALTIES OF PERJURY. Few, alth, ujuu- d. Paul DAED WILLIAM. O. BOTTLEJACKS

NOTARY PUBLIC MD. Not PUB REGNO 480

98-51516A2770MK TERM EXPRES JUNE 31, 2005 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 5 of 18 6,082,774

HALL-OF-FAME /s.

OF HEROC Q. AMERICANS

INDUCTION CEREMONIES 540 A.es. Ns

FOR ABEV. UARRTHE: SéSNS

APRIL 31, 1998 552 501

593 887 OF 900 ISSUED

ELECTED 1998: ABE V. UARRTHE 502 FIG. 5B U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 6 of 18 6,082,774

600 se

U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 7 of 18 6,082,774 700 701

E. EE SESE. t ERE

NUMBER 8 OF 50 PRINTS 750 l, ALICE 2. WITNESSED ROBERT GSTERAFFX HIS AUTO GRAPH AND FINGERPRINT TO THIS 760 G0iew Suot. l, THE UNDERSIGNED NOTARY PUBLIC, WITNESSD ROBERT GSTER SIGNAND INGERPRINT THS ART PRINT, AND ALICE ILVORTIC SWORE TO THE ABOVE, ON 78-3-1.2%31 APRIL 1998. or FIG. 7B U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 8 of 18 6,082,774

800

GREAT 852. MANTOK M. M. Massaduatrogue e820 COPY NO. 373 OF 500 COPES (FIRSTED. PRINTING) huhu. "eges 330 850 THE ABOVE FINGERPRINT AND AUTOGRAPH WER AFFIXED TO THIS BOOK COVER IN MY PRESENCE ON THE DATE BELOW.

STATE OF N.Y. CO. OF PEReap} SS, A. zo 860

HARWICKU. BLINGSLEY NOTARY PUBLIC, STATE OF NEW YORK NO. 974A87OB72 DATED: 3OFEB. 1999

FIG. 8 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 9 of 18 6,082,774

900

by V/ .

()Conce ROCKET ||49 CAPTA/W TOM VONTA STORY BY - G DON KSBY

2 322 FINGERPRINT 8 2 AUTOGRAPH APPLIED BY

ARTIST TOM VONTA. WITNESSED BY:

/VA-14 2 All J. KEOTEZSKY U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 10 0f 18 6,082,774

1000 1001

1040 1039

020 RESTRICTED PRODUCTION ART PRINT BEARING GENUINE FNGERPRNT AND FACSMILE AUTOGRAPH OF TOM VONTA, WHOSE COMICART CAREER WAS CUT SHORT BY ADSABLNG CARACCOENTUST AFTER HENUMBER 55 ISSUE OF “ROCKETCAPTAIN WENT TO PRESS.

l, N. certify that Torn Vonta affixed his genuine fingerprint to this copy of his art. 1065 12.1070 9 R.J. RNR. XMOG NCARY PUBC CoUNY OF KTWCK STATE OF VRMON REGSTRATION NUMBER 048.8555X27792S5 TRMEXPRES: FEB. 30, 2001 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 11 of 18 6,082,774

l, K. Z. DUNNORFY, DID OBSERVE ARTYCURWIN, NOTED ENTERTAINER, AFFIXHIS FINGERPRINT TO THIS PHOTO GRAPH AND HISAUTOGRAPH TO THIS PHOTOGRAPHON 1154 HIS 31ST DAY OF APRILIN THE YEAR 1997, AND CERTIFY THIS STATEMENTAS BEING TRUE UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY. 1160 BEFOREME CAME K. Z. DUNNORFY WHO SWORE O THE TRUTH OF THE ABOVE STATEMENT ON 1170 THIS 3 ST DAY OF APRIL 1997. Op. 3, 1977 - Calls &. Illuscle DATE CHARLESE. MOUFOUNS NOTARY PUBLIC, GEORGIA REG. N.O. 795D 185EX42 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 12 of 18 6,082,774

1220 A LIMITED encouío PHOTO: NUMBER 23 OF OO COPES FIG. 12B U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 13 0f 18 6,082,774

1300 1301

1349

% GRODAFFXHISWATCHED ARTS HUMINT & AUTOGRAPH OHSBACK SIDE OF THIS "SNOWY OWL." PLATE. 4.4. Savity, ... FAXILL, JP. On this date (29 February 1999), i.l. Faxill, Jr., affixed his signature above under penalty of perjury in my presence.

HAOLD. MCCLAWINGER NOTARY PUBLC 1302 SAT of Old U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 14 of 18 6,082,774

1430 1400

l, Karen Bonnie Patsur, witnessed retired football player Ted "Bodzer" Vittry produce a limited runo 50 index cards (of which this is #9) to which he affixed his autograph and his fingerprint on this date (31 November 1997) at Lake Sanduskee Oklahom a. 454kau it THE PERSON KNOWN TO ME TO BE KAREN BONNE PLATSUR STATED IN MY PRESENCE AND UNDER OATH THAT T ION IS TRUE. 1 470 DATED: NOW. 31, 1997 OKLAHOMA REG. 59774Z228 TERMEXPRES: 31 JUNE 1998 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 15 0f 18 6,082,774

1530 is 540

U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 16 of 18 6,082,774

U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 17 0f 18 6,082,774

1748 1747 1847 O Q) 1848 FIG. 17 FIG. 18

te 2048 1947 2047 FIG. 19 FIG. 20

2148

2147 FIG 21 U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2000 Sheet 18 0f 18 6,082,774

6,082,774 1 2 MEMORABILIAARTICLES HAVING Thus, collectors are given a very diverse assortment of INTEGRAL COLLECTABLE kinds of base articles from which to choose but are largely ATTRACTIVENESSATTRIBUTES restricted to only one major kind of preferred-personality created attribute: the genuine autograph. There is a need to CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED give collectors greater choice by providing at least a Second APPLICATIONS major kind of preferred-personality-created integral collect ible attractiveness attribute. The availability of a second This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending major kind of preferred-personality-created attribute would U.S. application Ser. No. 08/349,751 (filed Dec. 5, 1994), make possible the manufacture of a significant diversity of which is a continuation-in-part of abandoned U.S. applica memorabilia articles heretofore unknown. tion Ser. No. 08/167,647 (filed Dec. 14, 1993). The background art encompasses affixing certain other attributes to base articles. Among these attributes are FIELD OF THE INVENTION holograms, offset-printed identification number indicia, and facsimile autographs. Such kinds of attributes are not This invention relates to the field of memorabilia articles regarded as preferred-personality-created attributes and gen and, more particularly, to articles intentionally created as 15 erally do not bring as much collectible attractiveness and collector-targeted memorabilia articles (including sports collectible value to articles as preferred-personality-created related, nonsports-related and limited edition memorabilia attributes. articles) bearing preferred-personality-created attributes The power of a preferred-personality-created attribute to (including genuine autographs), facsimile attributes increase the value of a base article is typically exponentially (including facsimile autographs), and other attributes incor greater than that of a hologram or like attribute not created porated as integral (intrinsic) attribute means for creating by a preferred personality. For example, the 15-cent high and/or enhancing attractiveness to collectors of memorabilia value (Beckett Baseball Card Monthly, September 1994, articles. page 58) of the hologram-bearing 1992 Upper Deck Extended Dave Winfield Baseball Card is increased more BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 25 than 100-fold to S19.00 (The Score Board, Inc., Advertisement, Sports Collectors Digest, Sep. 9, 1994, page Intentional integral affixing of a preferred-personality 8) by merely affixing thereto a preferred-personality-created created attribute to a base article is widely recognized by attribute in the form of a genuine autograph. This is a memorabilia dealers and collectors as a way to add collect definitive example of the failure of a hologram to bring to an ible value to the article. Such intentional affixing involves article even one percent of the value conferred by affixing a forming the preferred-personality-created attribute as an major preferred-personality-created attribute. integral attribute means for creating and/or enhancing attrac tiveness of the article to collectors of memorabilia articles. One of the biggest problems faced by collectorS is deter Indicating or implying that the article is of a limited edition mining whether or not the Script-written name of a preferred production is widely recognized by dealers and collectors as personality on an article is a genuine autograph. The quan 35 tity of fraudulently autographed items in the present mar a way to further increase collectible value of the article. ketplace is mindboggling. For example, a television inter By merely forming and affixing a preferred-personality View with a person who had been convicted of Selling items created attribute on a base article of relatively insubstantial bearing counterfeit autographs revealed that this one perSon worth, a preferred personality (a sports personality, an had sold “more than 75,000 fake signatures” (Zachary Reid, entertainment personality, a political personality, or a like 40 “A Closer Look: The Score Board Cracking Down On Fake personality) may transform the base article into a memora Autographs.” Tuff Stuff, April 1993, pages 27–28). The bilia article of Substantial value. In the present marketplace, magnitude of the problem caused by items bearing bogus the predominant preferred-personality-created integral col autographs has become So intolerable that legislation has lectible attractiveness attribute is the genuine autograph (an been initiated in a number of States to legally require a letter autograph personally created by a preferred personality and 45 of authenticity for each Sale of an item bearing an autograph not a facsimile thereof). (Scott Newman, “Faking The Romance: Fraud And Coun The genuine autograph of the memorabilia article created terfeiting. Few People In The Memorabilia Industry Want To to appeal to collectors should not be confused with the Talk About It. But That's The Only Way To Correct It," Tuff non-collector-targeted utilitarian Signature of a personal Stuff, February 1993, pages 116-118). check, real-estate-transfer document, employment contract, 50 Fraudulent autographs are often produced by counterfeit or like instrument created for a utilitarian purpose without erS intending to Sell these imitations to unsuspecting cus intent to create attractiveness to collectors. Likewise, no tomers. This intentional counterfeiting for illicit profit is not other collector-targeted attribute should be regarded as Syn the only way through which bogus autographs enter the onymous with any indicium or marking Substantially created memorabilia marketplace. Many Sports players are over for a non-collector-oriented, utilitarian use. 55 whelmed by requests for autographs from fans and other In the current marketplace, collectors are offered genu collectors. To meet this heavy demand, a number of players inely autographed memorabilia articles encompassing a con resort to using ghost writers, autopenning machines and siderable diversity of base articles, including: items origi rubber Stamps to affix imitation autographs to items. Usually nally manufactured Substantially to appeal to collectors (for Such player-authorized imitations are not made with any example, trading cards, fine art lithographic prints, hall-of 60 intent by the players to deceive fans for illicit profit. In fact, fame memorabilia items, and commemorative philatelic Such imitation autographs are normally distributed free to items); items originally manufactured as Sporting equipment fans, at a financial cost to a player or the player's team, (for example, baseballs, baseball bats, footballs, basketballs, resulting in a loSS, not a profit. Nevertheless, despite the hockey pucks, and Sports uniforms); and items originally goodwill intended by this player-authorized creation of manufactured for non-collector-targeted utilitarian purposes 65 imitations, these fake autographs are Substantially just as (for example, 3-by-5 inch index cards and general news bogus and WorthleSS to collectors as the fraudulent auto periodicals). graphs made for illicit profit by unauthorized counterfeiters. 6,082,774 3 4 Flooding the marketplace are sports-related autographed telephone with the entity. These extrinsic means allow a articles that contain nothing incorporated as parts of the customer to later confirm information about the article articles to authenticate the genuineness of the autographs. through a registration "hotline.” The average collector or investor is often left with no The certificate-of-authenticity of Molee et al. Overcomes meaningful basis on which to judge the authenticity of the 5 Some of the problems inherent in other certificates-of autograph on a purchased article other than the “good faith” authenticity of the background art. However, Molee et al. of the Selling dealer in a marketplace where many dealers fail to provide a leSS cumberSome way to authenticate an have dubious reputations and where distrust abounds. Col autograph. In fact, Molee et al. add cumberSomeness and lectors who invest in Such articles frequently find that these remoteneSS to the authentication process by introducing cannot readily be resold to dealers because of the nearly 10 customer communication with a registration "hotline” entity. ever-present distrust of autographed items. If the entity eventually shuts down its “hotline' or goes To overcome the widespread worries of investors and out-of-business, a customer may be left with no way to gain other collectors about bogus autographs, a number of memo access to the master record or list. The system of Molee et rabilia dealers and companies have produced devices to al. is excessively dependent on authentication means extrin assure collectors of the genuineness of autographs being 15 sic from the article being authenticated. offered. Most of the articles Supposedly authenticated under Although Seemingly recognizing the integral collectible this background art are associated with “extrinsic devices' enhancement power of the genuine autograph, Molee et al. (devices physically separate from the involved memorabilia fail to present a Second major kind of preferred-personality articles). created integral collectible attractiveness attribute. A particularly prevalent form of extrinsic device is the 2O The value of the hologram of Molee et al. is in its function certificate-of-authenticity (a certificate or letter guaranteeing as an authentication device Substantially dependent on the the authenticity of the involved autograph and/or article). A continuing existence and availability of Such extrinsic certificate-of-authenticity may be created before an auto devices as the certificate-of-authenticity and master record graphed article is Sold to a collector, at the time the article 25 or list. is acquired by the collector, or after the article has been Molee et al. teach away from comprehensively self acquired by the collector. A certificate-of-authenticity may authenticating memorabilia articles having integral authen be based on hindsight “authentication” by a handwriting tication attribute means for holding the detailed expert years after the creation of an autograph. Such hind (comprehensive) authentication data printed on their Sight “authentication, at best, reflects expert or educated certificate-of-authenticity and Stored in their master record opinion and not witneSS-based authentication. A certificate of-authenticity may be notarized (Richard Albersheim, “The or list. Autograph Report: What's Selling And Alternatives To Card The prior art clearly emphasizes the use of extrinsic Shows.” Tuff Stuff, November 1993, page 139). devices to authenticate the predominant kind of preferred The limited value of a certificate-of-authenticity or like personality-created integral collectible attractiveness device is well recognized by experts in the field of Sports 35 attribute (the genuine autograph). memorabilia. Such certificates are too often of little or no The prior art shows the failure of those of ordinary skill value in protecting collectors from con-artists peddling in the art to recognize the need for a non-autographic, fraudulently autographed items (Mike Breeden, Scott integral attribute having the potential to function at, near or Gregg, Michael Litos, Dennis Madigan, and Jim Warren II, above the level of the genuine autograph as a convenient, “Certificates Of Authenticity, Are Two Signatures Worth 40 expeditious and economical preferred-personality-created More Than One'?," Tuff Stuff, February 1994, page 162; Jim attribute means for making articles Substantially more attrac Hawkins, “Eye Of The Hawk: Some Aren't Worth Paper tive to memorabilia collectors. They’re Printed On, Certificate Of Authenticity Only AS The prior art shows the failure of those of ordinary skill Good As Issuer's Reputation,” Sports Collectors Digest, in the art to recognize the need for a method of producing a Oct. 21, 1994, page 24; Terry Melia, “Finding The Comfort 45 memorabilia article including two major kinds of preferred Zone, Are Certificates Of Authenticity Worth Even The personality-created attributes (the genuine autograph and a Pieces Of Paper They're Printed On?," Encyclopedia of non-autographic attribute) capable of Synergistically func Sports Memorabilia & Price Guide, December 1994/ tioning together as means for Substantially increasing attrac tiveness to memorabilia collectors. January 1995, pages 8-10). 50 That the written contents of a certificate-of-authenticity The prior art shows the failure of those of ordinary skill are not physically integral with the autographed article being in the art to recognize the need for a Second major kind of authenticated allows easy disasSociation of the critical preferred-personality-created attribute capable of fulfilling authentication data from the article. Such a certificate-of the role of a non-autographic memorial marking or indicium authenticity may become lost or become associated, by 55 having an appeal to memorabilia collectorS Substantially accident or fraudulent action, with a bogusly autographed greater than the appeal of a hologram or like device. article. The prior art shows the failure of those of ordinary skill The authentication system of Molee et al. (U.S. Pat. No. in the art to recognize the need for a method of producing a 5,267,756) includes a kind of certificate-of-authenticity. comprehensively Self-authenticating memorabilia article Molee et al. teach affixing a first hologram with a unique 60 having integral authentication attributes directly providing code number to an article and a Second hologram with the detailed authentication data to a collector viewing the article. Same unique code number to a certificate-of-authenticity. Some notable preferred personalities have significantly Molee et al. further teach a registration “hotline” entity reduced or Substantially complete loSS of ability to create having a master record or list containing the unique code and affix a preferred-personality-created attribute in the form number and information on the article to which the number 65 of a legible and consistent handwritten autograph. Such applies. The system of Molee et al. further includes extrinsic notable preferred personalities Suffer from paralysis of means for a purchaser to register the article by mail or limbs, limitation of manual locomotion, blindness, and other 6,082,774 S 6 handicaps resulting from diabetes, Strokes, Severe arthritis, attractive to memorabilia collectors; (4) means for a pre disabling accidents, and like causes. ferred personality to affix conveniently and legibly, as an The problems resulting from writing-handicapped pre attribute attractive to memorabilia collectors, to an article ferred personalities being unable to meet the demands of lacking a Surface region Sufficient for the placement of a fans and other collectors for genuine autographs are well normal genuine autograph; and (5) means for a preferred recognized by memorabilia experts (Mark A. Baker, Base personality to affix and Substantially cover a predetermined, ball Autograph Handbook, First Edition, 1990; Mark A. discretely-bounded Surface area of an article as a personally Baker, Baseball Autograph Handbook, Second Edition, created marking attractive to memorabilia collectors. 1991; Scott Crowder, “In The World Of Sports,” Autograph Those of ordinary skill in the prior art have also substan Collector, October 1993, pages 58–59; Dave Miedema, “Up tially failed to address the need for widespread use of a Autograph Alley: Hall Of Famers Make Autograph News,” memorabilia-collector-targeted integral comprehensive Sports Collectors Digest, Jan. 30, 1987, pages 176, 184 & authentication attribute as a means for integrally and com 192; Dave Miedema, “Autographs: Unhealthy, Health Prob prehensively authenticating one or more preferred lems Limit The Appearances Of Older Hall Of Famers,” personality-created attributes on an intentionally-created Baseball Cards, October 1987, pages 26 & 28; Dave 15 memorabilia article So as to make the article more appealing Miedema, “Autographs: Regular Guys, These Hall Of Fam to memorabilia collectors. This failure of those of ordinary ers Are Pretty Good About Their Autographs,” Baseball skill in the prior art has resulted in the Substantial lack of a Cards, November 1987, pages 18 & 20). diversity of collector-targeted, comprehensively Self Despite these well-known problems facing writing authenticating memorabilia articles in the marketplace. handicapped preferred personalities, those of ordinary skill The present invention overcomes the above-described in the prior art have not offered substantial remedial inven deficiencies of the prior art and fulfills the above-described tions. needs not addressed by those of ordinary skill in the prior art. The prior art shows the failure of those of ordinary skill in the art to teach a major kind of preferred-personality OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 25 created integral collectible attractiveness attribute which One object of the present invention is to provide a Second may be conveniently created and affixed by a handwriting major kind of preferred-personality-created integral collect disabled preferred personality. ible attractiveness attribute as a preferred-personality Certain kinds of base articles have no Surfaces of Suffi created attribute means for intentionally creating and/or cient Size to allow a preferred personality, especially one enhancing attractiveness of an article to memorabilia col having a lengthy Signature, to conveniently and legibly affix lectors. normal renditions of his or her genuine autograph. Golf balls and Standard-sized milkcaps are examples of Such base Another object is to provide embodiments of collector articles having limited writing Space. Furthermore, collec targeted memorabilia articles each of which comprises both tors often favor the placement or restriction of a genuine the genuine autograph and the Second major kind of autograph or other attribute to a specific Surface region of an 35 preferred-personality-created integral collectible attractive article (for example, collectors generally desire that a pre neSS attribute, allowing these two attributes to Synergisti ferred personality creating a single-autograph baseball affix cally interact with each other to enhance attractiveness of the his or her autograph to the “sweet spot” of the ball). article to memorabilia collectors. A further object is to provide the second major kind of Therefore, a need clearly exists for a Second major kind 40 preferred-personality-created integral collectible attractive of preferred-personality-created integral collectible attrac neSS attribute as an integral attribute capable of fulfilling the tiveness attribute that may be conveniently and legibly role of a non-autographic memorial marking or indicium affixed to base articles having limited Surface areas. And a having an appeal to memorabilia collectorS Substantially need clearly exists for a method to restrict the placement of greater than the appeal of a hologram or like device affixed a preferred-personality-created integral collectible attrac 45 tiveness attribute to a predetermined portion of a base merely as an authentication or anti-counterfeiting feature. article. The prior art demonstrates those of ordinary skill in Another object is to provide collector-targeted compre the art have failed to adequately address these needs. hensively Self-authenticating memorabilia articles having The prior art substantially limits collector choice to integral authentication attributes directly providing detailed articles comprising only one major kind of preferred 50 authentication data to collectors viewing the articles. personality-created integral collectible attractiveness Still another object is to provide intrinsic and compre attribute. And the background art Substantially limits col hensive authentication attributes So integrally affixed as lector choice to an availability of comprehensive authenti parts of the Single unified body of tangible material com cation devices that are extrinsic, easily disasSociated from prising a memorabilia article that these attributes cannot memorablia articles, too frequently dubious, often remote, 55 readily be accidentally or intentionally disassociated from and/or Sometimes dependent on an authentication entity the article. remaining Solvent in business. Yet another object is to provide intrinsic and comprehen Those of ordinary skill in the prior art have not addressed Sive authentication attributes that are of Sufficient Scope to the need for a Second major kind of preferred-personality bring the perSons certifying the authenticity of a preferred created integral collectible attractiveness attribute Suitable 60 personality-created integral collectible attractiveness as a: (1) means for integrally creating and/or enhancing attribute on a memorabilia article Substantially under laws collectible attractiveness of an article to memorabilia col relating to oaths, notarizations and the like. lectors; (2) means for integrally and Synergistically interact Still another object is to provide comprehensive authen ing with a genuine autograph on an article to enhance tication without the problems inherent in an authentication attractiveness of the article to memorabilia collectors; (3) 65 System excessively dependent on the Survival of a registra means for a handwriting-disabled preferred personality to tion "hotline” Subject to busineSS conditions and decisions affix conveniently and legibly to an article as an attribute causing registration operations to cease. 6,082,774 7 8 Yet another object is to provide a major preferred ing So as to transfer detailed imaging of skin patterns of the personality-created integral collectible attractiveness finger to the Surface. attribute which may be conveniently, legibly and consis The genuine fingerprint may be formed with or without tently created and affixed by-handwriting-disabled preferred use of a removable mask. A mask having an aperture of a personalities. predetermined shape and predetermined size may be tem A still further object is to provide a method for a preferred porarily placed on the base article So as to restrict the personality to affix and Substantially cover a predetermined, formation of the genuine fingerprint to a predetermined Surface area of the article Substantially equivalent in shape discretely-bounded Section of a Surface of an article with a and size to the aperture. ExceSS fingerprint-forming marking as a personally created attribute attractive to memo Substance(s) will be kept off adjacent Surface areas of the rabilia collectors. base article by the presence of mask material Surrounding And a yet further object is to provide collectors with a the predetermined Surface area. The mask material prevents wide diversity of previously unavailable limited edition the genuine fingerprint from having unwanted coverage of memorabilia articles encompassing a variety of integral parts of the base article where no fingerprinting is desired. collectible attractiveness attributes. The predetermined shape of the aperture of the mask may 15 be Substantially Symmetrical or nonsymmetrical. The pre SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION determined shape of the aperture may be related to the According to the present invention, the foregoing and profession or another life aspect of the preferred personality other objects and advantages are attained by the method of (for example, an entertainment personality who is a movie this invention producing a new Selection of integral collect Star may wish to use a Star-shaped aperture to form his or her ible attractiveness attributes for use on a large variety of genuine fingerprint) or unrelated to any Such life aspect. individual base articles So as to allow the creation of a great Regardless of the shape and Size of the genuine diversity of new kinds of collector-targeted memorabilia fingerprint, a borderline Substantially delineating the perim articles. eter of the genuine fingerprint may be created on the base In accordance with aspects of the method of this article to more clearly define the bounds of the fingerprint invention, an integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set 25 and to give the fingerprint Specifically and the article gen is affixed to a Selected base article to enhance and/or create erally a neater appearance. attractiveness of the article to memorabilia collectors. This A preferred personality handicapped by a writing disabil attribute Set minimally comprises a requisite integral col ity may conveniently, legibly and consistently create and lectible attractiveness attribute of a Selected preferred per affix a preferred-personality-created integral collectible Sonality in the form of: a genuine autograph or genuine attractiveness attribute in the form of a genuine fingerprint. fingerprint personally created by the preferred personality, In accordance with still further aspects of the method of or a facsimile fingerprint of the preferred personality. Each this invention, one or more authentication attributes may be integral collectible attractiveness attribute affixed to a base affixed to the base article to authenticate a preferred article is a member of the integral collectible attractiveness 35 personality-created integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set of the article. Each memorabilia article created attribute (a genuine autograph or a genuine fingerprint). An within the Scope of the present invention comprises an authentication attribute is integrally affixed as a part of the integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set minimally article to increase collector confidence in the genuineness of including a genuine fingerprint, or a genuine autograph and a preferred-personality-created integral collectible attrac at least one additional attribute, or a facsimile fingerprint. 40 tiveness attribute. Increase in collector confidence is The Selected preferred personality is an active profes expected to increase attractiveness of the article to collec Sional athlete, a retired professional athlete, a Sports hall tors. Thus, an authentication attribute is also an integral of-fame member, a notable amateur athlete, a notable Sports collectible attractiveness attribute. The affixing of an authen related personality, an entertainment personality, a mass tication attribute to the base article is not merely intended to media personality, a notable academic personality, a notable 45 authenticate: the affixing is intended to increase attractive author, a notable political personality, a heroic personality, a neSS of the article to memorabilia collectors. public figure, a famous personality, a comicbook-related The witness Signature, the certifying nonwitness personality, an artistic personality, or a like personality. Signature, and the notary public Signature of this invention, The base article may be an item originally manufactured are integral attributes. Each is affixed to the base article as for a Substantially non-collector-targeted utilitarian purpose, 50 a part of a larger authentication attribute (an authentication an item originally manufactured as an item of Sporting Statement or notarial confirmation text), as a part of another equipment, an item originally created as a memorabilia item integral attribute, or as an individual integral attribute. The bearing features intended to be attractive to memorabilia ultimate intended use of each Signature attribute of this collectors, or an item originally created to Serve as a base invention is to increase the attractiveness of the article to article of an embodiment of the present invention. The base 55 memorabilia collectors. article may be related or unrelated to a Sport. In its pre Among the other integral collectible attractiveness existing State, the base article may be with or without attributes of this invention that may be affixed to the base collectible value and/or attractiveness to memorabilia col article, either individually or as part of another attribute, are: lectors. a name of the preferred personality; the date of the creating In accordance with further aspects of the method of this 60 and affixing of at least one preferred-personality-created invention, if the requisite preferred-personality-created inte integral collectible attractiveness attribute; a name of a gral collectible attractiveness attribute of the Selected pre geographic location in which the creating and affixing of at ferred personality being affixed to the base article comprises least one preferred-personality-created integral collectible a genuine fingerprint, a finger of the preferred personality attractiveness attribute occurred; an anti-counterfeiting touches a Surface during the formation of the genuine 65 marking, a hologram; a facsimile autograph of the preferred fingerprint. One or more fingerprint-forming Substances are personality; and organic matter containing genetic informa interfaced with the finger and the Surface during the touch tion from the biotic body of the preferred personality. 6,082,774 10 A pictorial image of the preferred personality is another as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: limited edi integral attribute that may be affixed to the base article to tion markings, a genuine fingerprint of a preferred increase attractiveness of the article to memorabilia collec personality, and a name and pictorial image of the preferred torS. personality. The base article may have a defined and prepared Surface FIG. 3B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment area created for affixing at least one preferred-personality of the invention of FIG. 3A created integral collectible attractiveness attribute and/or FIG. 4A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment other specific integral collectible attractiveness attributes. of the invention having affixed to the base article (a The defined and prepared Surface area may be constructed to Slammer) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: a more readily allow clearer and better affixing of one or more genuine autograph and a genuine fingerprint of a preferred attributes to the base article with intent to make the article personality, a witneSS-signed authentication Statement, more attractive to memorabilia collectors. notarial confirmation text, and a pictorial image of the In accordance with yet further aspects of this invention, preferred personality. the memorabilia article may be one of a limited production 15 FIG. 4B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment of substantially similar or related memorabilia articles. With of the invention of FIG. 4A. intent to increase intrinsic attractiveness to collectors, this FIG. 5A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment restricted production may be indicated by affixing limited of the invention having affixed to the base article (a phila edition markings to the base article. telic item) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: a The memorabilia article of this invention may be associ genuine autograph and a genuine fingerprint of a preferred ated with promotional matter (including printed merchan personality, a borderline Substantially delineating the perim dise packaging in which the article is enclosed). The printed eter of the genuine fingerprint, and a name and pictorial information can include pictorial representations of the image of the preferred personality; the genuine autograph preferred personality, facsimile autographs, facsimile and genuine fingerprint are affixed within a defined and fingerprints, limited edition promotional indicia, and the 25 prepared Surface area created for affixing preferred like. personality-created integral collectible attractiveness The method of the present invention encompasses cre attributes and/or other integral collectible attractiveness ation of a diversity of collector-targeted memorabilia attributes. articles, utilizing different quantitative and qualitative com FIG. 5B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment binations of preferred-personality-created and/or other inte of the invention of FIG. 5A. gral collectible attractiveness attributes. Diverse kinds of FIG. 6 is a view of an embodiment of the invention having base articles are used. The method of the present invention affixed to the base article (a three-dimensional collectible encompasses creation of a Superior quality of collector item) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: limited targeted memorabilia articles. Created by this method are edition markings, a genuine autograph and a genuine fin memorabilia articles bearing combinations of preferred 35 gerprint of a preferred personality, a borderline Substantially personality-created integral attributes and comprehensively delineating the perimeter of the genuine fingerprint, and a Self-authenticating features not available to collectors under name of the preferred personality. the prior art. The present invention makes available collector-targeted memorabilia articles having intrinsic FIG. 7A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment trustworthiness and collectible attractiveness unknown to of the invention having affixed to the base article (a tangible 40 work of fine art) as integral collectible attractiveness collectors under the prior art. attributes: limited edition markings, a genuine autograph The present invention includes all products of the method and a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality, a of the invention. These products encompass all collectible witness-signed authentication Statement, and notarial con articles produced by the method of the invention. firmation text. 45 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 7B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment of the invention of FIG. 7A. FIG. 1A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment FIG. 8 is a view of an embodiment of the invention having of the invention having affixed to the base article (a trading affixed to the base article (a bound publication) as integral card) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: limited collectible attractiveness attributes: limited edition edition markings, a genuine autograph and a genuine fin 50 markings, a genuine autograph and a genuine fingerprint of gerprint created by a preferred personality, and a name and a preferred personality, a borderline delineating the perim pictorial image of the preferred personality. eter of the genuine fingerprint, and an authentication State FIG. 1B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment ment signed by a witness who is a notary public. of the invention of FIG. 1A. 55 FIG. 9 is a view of an embodiment of the invention having FIG. 2A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment affixed to the base article (a comicbook) as integral collect of the invention having affixed to the base article (a trading ible attractiveneSS attributes: a genuine autograph and a card) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: limited genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality, a borderline edition markings, a genuine fingerprint created by a pre Substantially delineating the perimeter of the genuine ferred personality, a borderline Substantially delineating the 60 fingerprint, and a witness-signed authentication Statement; perimeter of the genuine fingerprint, a witness-signed these attributes are affixed within a defined and prepared authentication Statement, notarial confirmation text, and a Surface area created for affixing preferred-personality pictorial image of the preferred personality. created integral collectible attractiveness attributes and/or FIG. 2B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment other integral collectible attractiveness attributes. of the invention of FIG. 2A. 65 FIG. 10A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment FIG. 3A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment of the invention having affixed to the base article (a tangible of the invention having affixed to the base article (a milkcap) work of comicbook-related art) as integral collectible attrac 6,082,774 11 12 tiveness attributes: a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality-created genuine fingerprints of a predetermined personality, a facsimile autograph of the preferred shape (Substantially heart-shaped) and predetermined size. personality, an authentication Statement signed by a certify FIG. 19 is a view of a mask used in the creation of ing perSon, notarial confirmation text, and a hologram. collector-targeted memorabilia articles bearing preferred FIG. 10B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment personality-created genuine fingerprints of a predetermined of the invention of FIG. 10A. shape (Substantially football-shaped) and predetermined FIG. 11A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment SZC. of the invention having affixed to the base article (a FIG. 20 is a view of a mask used in the creation of photograph) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: collector-targeted memorabilia articles bearing preferred a genuine autograph and a genuine fingerprint of a depicted personality-created genuine fingerprints of a predetermined preferred personality, a witness-signed authentication shape (Substantially baseball-bat-shaped) and predetermined Statement, and a pictorial image covering Substantially 100 SZC. percent of the Surface area of the obverse side. FIG. 21 is a view of a mask used in the creation of FIG. 11B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment collector-targeted memorabilia articles bearing preferred of the invention of FIG. 11A. 15 personality-created genuine fingerprints of a predetermined FIG. 12A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment shape (Substantially star-shaped) and predetermined size. of the invention having affixed to the base article (a FIG. 22 is a view of a finger (coated with a fingerprint photograph) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: forming-Substance) of a preferred personality being with limited edition markings, a genuine autograph and a genuine drawn after touching a base article through the aperture of a fingerprint of a preferred personality, and a pictorial image mask So as to form a fingerprint of a predetermined shape covering more than 80 percent of the Surface area of the and predetermined size as a preferred-personality-created obverse side (with the image including a depiction of the integral collectible attribute. preferred personality); the genuine autograph and genuine fingerprint are affixed within a defined and prepared Surface LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS area created for affixing preferred-personality-created inte 25 gral collectible attractiveness attributes and/or other integral 100: a trading card (sports card) comprising the base collectible attractiveness attributes. article of the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 12B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment 101: obverse side of base article 100. of the invention of FIG. 12A. 102: reverse side of base article 100. FIG. 13A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment 120: limited edition markings. of the invention having affixed to the base article (a collec 130: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. tor's plate) as integral collectible attractiveness attributes: 140: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality limited edition markings, a genuine autograph and a genuine who created genuine autograph 130. fingerprint of a preferred personality, a facsimile autograph 35 and a facsimile fingerprint of the preferred personality, a 152: a name of the preferred personality who created witneSS-Signed authentication Statement, and notarial con genuine autograph 130 and genuine fingerprint 140. firmation text. 193: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who FIG. 13B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment created genuine autograph 130 and genuine fingerprint 140. of the invention of FIG. 13A. 40 200: a trading card (nonsports card) comprising the base FIG. 14A is a view of the obverse side of an embodiment article of the embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B. of the invention having affixed to the base article (a non 201: obverse side of base article 200. collector-targeted utilitarian item) as integral collectible 202: reverse side of base article 200. attractiveness attributes: limited edition markings, a genuine 220: limited edition markings. autograph and a genuine fingerprint of a preferred 45 personality, a borderline Substantially delineating the perim 240: a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality. eter of the genuine fingerprint, a witneSS-signed authentica 241: a borderline substantially delineating the perimeter tion Statement, notarial confirmation text. of genuine fingerprint 240. FIG. 14B is a view of the reverse side of the embodiment 250: a Statement having authentication wording. of the invention of FIG. 14A. 50 252: a name of the preferred personality who created FIG. 15 is a view of an embodiment of the invention genuine fingerprint 240. having affixed to the base article (an item of Sporting 254: the date on which genuine fingerprint 240 was equipment) as integral preferred-personality-created collect created. ible attractiveness attributes: limited edition markings, and a 55 256: a name of the geographic location at which genuine genuine autograph and a genuine fingerprint of a preferred fingerprint 240 was created. personality. 260: a signature of a witness. FIG. 16 is a view of an embodiment of the invention comprising a collector-targeted memorabilia article (a golf 270: notarial confirmation text. ball bearing a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality) 280: a signature of a notary public. and related promotional matter (merchandise packaging). 60 293: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who FIG. 17 is a view of a mask used in the creation of created genuine fingerprint 240. collector-targeted memorabilia articles bearing preferred 300: a milkcap comprising the base article of the embodi personality-created genuine fingerprints of a predetermined ment of FIGS 3A and 3B. shape (Substantially circular) and predetermined size. 65 301: obverse side of base article 300. FIG. 18 is a view of a mask used in the creation of 302: reverse side of base article 300. collector-targeted memorabilia articles bearing preferred 320: limited edition markings. 6,082,774 13 14 340: a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality. 800: a bound publication (book) comprising the base 352: a name of the preferred personality who created article of the embodiment of FIG. 8. genuine fingerprint 340. 820: limited edition markings. 393: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who 830: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. created genuine fingerprint 340. 840: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 400: a slammer comprising the base article of the embodi who created genuine autograph 830. ment of FIGS 4A and 4B. 841: a borderline substantially delineating the perimeter 401: obverse side of base article 400. of genuine fingerprint 840. 402: reverse side of base article 400. 1O 850: a statement having authentication wording. 430: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 852: a name of the preferred personality who created 440: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality genuine autograph 830 and genuine fingerprint 840. who created genuine fingerprint 430. 860: a signature of a witness who is a notary public. 450: a Statement having authentication wording. 15 900: a comicbook comprising the base article of the 460: a signature of a witness. embodiment of FIG. 9. 470: notarial confirmation text. 910: a defined and prepared surface area created for 480: a signature of a notary public. affixing preferred-personality-created integral collectible attractiveness attributes and/or other integral collectible 493: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who attractiveness attributes. created genuine autograph 430 and genuine fingerprint 440. 930: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 500: a philatelic item (commemorative envelope) com prising the base article of the embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 940: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 5B. who created genuine autograph 930. 941: a borderline substantially delineating the perimeter 501: obverse side of base article 500. 25 of genuine fingerprint 940. 502: reverse side of base article 500: 950: a statement having authentication wording. 510: a defined and prepared surface area created for affixing preferred-personality-created integral collectible 960: a signature of a witness. attractiveness attributes and/or other integral collectible 1000: a tangible work of comicbook-related art compris attractiveness attributes. ing the base article of the embodiment of FIGS. 10A and 520: limited edition markings. 1OB. 530: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 1001: obverse side of base article 1000. 540: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 1002: reverse side of base article 1000. who created genuine autograph 530. 35 1020: limited edition markings. 541: a borderline substantially delineating the perimeter 1039: facsimile autograph of a preferred personality. of genuine fingerprint 540. 1040: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 552: a name of the preferred personality who created whose facsimile autograph 1039 is affixed to base article genuine autograph 530 and genuine fingerprint 540. 1000. 593: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who 40 1050: a Statement having authentication wording. created genuine autograph 530 and genuine fingerprint 540. 1065: a signature of a certifying perSon. 600: a three-dimensional figurine comprising the base 1070: notarial confirmation text. article of the embodiment of in FIG. 6. 1080: a signature of a notary public. 620: limited edition markings. 45 1099: a hologram. 630; a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 1100: a photograph comprising the base article of the 640: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality embodiment of FIGS. 11A and 11B. who created genuine autograph 630. 1101: obverse side of base article 1100. 641: a borderline substantially delineating the perimeter 1102: reverse side of base article 1102. of genuine fingerprint 640. 50 1130: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 652: a name of the preferred personality who created 1140: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality genuine autograph 630 and genuine fingerprint 640. who created genuine autograph 1130. 700: a tangible work of fine art (lithographic print) 1150: a statement having authentication wording. comprising the base article of the embodiment of FIGS. 7A 55 1154: the date on which genuine autograph 1130 and and 7B. genuine fingerprint 1140 were created and affixed to base 701: obverse side of base article 700. article 1100. 702: reverse side of base article 700. 1160: a signature of a witness. 720: limited edition markings. 1170: notarial confirmation text. 730: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 60 1180: a signature of a notary public. 740: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 1193: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who who created genuine autograph 730. created genuine autograph 1130 and genuine fingerprint 750: a statement having authentication wording. 1140. 760: a signature of a witness. 65 1200: a photograph comprising the base article of the 770: notarial confirmation text. embodiment of FIGS. 12A and 12B. 780: a signature of a notary public. 1201: obverse side of base article 1200. 6,082,774 15 16 1202: reverse side of base article 1200. 1686: limited edition promotional indicia on packaging 1210: a defined and prepared Surface area created for 1685. affixing preferred-personality-created integral collectible 1687: imitation fingerprint on packaging 1685. attractiveness attributes and/or other integral collectible 1688: a pictorial representation of a preferred personality attractiveness attributes. on packaging 1685. 1220: limited edition markings. 1747: a substantially flat mask used in the creation of a 1230: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. genuine fingerprint as a preferred-personality-created inte 1240: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality gral collectible attractiveness attribute of a predetermined who created genuine autograph 1230. 1O shape and predetermined size. 1293: a pictorial image of the preferred personality who 1748; an aperture of a predetermined shape (substantially created genuine autograph 1230 and genuine fingerprint circular) and predetermined size. 1240. 1847: a substantially flat mask used in the creation of a 1300: a collector's plate comprising the base article of the genuine fingerprint as a preferred-personality-created inte embodiment of FIGS. 13A and 13B. 15 gral collectible attractiveness attribute of a predetermined 1301: obverse side of base article 1300. shape and predetermined size. 1848: an aperture of a predetermined shape (substantially 1302: reverse side of base article 1300. heart-shaped) and predetermined size. 1320: limited edition markings. 1947: a substantially flat mask used in the creation of a 1330: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. genuine fingerprint as a preferred-personality-created inte 1339; a facsimile autograph of the preferred personality gral collectible attractiveness attribute of a predetermined who created genuine autograph 1330. shape and predetermined size. 1340: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 1948: an aperture of a predetermined shape (substantially who created genuine autograph 1330. 25 football-shaped) and predetermined size. 1349: a facsimile fingerprint of the preferred personality 2047: a substantially flat mask used in the creation of a who created genuine autograph 1349. genuine fingerprint as a preferred-personality-created inte 1350: a statement having authentication wording. gral collectible attractiveness attribute of a predetermined 1360: a signature of a witness. shape and predetermined size. 1370: notarial confirmation text. 2048: an aperture of a predetermined shape (substantially 1380: a signature of a notary public. baseball-bat-shaped) and predetermined size. 1400; a utilitarian item (index card) comprising the base 2147: a substantially flat mask used in the creation of a article of the embodiment of FIGS. 14A and 14B. genuine fingerprint as a preferred-perSonality-created inte gral collectible attractiveness attribute of a predetermined 1401: obverse side of base article 1400. 35 shape and predetermined size. 1402: reverse side of base article 1400. 2148: an aperture of a predetermined shape (Substantially 1420: limited edition markings. Star-shaped) and predetermined size. 1430: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 2200: an item of Sporting equipment (golf ball) compris 1440: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality 40 ing the base article of the embodiment of FIG. 22. who created genuine autograph 1430. 2240: a genuine fingerprint of a predetermined shape and 1441: a borderline substantially delineating the perimeter Size formed by a preferred personality touching a Surface of of genuine fingerprint 1440. base article 2200 with a finger, coated with a fingerprint 1450: a statement having authentication wording. forming Substance, pressed through aperture 2248 of mask 1452: a name of the preferred personality who created 45 2247. genuine autograph 1430 and genuine fingerprint 1440. 2243: exceSS fingerprint-forming Substance deposited on 1454: the date on which genuine autograph 1430 and mask 2247. genuine fingerprint 1440 were created. 2244: fingerprint-forming Substance (shown on a finger of 1456: a name of the geographic location at which genuine the preferred personality who created genuine fingerprint autograph 1430 and genuine fingerprint 1440 were created. 50 2240). 1460: a signature of a witness. 224.5: inner (aperture-surrounding) edge of mask 2247. 1470: notarial confirmation text. 2246: outer edge of mask 2247. 1480: a signature of a notary public. 2247: a mask used in the creation of genuine fingerprint 1500: an item of sporting equipment (baseball) compris 55 2240 as a preferred-personality-created integral collectible ing the base article of the embodiment of FIG. 15. attractiveness attribute of a predetermined shape and prede 1520; limited edition markings. termined size. 1530: a genuine autograph of a preferred personality. 2248: an aperture of a predetermined shape and prede 1540: a genuine fingerprint of the preferred personality termined size. 60 who created genuine autograph 1530. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE 1600: an item of sporting equipment (golf ball) compris INVENTION ing the base article of the embodiment of FIG. 16. Sixteen embodiments of the invention are shown in FIGS. 1640: a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality. 1A and 1B, FIGS. 2A and 2B, FIGS. 3A and 3B, FIGS. 4A 1641: a borderline substantially following the perimeter 65 and 4B, FIGS. 5A & 5B, FIG. 6, FIGS. 7A and 7B, FIG. 8, of genuine fingerprint 1640. FIG. 9, FIGS. 10A and 10B, FIGS. 11A and 11B, FIGS. 12A 1685: merchandise packaging. and 12B, FIGS. 13A and 13B, FIGS. 14A and 14B, FIG. 15, 6,082,774 17 18 and FIG. 16. Each of these sixteen embodiments comprises graphic print). Base article 700 has two sides, obverse side a Selected base article and at least one attribute Selected for 701 and reverse side 702. Affixed to base article 700 as affixing to the base article as: a preferred-personality-created integral collectible attractiveness attributes are: genuine integral collectible attractiveness attribute in the form of a fingerprint 740, genuine autograph 730, authentication state genuine fingerprint, a preferred-personality-created integral ment 750 bearing witness signature 760, notarial confirma collectible attractiveness attribute in the form of a genuine tion text 770 bearing notary public signature 780, and autograph; or an integral collectible attractiveness attribute limited edition markings 720. in the form of a facsimile fingerprint of a preferred perSon FIG.8 shows an embodiment comprising base article 800, ality. which is a bound publication (a book). Affixed to base article FIGS. 1A and 1B show an embodiment comprising base 800 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes are: genu article 100, which is a trading card. Base article 100 has two ine fingerprint 840, fingerprint borderline 841, genuine sides, obverse side 101 and reverse side 102. Affixed to base autograph 830, authentication statement 850 bearing signa article 100 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes ture 860 of a witness who is a notary public, name 852 of the are: genuine fingerprint 140, genuine autograph 130, name preferred personality who created genuine fingerprint 840 152 of the preferred personality who created and affixed 15 and genuine autograph 830, and limited edition markings genuine fingerprint 140 and genuine autograph 130, pictorial 820. image 193 of the preferred personality, and limited edition FIG. 9 shows an embodiment comprising base article 900, markings 120. which is a comicbook. Incorporated in base article 900 is FIGS. 2A and 2B show an embodiment comprising base defined and prepared surface 910. Affixed to base article 900 article 200, which is a trading card. Base article 200 has two as integral collectible attractiveness attributes are: genuine sides, obverse side 201 and reverse side 202. Affixed to base fingerprint 940, fingerprint borderline 941, genuine auto article 200 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes graph930, and authentication statement 950 bearing witness are: genuine fingerprint 240, fingerprint borderline 241, signature 960. authentication statement 250 bearing witness signature 260, FIGS. 10A and 10B show an embodiment comprising preferred personality name 252, date 254, geographic loca 25 base article 1000, which is a tangible work of comicbook tion name 256, pictorial image 293 of the preferred person related art. Base article 1000 has two sides, obverse side ality who created genuine fingerprint 240, and limited edi 1001 and reverse side 1002. Affixed to base article 1000 as tion markings 220. integral collectible attractiveness attributes are: genuine FIGS. 3A and 3B show an embodiment comprising base fingerprint 1040, facsimile autograph 1039, authentication article 300, which is a milkcap. Base article 300 has two statement 1050 bearing certifying-person signature 1065, sides, obverse side 301 and reverse side 302. Affixed to base notarial confirmation text 1070 bearing notary public sig article 300 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes nature 1080, hologram 1099, and limited edition markings are: genuine fingerprint 340, name 352 of the preferred 1020. personality who created genuine fingerprint 340, pictorial FIGS. 11A and 11B show an embodiment comprising image 393 of the preferred personality, and limited edition 35 base article 1100, which is a photograph. Base article 1100 markings 320. has two sides, obverse side 1101 and reverse side 1102. FIGS. 4A and 4B show an embodiment comprising base Affixed to base article 1100 as integral collectible attrac article 400, which is a slammer. Base article 400 has two tiveness attributes are: genuine fingerprint 1140, genuine sides, obverse side 401 and reverse side 402. Affixed to base autograph 1130, authentication statement 1150 (including article 400 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes 40 date 1154) bearing witness signature 1160, notarial confir are: genuine fingerprint 440, genuine autograph 430, authen mation text 1170 bearing notary public signature 1180, and tication statement 450 bearing witness signature 460, pictorial image 1193 of the preferred personality who cre notarial confirmation text 470 bearing notary public Signa ated genuine fingerprint 1140 and genuine autograph 1130. ture 480, and pictorial image 493 of the preferred personality 45 FIGS. 12A and 12B show an embodiment comprising who created genuine fingerprint 440 and genuine autograph base article 1200, which is a photograph. Base article 1200 430. has two sides, obverse side 1201 and reverse side 1202. FIGS. 5A and 5B show an embodiment comprising base Incorporated in base article 1200 is defined and prepared article 500, which is a philatelic item (a commemorative surface 1210. Affixed to base article 1200 as integral col envelope). Base article 500 has two sides, obverse side 501 50 lectible attractiveness attributes are: genuine fingerprint and reverse side 502. Incorporated in base article 500 is 1240, genuine autograph 1230, pictorial image 1293 of the defined and prepared surface 510. Affixed to base article 500 preferred personality who created genuine fingerprint 1240 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes are: genuine and genuine autograph 1230, and limited edition markings fingerprint 540, fingerprint borderline 541, genuine auto 1220. graph 530, name 552 of the preferred personality who 55 FIGS. 13A and 13B show an embodiment comprising created genuine fingerprint 540 and genuine autograph 530, base article 1300, which is a collector's plate. Base article pictorial image 593 of the preferred personality, and limited 1300 has two sides, obverse side 1301 and reverse side 1302. edition markings 520. Affixed to base article 1300 as integral collectible attrac FIG. 6 shows an embodiment comprising base article 600, tiveness attributes are: genuine fingerprint 1340, facsimile which is a three-dimensional figurine. Affixed to base article 60 fingerprint 1349, genuine autograph 1330, facsimile auto 600 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes are: genu graph 1339, authentication statement 1350 bearing witness ine fingerprint 640, fingerprint borderline 641, genuine signature 1360, notarial confirmation text 1370 bearing autograph 630, name 652 of the preferred personality who notary public signature 1380, and limited edition markings created genuine fingerprint 640 and autograph 630, and 132O. limited edition markings 620. 65 FIGS. 14A and 14B show an embodiment comprising FIGS. 7A and 7B show an embodiment comprising base base article 1400, which is a non-collector-targeted utilitar article 700, which is a tangible work of fine art (a litho ian item (an index card). Base article 1400 has two sides, 6,082,774 19 20 obverse side 1401 and reverse side 1402. Affixed to base Base article 200 is a nonsports card. A “nonsports card” article 1400 as integral collectible attractiveness attributes is: a kind of trading card encompassing Subject matter are: genuine fingerprint 1440, fingerprint borderline 1441, Substantially not Sports-related, and/or a trading card which genuine autograph 1430, authentication statement 1450 is one card of a plurality of cards comprising a set of trading (including preferred personality name 1452, date 1454, cards including cards Substantially relating to one or more geographic location name 1456, and witneSS Signature topics which are primarily not Sports-centered. Nonsports 1460), notarial confirmation text 1470 bearing notary public signature 1480, and limited edition markings 1420. cards are also known as “topical cards.” FIG. 15 shows an embodiment comprising base article The following are substantially flat items: base article 100 1500, which is an item of sporting equipment (a baseball). of FIGS. 1A and 1B, base article 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B, Affixed to base article 1500 as integral collectible attrac base article 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B, base article 500 of tiveness attributes are: genuine fingerprint 1540, genuine FIGS.5A and 5B, base article 700 of FIGS. 7A and 7B, base autograph 1530, and limited edition markings 1520. article 1000 of FIGS. 10A and 10B, base article 1100 of FIG. 16 shows an embodiment comprising base article FIGS. 11A and 11B, base article 1200 of FIGS. 12A and 1600, an item of sporting equipment (a golf ball). Affixed to 12B, and base article 1400 of FIGS. 14A and 14B. base article 1600 are: genuine fingerprint 1640, and finger 15 During the past Several years there has been an exponen print borderline 1641. Also shown in FIG. 16 is related tial growth in the collecting of Substantially disc-shaped promotional matter in the form of merchandise packaging items known as milkcapS and SlammerS. A trademarked kind 1685, which bears: limited edition promotional indicia 1686, of milkcap is a POGTM. Slammers are generally larger, imitation fingerprint 1687, and preferred personality repre heavier and/or thicker than related milkcaps. In addition to Sentation 1688. the milkcap (exemplified as base article 300 of the embodi The sixteen embodiments described above are intended as ment of FIGS. 3A and 3B) and the slammer (exemplified as illustrative examples and not as exhaustive representations base article 400 of FIGS. 4A and 4B), the scope of this of the Scope of the embodiments of the present invention. invention and its embodiments includes all other kinds of Substantially disc-shaped items that are appropriate for use An embodiment of this invention comprises a base article 25 which is an item Substantially qualifying as one or more of as base articles. the following kinds of items: a pre-existing memorabilia A "non-collector-targeted utilitarian item” is a body of item, a non-collector-targeted utilitarian item, a Sporting tangible material Substantially manufactured with little or no equipment item, a Sports-related item which is collectible, an intentional collectible value and with intent to function in a item intentionally manufactured for use as a base article in non-collector-targeted utilitarian manner. Non-collector an embodiment of this invention, a Substantially three targeted utilitarian items, including plain and ruled 3-by-5- dimensional item which is collectible, a substantially flat inch indeX cards, have been used for decades by movie Stars item which is collectible, a tangible work of art, a collector's and other famous perSons as vehicles on which their auto plate, a lithographic print, an original work of art, an original graphs may be formed and attached for distribution to fans painting, an original drawing, a limited edition work of art, 35 and other autograph-seekers. A non-collector-targeted utili a limited edition collectible ceramic item, a photograph, a tarian item, Such as an index card (exemplified as base black & white photograph, a color photograph, a limited article 1400 of FIGS. 14A and 14B), may serve as the base edition photographic work, a promotional photograph, an article of an embodiment of this invention. item of entertainment memorabilia, a poster which is A Sporting equipment item can be used as the base article collectible, a motion picture lobby card, a motion picture cel, 40 for an embodiment of this invention. A "sporting equipment a trading card, a sheet of trading cards, a hall-of-fame item” is a body of tangible material Substantially manufac memorabilia item, a milkcap, a Slammer, a disc which is tured for use in the playing of a Sport, and/or an item collectible, a philatelic item, a figurine, a bound publication, manufactured So as to Substantially resemble an item for use a first edition book, a comicbook, a comicbook-related work in the playing of a Sport. of art, a fanzine, an animation cel, a pennant, a 3-by-5-inch 45 Two kinds of Sporting equipment items are used as the indeX card, and a collectible political item. base articles in the embodiments of FIGS. 15 and 16. Base A trading card may serve as a base article. A “trading article 1500 is a baseball, a kind of sporting equipment item. card” is a card of the type including Sports and nonsports Base article 1600 is another kind of sporting equipment cards generally defined by the trading card industry as being item, a golf ball. A base article which is another kind of a trading card. A trading card is defined as belonging to a 50 Sporting equipment item can be, for example, a football, a card type Substantially not including telecards, greeting basketball, a Soccer ball, a hockey puck, a tennis ball, a cards, index cards, playing cards, postcards, and the like. baseball bat, a hockey Stick, a tennis racket, a golf club, a Two kinds of trading cards are used as the base articles for baseball cap, a baseball batting helmet, a baseball batting the embodiments of FIGS 1A and 1B and FIGS 2A and 2B. glove, a baseball mitt, a baseball jersey, a baseball uniform, Base article 100 is a sports card. A “sports card” is: a kind 55 a football jersey, a football helmet, a basketball jersey, a of trading card encompassing Subject matter Substantially basketball uniform, a Soccer uniform, a hockey jersey, a relating to a Sport, and/or a trading card which is one card hockey uniform, a hockey helmet, a tennis Shirt, a golf Shirt, of a plurality of cards comprising a set of trading cards a boxing glove, a pair of boxing trunks, a commemorative Substantially relating to one or more Sports. baseball, a commemorative football, a commemorative More particularly, base article 100 is a baseball card. A 60 baseball bat, a commemorative item designed in the form of “baseball card” is: a Sports card encompassing Subject an item generally used in the playing of a Sport, a white matter Substantially relating to the Sport of baseball, and/or panelled football, a white-panelled basketball, an item of a trading card which is one card of a plurality of cards facsimile Sports clothing, an item designed for the playing of comprising a set of trading cards Substantially relating to the a Sport by children, or a like item. sport of baseball. Other sports cards include basketball 65 The term “preferred personality,” as used in this cards, football cards, hockey cards, autoracing-driver cards, application, comprises any person who creates at least one and the like. preferred-personality-created integral collectible attractive 6,082,774 21 22 neSS attribute on a base article in the form of a genuine the collector-targeted memorablia article. The writing device fingerprint or genuine autograph, and/or who is represented used to create a genuine autograph may be a ballpoint pen, on a base article by an integral collectible attractiveness a fountain pen, an indelible marker, or any other writing attribute which is a facsimile reprint of the perSon. A device that a preferred personality can personally use to preferred personality is an individual who is: an active 5 create a genuine autograph. Or the preferred personality may professional athlete, a retired professional athlete, a Sports create and affix a genuine autograph by any other means hall-of-fame member, a notable amateur athlete, a notable appropriate for the creating and affixing of a genuine auto Sports-related personality, an entertainment personality, a graph. mass-media personality, a notable academic personality, a A genuine fingerprint may be formed with or without use notable author, a notable political personality, a heroic of a removable mask. A mask having an aperture of a personality, a public figure, a famous personality, a predetermined shape and predetermined size may be tem comicbook-related personality, an artistic personality, and/or porarily placed on the base article So as to restrict the a like personality. formation of the genuine fingerprint to a predetermined An "integral collectible attractiveness attribute’ is an Surface area of the article Substantially equivalent in shape attribute affixed to a base article So as to enhance the 15 and size to the aperture. ExceSS fingerprint-forming attractiveness of the article to memorabilia collectors and the Substance(s) will be kept off adjacent Surface areas of the like. The one or more integral collectible attractiveness base article by the presence of mask material Surrounding attributes affixed to a respective base article constitute the the predetermined Surface area, preventing the genuine “integral collectible attractiveness attribute set of the fingerprint from having unwanted coverage of parts of the respective memorabilia article. base article where no fingerprinting is desired. A "non-collector-targeted utilitarian marking” is a mark The predetermined shape of the aperture of the mask may ing affixed to an item for a Substantially utilitarian purpose be Substantially Symmetrical or nonsymmetrical. The pre not encompassing any Substantial intent to make the item determined shape of the aperture may symbolize the pro attractive to memorabilia collectors. Non-collector-targeted fession or another life aspect of the preferred personality (for utilitarian markings include, for example: a Signature affixed 25 example, an entertainment personality who is a movie Star to a credit agreement for the utilitarian purpose of obtaining may wish to use a Star-shaped aperture to form his or her credit; a fingerprint placed on a registration card used by a genuine fingerprint) or unrelated to any Such aspect. law enforcement agency for the utilitarian purpose of func FIGS. 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21, illustrate examples of tioning as part of a criminal record data bank System; and a removable masks that may be used to create genuine fin notarized body of text included in a deed or like instrument gerprints of predetermined shapes and sizes with intent to for the utilitarian purpose of facilitating transfer of a real increase the attractiveness of the respective articles to property title. The fingerprints, Signatures and other mark memorabilia collectors. Aperture 1748 of the mask shown in ings of Parliman (U.S. Pat. No. 1,206,362), Efrig (U.S. Pat. FIG. 17 is designed to form a substantially circular-shaped No. 1,322.293), Jones (U.S. Pat. No. 1,374,208), Voght genuine fingerprint. Aperture 1848 of the mask shown in (U.S. Pat. No. 1,380.506), Chadwick et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 35 FIG. 18 is designed to form a substantially heart-shaped 1,483,926), Stoddard (U.S. Pat. No. 1,499,955), and genuine fingerprint. Aperture 1948 of the mask shown in Edwards (U.S. Pat. No. 1,560,047), are examples of non FIG. 19 is designed to form a substantially football-shaped collector-targeted utilitarian markings. genuine fingerprint. Aperture 2048 of the mask shown in An integral collectible attractiveness attribute and a non FIG. 20 is designed to form a substantially baseball-bat collector-targeted utilitarian marking are two clearly differ 40 shaped genuine fingerprint. Aperture 2148 of the mask ent kinds of features, with each kind having a distinct shown in FIG. 20 is designed to form a substantially function or purpose. Star-shaped genuine fingerprint. The method of the present invention comprises affixing at FIG.22 shows removable mask 2247 temporarily in place least one requisite attribute of a preferred personality to a 45 on base article 2200 (a golf ball) just after a preferred base article So as to incorporate this at least one attribute as personality pressed a finger bearing fingerprint-forming Sub at least one Substantially affixed feature and thereby as at stance 2244 through circular-shaped aperture 2248 So as to least one part of the unified body of tangible material form circular-shaped genuine fingerprint 2240. The mask comprising a collector-targeted memorabilia article. This at material between mask edges 224.5 and 2246 prevents least one attribute is intentionally and integrally affixed as an 50 exceSS fingerprinting Substance 2243 from affixing to Sur integral collectible attractiveness attribute means for face areas of base article 2200 where no fingerprinting is enhancing and/or creating attractiveness of the article to desired. memorabilia collectors. Examples of mask-formed Substantially circular-shaped The at least one requisite integral collectible attractive fingerprints include genuine fingerprint 340 of FIG. 3B, neSS attribute may be a genuine fingerprint of the preferred 55 genuine fingerprint 540 of FIG. 5A, genuine fingerprint personality. A genuine fingerprint may be created by the 1040 of FIG. 10A, genuine fingerprint 1140 of FIG. 11A, preferred personality touching one of his or her fingers to a and genuine fingerprint 1600 of FIG. 16. An example of a Surface of the base article and by having ink, dye, pigmented mask-formed Substantially Star-shaped genuine fingerprint is materials, fingerprint-development chemicals and/or other shown as genuine fingerprint 240 of FIG. 2A. An example fingerprint-forming Substances interact with both the finger 60 of a mask-formed Substantially rocket-shaped genuine fin and the Surface during the touching So as to create and affix gerprint is shown as genuine fingerprint 940 of FIG. 9. And the genuine fingerprint. an example of a mask-formed Substantially football-shaped Or the at least one requisite attribute may be a genuine genuine fingerprint is shown as genuine fingerprint 1440 of autograph of the preferred personality created by the pre FIG. 14A. ferred personality using a writing device to transfer ink or a 65 Regardless of the shape and Size of the genuine like Substance So as to form and affix the genuine autograph fingerprint, a borderline Substantially delineating the perim as a part of the unified body of tangible material comprising eter of the genuine fingerprint may be created on the base 6,082,774 23 24 article to more clearly define the bounds of the fingerprint individually or as part of another attribute, include: a name and to give the fingerprint Specifically and the article gen of the preferred personality; the date of the creating and erally a neater appearance. Examples of fingerprint border affixing of a preferred-personality-created integral collect lines include: borderline 241 of FIG. 2A, borderline 541 of ible attractiveness attribute; a name of a geographic location FIG. 5A, borderline 641 of FIG. 6, borderline 841 of FIG. in which the creating and affixing of a preferred-personality 8, borderline 941 of FIG. 9, borderline 1441 of FIG. 14A, created integral collectible attractiveness attribute occurred; and borderline 1641 of FIG. 16. an anti-counterfeiting marking, a hologram; and a facsimile If the preferred personality is handicapped by a writing autograph of the preferred personality. disability preventing ready creating and affixing of a con Another integral collectible attractiveness attribute is an Sistent and legible genuine autograph, the genuine finger attribute comprising organic matter containing genetic infor print Serves as a means for the handwriting-disabled pre mation from the biotic body of a preferred personality (hair, ferred personality to affix conveniently and legibly a major other body tissue, etc.). An organic matter attribute functions kind of preferred-personality-created integral collectible as an attribute means for enhancing attractiveness of an attractiveness attribute to the base article. article to collectors desiring a memorabilia article bearing A simple embodiment within the scope of the method of 15 Such organic matter. An organic matter attribute may be the present invention is formed by a preferred personality affixed to a base article as an individual attribute or as a part creating a genuine fingerprint as the only integral collectible of another integral collectible attractiveness attribute. attractiveness attribute affixed to the base article. Each of the A pictorial image of the preferred personality is another Simplest embodiments having a genuine autograph and integral attribute that may be affixed to a base article to coming within the Scope of this invention includes at least increase attractiveness of the article to memorabilia collec one additional integral collectible attractiveness attribute torS. affixed to the base article within its integral collectible A base article may have a defined and prepared Surface attractiveness Set. area created for affixing at least one preferred-personality The method of the present invention encompasses affixing created integral collectible attractiveness attribute and/or a Statement having authentication wording to a base article 25 other specific integral collectible attractiveness attributes. to authenticate a preferred-personality-created integral col The defined and prepared Surface area may be constructed to lectible attractiveness attribute as a genuine creation of the more readily allow clearer and more permanent affixing of preferred personality. An authentication attribute is inte one or more attributes to the base article with intent to make grally affixed as a part of the article to increase collector the article more attractive to memorabilia collectors. confidence in the genuineness of at least one preferred In accordance with yet further aspects of this invention, personality-created integral collectible attractiveness the memorabilia article may be one of a limited production attribute. Increase in collector confidence is expected to of substantially similar or related memorabilia articles. With increase attractiveness of the article to collectors. Thus, an intent to increase intrinsic attractiveness to collectors, this authentication attribute of the present invention is also an restricted production may be indicated by affixing limited integral collectible attractiveness attribute. The affixing of an 35 edition markings to the base article. Limited edition mark authentication attribute to the base article is not merely ings may consist of numbers, letters, words, Symbols and/or intended to authenticate: the affixing is intended to increase indicia conveying an indication or impression that the attractiveness of the article to memorabilia collectors. involved memorabilia article is a unit of a limited edition Examples of authentication Statements are: authentication 40 production. statement 250 of FIG. 2B, authentication statement 450 of The memorabilia article of this invention may be associ FIG. 4B, authentication statement 750 of FIG. 7B, authen ated with promotional matter (including printed merchan tication statement 850 of FIG. 8, authentication statement dise packaging in which the article is enclosed). The printed 950 of FIG. 9, authentication statement 1050 of FIG. 10A, information may include pictorial representations of the authentication statement 1150 of FIG. 11B, authentication 45 preferred personality, facsimile autographs, facsimile statement 1350 of FIG. 13B, and authentication statement fingerprints, limited edition promotional indicia, and the 1450 of FIG. 14B. like. To further substantiate the credibility of the wording in an FIG. 16 shows memorabilia article 1600 (a golf ball authentication Statement to memorabilia collectors, another bearing genuine fingerprint 1640 and fingerprint borderline kind of textual authentication attribute may be affixed to the 50 1641) and related promotional matter (merchandise pack base article: notarial confirmation text. aging 1685 bearing limited edition indicia 1686, imitation An authentication Statement or notarial confirmation text fingerprint 1687, and preferred personality representation may be directly affixed to a base article by: imprinting,silk 1688). The scope of the present invention includes such Screen printing, rubber-Stamping, photo-offset printing, promotional matter in which a memorabilia article is pack branding, embossing, handwriting, heat-Stamping, 55 aged or with which a memorabilia article is otherwise embroidering, and/or other affixing procedures. Or an asSociated. authentication Statement or notarial confirmation text may first be created on another body of tangible material (such as CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE a piece of paper or cloth) which is later affixed to the base OF THE INVENTION article. 60 The method of the present invention encompasses cre Either separately or as parts of a larger authentication ation of a diversity of collector-targeted memorabilia attribute (an authentication Statement or notarial confirma articles, utilizing different quantitative and qualitative com tion text), a witness signature, a certifying nonwitness binations of integral collectible attractiveness attributes. A Signature and/or a notary public Signature may be affixed to wide diversity of items may be used as base articles. The a base article. 65 method of the present invention allows creation of collector Other integral collectible attractiveness attributes of this targeted memorabilia articles of Superior quality. Among invention that may be affixed to a base article, either these are memorabilia articles bearing combinations of 6,082,774 25 26 preferred-personality-created integral attributes and com affixing notarial confirmation text integrally to Said base prehensively Self-authenticating features not available to article, collectors under the prior art. The present invention makes Said notarial confirmation text including: wording which available collector-targeted memorabilia articles having Substantiates that Said person who certifies to the truth intrinsic trustworthiness and collectible attractiveness 5 of the contents of Said authentication Statement did So unknown to collectors under the prior art. certify in the presence of a notary public. The present invention includes all products of the method 6. The method as claimed in claim 1, said method further of the invention. These products encompass all collectible comprising: articles produced by the method of the invention. creating an additional integral collectible attractiveness While the above description of the present invention attribute which is a genuine autograph of Said preferred contains many specificities, these should not be considered personality, a facsimile fingerprint of Said preferred as limitations on the Scope of the invention but rather as personality, or a facsimile autograph of Said preferred exemplifications of some of the embodiments thereof. Many personality, and other modifications and variations can be made without affixing Said additional integral collectible attractiveness departing from the Scope of the present invention, and all 15 attribute to Said base article. Such modifications and variations are intended to be covered 7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein said by the appended claims. preferred personality is a professional athlete, wherein Said I claim: base article is a photograph depicting Said preferred perSon 1. A method of producing a collector-targeted memora ality wearing Sports clothing, wherein Said photograph bilia article, Said method comprising: includes a defined and prepared Surface area for receiving a Supplying an item for use as a base article; preferred-personality-created integral collectible attractive causing a finger of a preferred personality to interact with neSS attribute, wherein Said additional integral collectible a fingerprint-forming Substance and Said base article So attractiveness attribute is a genuine autograph of Said pre as to create and to affix integrally a genuine fingerprint ferred personality, and wherein the affixing of Said additional on a predetermined Surface area of Said base article; 25 integral collectible attractiveneSS attribute is executed on using masking material to prevent any Substantial amount Said defined and prepared Surface area. of Said fingerprint-forming Substance from affixing 8. A product of the method as claimed in claim 1, said integrally to a Surface portion of Said base article product comprising: Said integally unified body of tangible outside of and adjacent to Said predetermined Surface material in the form of a product which is a collector area, targeted memorabilia article. creating and affixing Said genuine fingerprint as a 9. A method of producing a memorabilia article, Said preferred-personality-created integral collectible method comprising: attractiveness attribute; and Selecting a base article, combining Said genuine fingerprint and Said base article affixing a plurality of integral collectible attractiveness So as to produce an integrally unified body of tangible 35 attributes to Said base article, material in the form of a product which is a collector Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness targeted memorabilia article. attributes including a fingerprint of a preferred 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein Said finger personality, is coated with Said fingerprint-forming Substance, wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness Said masking material comprises a mask having an aperture 40 attributes further including an autograph of Said pre with perimeter edging and a shape which are Substantially ferred personality, dimensionally equal to the perimeter edging and the shape of Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness Said predetermined Surface area, wherein Said mask is attributes further including a name of Said preferred removably placed on Said base article So as to approximately 45 personality, align the perimeter edging of Said predetermined Surface Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness area, and wherein Said finger is moved to touch said prede attributes further including a pictorial image of Said termined Surface area through Said aperture So as to deposit preferred personality, and Said fingerprint-forming Substance on Said predetermined Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness Surface area and So as to create and affix Said genuine 50 attributes further including limited edition markings, fingerprint. thereby unifying integrally said plurality of integral col 3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the shape lectible attractiveness attributes and Said base article of Said aperture Substantially Symbolizes Something associ together as a unified body of tangible material, and ated with a professional life aspect or another life aspect of producing Said unified body of tangible material as a Said preferred personality. 55 product which is a memorabilia article. 4. The method as claimed in claim 1, said method further 10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the comprising: fingerprint of Said preferred personality is a genuine affixing limited edition markings integrally to Said base fingerprint, and wherein the autograph of Said preferred article. personality is a genuine autograph. 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, said method further 60 11. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein said comprising: preferred personality is a professional athlete, and wherein affixing an authentication Statement integrally to Said base Said unified body of tangible material comprises a memo article, rabilia article which is a Sports-related card. Said authentication Statement including: wording to cer 12. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the tify the genuineness of Said genuine fingerprint, and a 65 fingerprint of Said preferred personality is a facsimile Signature of a person who certifies to the truth of the fingerprint, and wherein the autograph of Said preferred contents of Said authentication Statement; and personality is a facsimile autograph. 6,082,774 27 28 13. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein said a milkcap, or a Slammer; and wherein Said integral collect preferred personality is an active professional athlete, ible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a facsimile auto wherein Said limited edition markings comprise the term graph of a preferred personality and a facsimile fingerprint LIMITED EDITION, and wherein said limited edition of the preferred personality. markings comprise numerical indicia identifying Said uni 22. The memorabilia article including at least one integral fied body of tangible material as being a specific number in collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, a Series of memorabilia articles. wherein Said item is a Sports-related card or a nonsports 14. A product of the method as claimed in claim 9, said card, and wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness product comprising: a memorabilia article in the form of attribute Set comprises a facsimile fingerprint of a preferred Said unified body of tangible material. personality and a pictorial image of the preferred personal 15. A memorabilia article including at least one integral ity. collectible attractiveness attribute, Said memorabilia article 23. The memorabilia article including at least one integral comprising: collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, an integrally unified body of tangible material which wherein Said item is a Sports-related card or a nonsports comprises an item, 15 card, and wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness Said item being a Sport-related card, a nonsports card, a attribute Set comprises a genuine autograph of a preferred personality and notarial confirmation text which certifies the milkcap, a Slammer, or a Sports-related ball; and authenticity of Said genuine autograph. an integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set which is 24. The memorabilia article including at least one integral comprised by Said integrally unified body of tangible collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, material, wherein Said item is a milkcap, and wherein Said integral Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set includ collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a fingerprint ing at least one integral collectible attractiveness of a preferred personality, a print-lettered name of the attribute, preferred personality, and a pictorial image of the preferred Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute 25 personality. being a fingerprint of a preferred personality, and/or 25. The memorabilia article including at least one integral Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, attribute being an autograph of a preferred personality wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said and notarial confirmation text. integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a 16. The memorabilia article including at least one integral genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality. collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, 26. The memorabilia article including at least one integral wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a wherein said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality, an autograph of the integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a preferred personality, limited edition markings, and a holo 35 facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality. gram. 27. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 17. The memorabilia article including at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said wherein Said item is a Sports-related card, and wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set consists of a integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a 40 fingerprint of a preferred personality. facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality, a facsimile 28. The memorabilia article including at least one integral autograph of the preferred personality, a pictorial image of collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, the preferred personality, a print-lettered name of the pre wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said ferred personality, and limited edition markings. integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set consists of a 18. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 45 fingerprint of a preferred personality and a print-lettered collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, name of the preferred personality. wherein Said item is a Sports-related card; and wherein Said 29. The memorabilia article including at least one integral integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, fingerprint of a preferred personality, a pictorial image of the wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said preferred personality, limited edition markings, and organic 50 integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a matter containing genetic information from and about the fingerprint of a preferred personality and a print-lettered biotic body of the preferred personality. name of the preferred personality. 19. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 30. The memorabilia article including at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, wherein Said item is a Sports-related card, and wherein Said 55 wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a genuine autograph of a preferred personality, limited edition genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality and a genuine markings, and notarial confirmation text. autograph of the preferred personality. 20. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 31. The memorabilia article including at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, 60 collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, wherein Said item is a Sports-related card, a nonsports card, wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said a milkcap, or a Slammer; and wherein Said integral collect integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a ible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a fingerprint of a facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality and a print preferred personality and limited edition markings. lettered name of the preferred personality. 21. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 65 32. The memorabilia article including at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, wherein Said item is a Sports-related card, a nonsports card, wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said 6,082,774 29 30 integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a an item, and facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality and a fac at least two integral collectible attractiveness attributes, Simile autograph of the preferred personality. Said item being a milkcap, a Slammer, a trading card, a 33. The memorabilia article including at least one integral Sports-related philatelic item, a Sports-related ball, a collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, Sports-related clothing item, a Sports-related figurine, a wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said Sports-related limited edition collectible ceramic item, integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a a color photograph having a pictorial image of a genuine fingerprint and notarial confirmation text. preferred personality wearing a Sports-related uniform, 34. The memorabilia article including at least one integral a memorabilia article enclosed within mechandise collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, 1O packaging which bears limited edition indicia, a wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said comicbook, a comicbook-related figurine, a integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a comicbook-related limited edition collectible ceramic genuine autograph and notarial confirmation text. item, or a comicbook-related philatelic item; 35. The memorabilia article including at least one integral Said at least two integral collectible attractiveness collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, 15 attributes including a fingerprint and an autograph, wherein Said item is a Sports-related ball, and wherein Said Said fingerprint being a fingerprint of a preferred integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a personality, and genuine autograph, limited edition markings, and notarial Said autograph being an autograph of a preferred perSon confirmation text. ality; 36. The memorabilia article including at least one integral wherein Said at least two integral collectible attractiveness collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, attributes and Said item are comprised by a unified body wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set of tangible material which is a collector-targeted comprises a genuine fingerprint of a preferred personality. memorabilia article. 45. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, 37. The memorabilia article including at least one integral wherein Said fingerprint is Substantially of a predetermined collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, 25 Symmetrical shape. wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set 46. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, comprises a facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality. wherein Said fingerprint is Substantially circle-shaped, Sub 38. The memorabilia article including at least one integral Stantially football-shaped, Substantially Star-shaped, Sub collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, Stantially heart-shaped, or Substantially baseball-bat-shaped. wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set comprises a fingerprint and a borderline Substantially delin 47. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, eating the fingerprint. wherein the perimeter of Said fingerprint is Substantially delineated by a borderline. 39. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 48. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, wherein Said fingerprint is a facsimile fingerprint and wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set 35 wherein Said autograph is a facsimile autograph. comprises a genuine fingerprint and notarial confirmation 49. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, teXt. wherein Said item is a color photograph having a pictorial 40. The memorabilia article including at least one integral image of a preferred personality wearing a Sports-related collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, uniform. wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set 40 50. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, comprises a defined and prepared Surface area for affixing at wherein Said item is a trading card, a Slammer, or a Sports least one preferred-personality-created integral collectible related ball. attractiveness attribute, and a genuine fingerprint of a pre 51. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, ferred personality; Said genuine fingerprint being affixed wherein Said item is a memorabilia article enclosed within within Said defined and prepared Surface area. 45 merchandise packaging which bears limited edition indicia. 41. The memorabilia article including at least one integral 52. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, wherein Said at least two integral collectible attractiveness wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set attributes include organic matter having genetic information comprises a genuine fingerprint and an authentication State from and about the biotic body of a preferred personality. ment; Said authentication Statement including wording that 50 authenticates Said genuine fingerprint as an attribute perSon 53. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 44, ally created by a preferred personality. wherein Said item is a trading card, a milkcap, or a Sports related ball; and wherein Said at least two integral collectible 42. The memorabilia article including at least one integral attractiveness attributes additionally include a hologram. collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, 54. A limited edition memorabilia article comprising: wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set 55 includes a fingerprint having a Substantially predetermined a base article, shape, Said fingerprint being a genuine fingerprint of a an integral collectible attractiveneSS attribute which is a preferred personality, and Said Substantially predetermined fingerprint of a preferred personality, and shape Symbolizing Something associated with a professional limited edition markings, life aspect or another life aspect of the preferred personality. 60 Said base article being from the group consisting of 43. The memorabilia article including at least one integral Sporting equipment items, trading cards, milkcaps, collectible attractiveness attribute as claimed in claim 15, Slammers, comicbooks, comicbook-related works of wherein Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set art, and photographs depicting Said preferred perSon includes a fingerprint of a preferred personality, and wherein ality; Said item is enclosed within packaging which bears limited 65 wherein the fingerprint of Said preferred personality and edition indicia and an imitation fingerprint. Said limited edition markings are integrally affixed to 44. A memorabilia article comprising: Said base article, and 6,082,774 31 32 wherein Said base article, the fingerprint of Said preferred 62. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, personality, and Said limited edition markings are com wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness prised by an integrally unified body of tangible mate attributes additionally includes a fingerprint having a shape rial. Substantially resembling the shape of an object related to a 55. The limited edition memorabilia article as claimed in professional life aspect of Said preferred personality. claim 54, wherein the perimeter of the fingerprint of said 63. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, preferred personality is Substantially delineated by a wherein Said pictorial image includes a depiction of Said borderline, wherein the shape of the fingerprint of Said preferred personality wearing a Sports-related uniform; and preferred personality is Substantially Symmetrical, and wherein Said notarial confirmation Statement includes a wherein the shape of the fingerprint of Said preferred per 1O name of Said preferred personality, the date on which Said Sonality Substantially Symbolizes a kind of implement gen autograph was created, a name of the geographic location at erally used in a professional life aspect of Said preferred which Said autograph was created, limited edition markings, personality. and at least two Signatures, said at least two signatures 56. The limited edition memorabilia article as claimed in including a signature of a person who witnessed the creation claim 54, wherein notarial confirmation text is additionally 15 of Said autograph, and Said at least two signatures including comprised by Said integrally unified body of tangible mate a signature of a person who is a notary public. rial. 64. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, 57. The limited edition memorabilia article as claimed in wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness claim 54, wherein Said base article is a Sporting equipment attributes additionally includes limited edition markings and item. a hologram. 58. The limited edition memorabilia article as claimed in 65. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, claim 54, wherein Said base article is a photograph depicting wherein Said notarial confirmation text is affixed to the Said preferred personality, and wherein Said photograph reverse side of Said Substantially flat photograph, Said depicting Said preferred personality includes a color pictorial reverse side of Said Substantially flat photograph being the image of Said preferred personality wearing a Sports-related 25 Side of Said Substantially flat photograph not bearing Said uniform. pictorial image. 59. The limited edition memorabilia article as claimed in 66. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, claim 54, wherein said base article is a substantially flat wherein Said pictorial image coverS Substantially 100 per photograph depicting Said preferred personality, wherein a cent of the Surface area of a Side of Said Substantially flat pictorial image covers more than 80 percent of the Surface photograph. area of one Side of Said base article, wherein an autograph 67. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, of Said preferred personality is additionally comprised by wherein Said pictorial image depicts said preferred perSon Said integrally unified body of tangible material, and ality wearing a professional athletic uniform. wherein notarial confirmation text is additionally comprised 68. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, by Said integrally unified body of tangible material. 35 wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness 60. A memorabilia article comprising: attributes additionally comprises a genuine fingerprint of a Substantially flat photograph, and a plurality of integral Said preferred personality. collectible attractiveness attributes, 69. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, Said Substantially flat photograph being a Substantially wherein Said autograph is affixed to Said pictorial image. two-sided base article, 40 70. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, Said Substantially flat photograph bearing a pictorial wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness image, attributes includes organic matter, Said organic matter con Said pictorial image covering more than 80 percent of the taining genetic information from and about the biotic body Surface area of one Side of Said Substantially flat of Said preferred personality; and wherein Said notarial photograph, and 45 confirmation text comprises wording that authenticates Said Said pictorial image including a depiction of a preferred organic matter. personality; 71. A memorabilia article comprising: Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness a Sports-related base article, and attributes including: an autograph, and notarial confir 50 an integral collectible attractiveness attribute, mation text; Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute being a Said autograph being a genuine autograph created by Said fingerprint of a preferred personality; preferred personality, and Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute being inte Said notarial confirmation text having wording which grally affixed to Said Sports-related base article; authenticates Said autograph; 55 Said Sports-related base article and Said integral collectible Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness attractiveness attribute being integrally comprised by a attributes being integrally affixed to Said Substantially unified body of tangible material, flat photograph, Said unified body of tangible material being a collector and Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveneSS targeted memorabilia article. attributes and Said photograph being an integrally uni 60 72. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, fied body of tangible material which is a collector wherein the shape of Said fingerprint of a preferred perSon targeted memorabilia article. ality is Substantially Symmetrical and Substantially 61. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 60, resembles a ball designed for use in the playing of a Sport. wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness 73. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, attributes additionally includes a fingerprint and a 65 wherein said unified body of tangible material additionally borderline, Said borderline Substantially delineating Said comprises a borderline Substantially delineating the perim fingerprint. eter of Said fingerprint of a preferred personality. 6,082,774 33 34 74. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, attributes additionally includes limited edition markings wherein said unified body of tangible material additionally and/or a hologram. comprises limited edition markings. 84. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 80, 75. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, wherein Said base article is a Sports-related ball. wherein Said unified body of tangible material is enclosed 85. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 80, Within merchandise packaging, said merchandise packaging wherein Said base article is a Sports card, a nonsports card, bearing limited edition indicia. a Slammer, a comicbook, a photograph depicting Said pre 76. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, ferred personality and bearing a hologram, a figurine, or a wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality is a collector's plate. facsimile. 86. A memorabilia article comprising: 77. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, a Substantially three-dimensional base article, and wherein said unified body of tangible material additionally a plurality of integral collectible attractiveness attributes, comprises a Statement, Said Statement including wording Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness that authenticates Said fingerprint of a preferred personality. attributes including: a genuine autograph of a preferred 78. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 77, 15 wherein Said Statement includes a Signature of a witness who personality, and notarial confirmation text authenticat observed the creation of Said fingerprint of a preferred ing the genuine autograph of Said preferred personality; personality. wherein an integrally unified body of tangible material 79. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 71, comprises Said plurality of integral collectible attrac wherein said unified body of tangible material additionally tiveness attributes, and wherein Said integrally unified comprises an autograph of the preferred personality who body of tangible material is a collector-targeted memo created Said fingerprint of a preferred personality. rabilia article. 80. A memorabilia article, said memorabilia article com 87. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, said prising: memorabilia article additionally comprising: a genuine fin 25 gerprint of Said preferred personality, Said plurality of inte an integrally unified body of tangible material including a gral collectible attractiveness attributes additionally includ base article and a plurality of integral collectible attrac ing the genuine fingerprint of Said preferred personality. tiveness attributes, 88. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 87, Said integrally unified body of tangible material being a wherein the genuine fingerprint of Said preferred personality collector-targeted memorabilia article; is of a Substantially predetermined shape Symbolizing a ball Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness used in the playing of a Sport. attributes being integrally affixed to Said base article; 89. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness wherein Said Substantially three-dimensional base article is attributes including a fingerprint, Sports-related. Said fingerprint being a fingerprint of a preferred perSon 35 90. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, ality; wherein Said Substantially three-dimensional base article is Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness a Sports-related ball. attributes additionally including an autograph, 91. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, Said autograph being an autograph of Said preferred wherein Said memorabilia article comprises an integral personality; 40 collectible attractiveneSS attribute including organic matter Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness having genetic information from and about the biotic body attributes additionally including notarial confirmation of Said preferred personality. teXt, 92. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, said Said notarial confirmation text including wording which memorabilia article additionally comprising: a hologram, authenticates Said fingerprint and/or which authenti 45 Said hologram being integrally affixed to Said base article. cates Said autograph. 93. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 92, 81. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 80, wherein Said Substantially three-dimensional base article wherein both Said fingerprint and Said autograph are genu Substantially consists of ceramic material. ine; and wherein the shape of Said fingerprint Substantially 94. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, resembles a circle, a football, a baseball bat, or a Star. 50 wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness 82. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 80, attributes additionally includes a fingerprint having a Sub wherein both Said fingerprint and Said autograph are Stantially Symmetrical shape, Said Substantially Symmetrical genuine, wherein Said fingerprint has a Substantially prede shape Symbolizing Something generally associated with a termined size and a Substantially predetermined shape, professional life aspect of Said preferred personality. wherein a borderline Substantially delineates the perimeter 55 95. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 86, of Said fingerprint, wherein Said fingerprint is located within wherein limited edition markings are affixed to Said Sub a defined and prepared Surface area for affixing at least one Stantially three-dimensional base article, Said limited edition integral collectible attractiveness attribute, wherein Said markings including a number assigned to Said integrally notarial confirmation text authenticates both Said fingerprint unified body of tangible material, and Said limited edition and Said autograph, wherein limited edition markings are 60 markings further including Substantially the total number of included within Said notarial confirmation text, wherein Said items produced in a limited edition production Substantially plurality of integral collectible attractiveness attributes addi consisting of Substantially identical and/or Similar integrally tionally includes a pictorial image of Said preferred unified bodies of tangible material. personality, and wherein Said plurality of integral collectible 96. A memorabilia article comprising: attractiveness attributes additionally includes a hologram. 65 a Sports-related ball, 83. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 80, an integral collectible attractiveness attribute which is an wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness autograph of a preferred personality, and 6,082,774 35 36 an integral collectible attractiveness attribute which is 108. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 107, notarial confirmation text; wherein Said item is a Sports card, and wherein Said plurality Said autograph of a preferred personality being integrally of integral collectible attractiveness attributes additionally affixed to Said Sports-related ball, and includes limited edition markings. Said notarial confirmation Statement being integrally 109. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 105, affixed to said sports-related ball. wherein Said item bears a pictorial image of Said preferred 97. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 96, said personality. memorabilia article additionally comprising: an integral 110. A packaged memorabilia article, Said packaged collectible attractiveness attribute which is a hologram, Said memorabilia article comprising: hologram being integrally affixed to Said Sports-related ball. an item, and 98. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 96, at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute; wherein organic matter containing genetic information from Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute including: an integral collectible attractiveness attribute and about the biotic body of said preferred personality which is a fingerprint, and/or two integral collectible comprises at least part of an integral collectible attractive attractiveness attributes which are an autograph and neSS attribute affixed to Said Sports-related ball; and wherein 15 notarial confirmation text authenticating Said auto limited edition markings are affixed to Said Sports-related graph; ball. Said item and Said at least one integral collectible attrac 99. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 96, said tiveness attribute being integral parts of a unified body memorabilia article additionally comprising: an integral of tangible material; collectible attractiveness attribute which is a fingerprint of a Said unified body of tangible material being enclosed preferred personality, Said fingerprint of a preferred perSon within packaging bearing limited edition indicia. ality being integrally affixed to Said Sports-related ball. 111. The packaged memorabilia article as claimed in 100. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 99, claim 110, wherein said unified body of tangible material wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality is of a comprises limited edition markings which include a Sub Substantially predetermined shape Substantially resembling 25 Stantially unique number assigned to Said unified body of the shape of a Sporting equipment item. tangible material and which include an indicium Substan 101. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 96, said tially indicating a total number of items produced in a memorabilia article additionally comprising: limited edition limited edition production Substantially consisting of Sub markings, Said limited edition markings being integrally Stantially identical and/or similar unified bodies of tangible affixed to said sports-related ball. material; and wherein Said packaging bears limited edition 102. A memorabilia article, said memorabilia article com indicia which include an indicium Substantially indicating prising: Said Substantially unique number assigned to Said unified a trading card, and body of tangible material and which include an indicium at least two integral collectible attractiveness attributes, Substantially indicating a total number of items produced in 35 a limited edition production Substantially consisting of Sub Said at least two integral collectible attractiveness Stantially identical and/or similar unified bodies of tangible attributes including: an autograph of a preferred material. personality, and notarial confirmation text; 112. The packaged memorabilia article as claimed in wherein Said at least two integral collectible attractiveness claim 110, wherein said unified body of tangible material attributes are integral parts of Said trading card. comprises a Sporting equipment item. 103. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 102, 40 113. The packaged memorabilia article as claimed in wherein Said at least two integral collectible attractiveness claim 110, wherein Said item comprises a trading card. attributes further include a fingerprint. 114. The packaged memorabilia article as claimed in 104. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 102, claim 110, wherein said unified body of tangible material wherein Said trading card comprises a pictorial image of a comprises: both a fingerprint and an autograph, a pictorial Sports-related personality. 45 image of a preferred personality, limited edition markings, 105. A memorabilia article, which has a plurality of and a hologram. integral collectible attractiveness attributes, comprising: 115. A memorabilia article comprising: an item, an item which is an integrally unified body of tangible Said item comprising a Sports card, a nonsports card, a 50 material bearing at least three integral collectible attrac milkcap, a Slammer, a figurine, a comicbook, a Sporting tiveness attributes, equipment item which is Substantially comprised of Said at least three integral collectible attractiveness cloth and/or plastic, or a limited edition collectible attributes including: an integral collectible attractive ceramic item; and neSS attribute which is a fingerprint of a preferred a plurality of integral collectible attractiveness attributes, 55 personality, and/or two integral collectible attractive Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness neSS attributes which are an autograph of a preferred attributes including: an autograph of a preferred personality and notarial confirmation text, and personality, and notarial confirmation text; Said at least three integral collectible attractiveness Said item and Said plurality of integral collectible attrac attributes additionally including limited edition mark tiveness attributes being comprised by an integrally 60 ings and a holographic device; unified body of tangible material. wherein Said at least three integral collectible attractive 106. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 105, neSS attributes are integrally affixed as parts of Said wherein Said item is a Sports card. integrally unified body of tangible material, wherein 107. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 105, Said limited edition markings include numerical wherein Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness 65 indicia, and wherein Said integrally unified body of attributes additionally includes a fingerprint of a preferred tangible material is a collector-targeted memorabilia personality. article. 6,082,774 37 38 116. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 115, Said plurality of integral collectible attractiveness wherein Said at least three integral collectible attractiveness attributes comprising: a fingerprint, an autograph, and attributes include a fingerprint of a preferred personality; limited edition markings, wherein the perimeter of Said fingerprint of a preferred Said limited edition markings including indicia which personality is Substantially delineated by a borderline; and Substantially indicate that Said item is a uniquely num wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality is Sub bered item of a limited edition production and which Stantially circle-shaped, Substantially football-shaped, Sub Substantially indicate the total number of items pro Stantially baseball-bat-shaped, Substantially heart-shaped, or duced in Said limited edition production. Substantially Star-shaped. 127. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 126, 117. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 115, wherein Said card is Sports-related, and wherein Said finger wherein Said at least three integral collectible attractiveness print is a fingerprint of a professional athlete. attributes additionally include a pictorial image of Said 128. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 126, preferred personality, and wherein Said limited edition mark wherein Said card bears a pictorial image of a professional ings identify Said item as a uniquely numbered item of a athlete, wherein Said card bears a print-lettered name of Said limited edition production and indicate the total number of 15 professional athlete, wherein Said fingerprint is a fingerprint items produced in a limited edition production. of Said professional athlete and is a facsimile fingerprint, and 118. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 115, wherein Said autograph is an autograph of Said professional wherein Said item is a Sports card. athlete and is a facsimile autograph. 119. A memorabilia article comprising: 129. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 126, an item, wherein Said card is a trading card. Said item being a trading card, a milkcap, a figurine of a 130. A memorabilia article comprising: professional athlete, a Sporting equipment item Sub a base article which is a Sporting equipment item, and Stantially comprised of cloth and/or wood, a Sporting an integral collectible attractiveneSS attribute which is a equipment item Substantially comprised of plastic and/ 25 facsimile fingerprint of a preferred personality; or metal, and/or a Sports-related ball; wherein Said facsimile fingerprint of a preferred perSon a fingerprint of a preferred personality, Said fingerprint of ality is integrally affixed to Said Sporting equipment a preferred personality being an integral collectible item, and attractiveness attribute; and wherein Said facsimile fingerprint of a preferred perSon a name of Said preferred personality; ality and Said Sporting equipment item are comprised wherein Said item, said fingerprint of a preferred by an integrally unified body of tangible material which personality, and Said name, comprise integral parts of a is a collector-targeted memorabilia article. unified body of tangible material, 131. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 132, Said unified body of tangible material being a collector wherein a facsimile autograph of Said preferred personality targeted memorabilia article. 35 is integrally affixed to Said Sporting equipment item. 120. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 119, 132. A memorabilia article comprising: wherein Said unified body of tangible material comprises an a base article, integral collectible attractiveness attribute including organic a defined and prepared Surface area for affixing at least matter that contains genetic information from and about the one integral collectible attractiveness attribute biotic body of said preferred personality. 40 therewithin, and 121. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 119, a fingerprint within Said defined and prepared Surface area wherein said unified body of tangible material additionally for affixing at least one integral collectible attractive comprises an autograph of Said preferred personality. ness attribute therewithin; 122. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 119, wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality is a 45 wherein Said base article, Said defined and prepared genuine fingerprint. Surface area for affixing at least one integral collectible 123. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 119, attractiveness attribute there within, and Said wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality is a fingerprint, are comprised by an integrally unified body facsimile fingerprint. of tangible material. 50 133. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 132, 124. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 119, wherein Said integrally unified body of tangible material wherein Said fingerprint of a preferred personality is a additionally comprises a pictorial image of a preferred facsimile fingerprint, and wherein Said unified body of personality, wherein Said fingerprint is a fingerprint of Said tangible material additionally comprises a facsimile auto preferred personality, and wherein Said integrally unified graph of Said preferred personality. body of tangible material additionally comprises a hologram 125. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 119, 55 wherein said unified body of tangible material additionally and/or limited edition markings. comprises limited edition markings and/or a hologram. 134. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 132, 126. A memorabilia article, Said memorabilia article com wherein the shape of Said fingerprint Substantially Symbol prising: izes a life aspect of Said preferred personality. 135. A memorabilia article, said memorabilia article com an item which is a card, and 60 prising: an integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set, a base article, Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set com an integral collectible attractiveness attribute of a pre prising integral parts of Said item; ferred personality, Said integral collectible attractive Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set includ 65 neSS attribute of a preferred personality being a finger ing a plurality of integral collectible attractiveness print which has a Substantially predetermined shape attributes, and which has a Substantially predetermined size, and 6,082,774 39 40 limited edition markings, 141. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 140, wherein Said base article, Said integral collectible attrac wherein Said base article is a card. tiveness attribute of a preferred personality, and Said 142. A method of producing a memorabilia article, Said limited edition markings, are unified as integral parts of method comprising: an integrally unified body of tangible material which is Selecting an item for use as a base article from the group a collector-targeted memorabilia article. of items consisting of: comicbooks, Sports cards, non 136. A memorabilia article, Said memorabilia article com Sports cards, Sports-related clothing items, and Sports prising: related balls; an integrally unified body of tangible material which creating an integral collectible attractiveness attribute of a includes a base article and at least three integral col preferred personality; lectible attractiveness attributes, affixing Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute of Said base article being Sports-related, and a preferred personality to Said base article; and Said at least three integral collectible attractiveness attributes comprising a fingerprint of a preferred 15 affixing notarial confirmation text to Said base article; personality, a photographic image of Said preferred thereby forming and producing a product which is an personality, and limited edition markings. integrally unified body of tangible material. 137. A memorabilia article comprising: 143. The method of producing a memorabilia article as a base article, claimed in claim 142, Said method further comprising: Said base article being Substantially three-dimensional creating and affixing Said integral collectible attractive and being Sports-related; and neSS attribute of a preferred personality in the form of at least one integral collectible attractiveneSS attribute, an autograph and in the presence of a person who is a Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute witness, and being a fingerprint of a preferred personality, and/or including, in Said notarial confirmation text, wording Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness 25 identifying Said person who is a witness. attribute being an autograph of a preferred personality 144. A product of the method of producing a memorabilia and notarial confirmation text. article as claimed in claim 142, Said product comprising: 138. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 137, Said integrally unified body of tangible material. wherein Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness 145. A memorabilia article, said memorabilia article com attribute includes a genuine fingerprint. prising: 139. A memorabilia article, said memorabilia article com an integrally unified body of tangible material, prising: Said integrally unified body of tangible material including a base article, a base article and at least two integral collectible Said base article comprising an item of Sports-related 35 attractiveness attributes affixed to Said base article, clothing, and wherein the at least two integral collectible attractiveness an integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set, attributes include a fingerprint and a borderline, Said integral collectible attractiveness attribute Set includ Said borderline Substantially delineating the perimeter of ing at least one integral collectible attractiveness Said fingerprint. 40 146. The memorabilia article as claimed in claim 145, attribute, wherein Said integrally unified body of tangible material Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness attribute comprises a trading card, a color photograph, or a Sporting being a fingerprint of a preferred personality, and/or equipment item; wherein the shape of Said fingerprint is a Said at least one integral collectible attractiveness Substantially predetermined shape, wherein Said Substan attribute being an autograph of a preferred personality 45 tially predetermined shape is Substantially Symmetrical; and and notarial confirmation text; wherein Said Substantially predetermined shape Symbolizes Said base article and Said integral collectible attractiveness Something associated with a professional life aspect or attribute Set being comprised by an integrally unified another life aspect of a preferred personality. body of tangible material. 147. The method as claimed in claim 9, said method 140. A memorabilia article comprising: 50 further comprising: a base article, and affixing an authentication Statement to Said base article, a fingerprint, including in Said authentication Statement wording which Said fingerprint having a shape Substantially Symbolizing certifies that Said fingerprint is a genuine fingerprint Something associated with a professional life aspect of personally created by Said preferred personality, and a preferred personality, and 55 including in Said authentication Statement a signature. Said fingerprint being an integral collectible attractiveness attribute. k k k k k