I have talked about issues with Panini and autograph authenticity at length in previous posts. Even as recently as 2015 National Treasures, they have used autographs that look close but not similar to player autographs used in other products. On Blowout, a user has brought up a new question surrounding the Russell Wilson autographs from 2012 Contenders, a set that has already had many questionable situations with Robert Griffin III
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Here is a few of the Russell Wilsons I would gather to be authentic based on previous signatures:
2012 Panini Contenders Russell Wilson Rookie Ticket Auto Variation
2012 Panini Contenders Russell Wilson Rookie Ticket Auto BGS 9.5
Here are the ones in question:
2012 Panini Contenders Russell Wilson Rookie Ticket "Auto"
2012 Panini Contenders Russell Wilson Rookie Ticket "Auto"
Now, Wilson has a give up signature to begin with, so you would think it wouldnt be hard to fake. However, the slant, signing direction, letter shape and flow of the questionable versions dont match any known example in the slightest. This was the same thing that occurred with RGIII's problematic examples
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Its also worth mentioning that the Russell Wilson variation has a Panini stated print run of 25, despite 64 graded copies being tallied by Beckett and quite a few more by PSA. Considering its possible that someone cracked open a few cases here and there, and resubmitted, you never know. That would mean the entire run has been pulled, redeemed and graded, which doesnt really make sense.
Clearly something is going on, and it might not be something that Panini is on the hook for. One scenario I could think of was that Panini sent Wilson all the cards, plus some “overs” to ensure that they would have enough for the run, plus a few extra in case of damage or returns.
The overs some how made it into the hands of a guy who decided it was worth his time to crank out some fraudulent autographs, knowing that they sell for a considerable amount. Because the cards are “real” no one is going to question the autographs also being real.
This scenario has basically destroyed the market for the infamous 2007 Topps Rookie Premiere autographs, and its looking like its rearing its ugly head again. I am curious if anyone can get an answer out of Panini, because obviously this doesnt look good.