An orange Sneijder nameset shirt with a handwritten 'Voor Walkouts.com' dedication signed beside it, for the dedicated proof feature.

Dedicated

Dedicated Signed Football Shirts: A Collector's Guide

Sometimes a player writes a short message next to the signature. It can be general, such as Sergio Agüero's "Premier League Champs!", or personal, such as "For Judy". That message is a dedication, and a shirt that carries one is a dedicated shirt.

What is a dedicated football shirt?

A dedicated football shirt carries a short handwritten message from the player alongside the signature. The message can be general, such as "Best wishes", tied to a moment, such as a title or a milestone, or personal, naming the person the shirt was signed for.

Types of dedication

  1. Event or milestone: names a title, a match or a career moment, such as "Champions League Winners" or "Final Match".
  2. General: a greeting or short phrase that any collector can share, such as "Best wishes".
  3. Personal: names one person, such as "For Michael". It means most to someone who shares that name or connection.

What to check on a dedicated shirt

  1. Legibility and placement: the message should be clear and sit with the signature, readable when the shirt is displayed.
  2. Authentication of the whole inscription: the certificate should cover the dedication as well as the signature. Authenticators such as Beckett, PSA/DNA and JSA often certify inscribed items.
  3. Proof of the signing: a photo or video of the moment ties the message to the player writing it.

Caring for a dedicated shirt

  • Frame behind UV-protective glazing: it slows fading of the ink and keeps out dust.
  • Use acid-free materials: acid-free mounting and backing help preserve both the dedication and the signature.
  • Keep the paperwork with the shirt: store the certificate and any proof of signing together with it.
  • Handle it as little as possible: when you do, wear gloves so skin oils do not reach the ink.