Buyer beware: Another non authentic item about to make its way into our hobby compliments of 3rd party authentication?
Heavyweight contender Luis Angel Firpo is a rare signature but what evidence/exemplars were used to certify this one currently up for auction as of 10/30/11.

Item Description

c.1920s. 4.75x7" matte finish photo shows the heavyweight boxer in a business suit with “Firpo” fountain pen signature in clear area at left side. Photo has very faint horizontal crease near center just visible in reflected light and is a bit yellowed with age with faint .5" moisture below center. Corners have tiny bit of wear with a few tiny creases. Image and autograph will mat and frame to Fine appearance. Nicknamed “The Wild Bull Of The Pampas” Firpo began his boxing career in 1917. His most famous fight was September 14th, 1923 when he fought Heavyweight Champion Jack Dempsey for the title and knocked him out of the ring almost winning the championship. Firpo would go on to be knocked out in round two. He was the first Latin American in history to challenge for the title. Upon retiring he had a record of 32 wins and six losses with 26 wins by knockout. A scarce boxing autograph. From the Richard Merkin Collection and comes with JSA LOA.

item in question
item in question


Below are some authentic exemplars of Luis Angel Firpo's signature. Notice how Firpo's autograph remained very consistent over time,  was this even a close miss?


1927
1936

 


1950
1955

 


1958
1959


The letter below states:
"The signature(s) is/are consistent considering a wide range of specific qualities including slant, flow, pen pressure, letter size and formation, and other characteristics typical of our extensive database
 of known exemplars we have examined throughout our hobby and professional careers."

What exemplars are being used to certify this item? Are any exemplars being used to certify this item?
 Wouldn't the aforementioned statement make this item not even close to being authentic?

Do certain clientele of these 3rd party authenticating companies get a free pass?
Does any authority challenge these authenticating companies to see if these are actually "honest mistakes"?
Doesn't this letter put a false value on an item that is close to being worthless?
Current bid: $354.31

This web site will post any supporting evidence that this "authenticator" cares to provide.