The six things a certificate must state
Weak certificates are vague on purpose. A useful one is specific enough to be checked.
- The exact item described, including size and framing
- Every signature present, named in full
- The issuing business name and trading address
- A named individual signing on the company's behalf
- The scope and duration of the guarantee
- A reference number tying the certificate to that single piece
Why lifetime matters more than the wording
A 30-day guarantee is close to meaningless, because doubts about authenticity usually surface years later — often when a collector comes to sell or insure a piece. Our guarantee runs for as long as you own the item, which is the only period that is actually useful to you.
Certificates and resale
When you sell, the certificate travels with the piece. Buyers discount heavily for missing paperwork, so keep the certificate flat, dry and with the item, and photograph it for your own records. If you insure the collection, your insurer will usually want the certificate alongside the purchase receipt.
Need a straight answer on a specific piece?
Send photographs and we'll give you an honest opinion — whether you're buying, selling or simply curious. You can also visit us at 87 Princes Street, Southend-on-Sea, Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm.