Autograph collectors, like collectors in so many other hobbies, often collect autographed materials in precise categories. A fan of a particular celebrity might concentrate solely on collecting that star's autographs. Many collectors expand the field a bit and collect, for instance, classic TV stars only, from Lucille Ball to George Burns to Richard Boone. Other collectors refuse to buy an autograph and gather autographs of living beings only—and only through mail requests or in-person encounters.

Other collector themes range far and wide. Some devote their collector energies in seeking autographs exclusively from young female movie stars, aging male comedians, astronauts, politicians currently in office, 1969 World's Champions New York Mets players, jazz musicians, and so on. There's a bounty of autographs out there for collectors to gather, and a variety of ways to acquire them. In many instances, you don't have to pay for autographs. Other autographs can only be secured by parting with a few dollars. It's your call.

In any event, autographs are a stimulating collectible field. Collecting autographs is also one of the best hobbies around to get your children involved in. Have them write fan letters to their favorite TV characters or athletes. Letter writing will improve their communication skills. And for kids, really, there's no greater thrill than getting mail of their own, particularly pictures, perhaps even autographed, for them and them alone.