Authentication Process

To combat counterfeiting and provide peace of mind to collectors, PSA/DNA employs a three-level Authentication System. The process includes:

STEP 1: ANTI-COUNTERFEITING

Covert Tagging - Once the photograph is authenticated by one or more PSA/DNA experts, the item is marked with invisible ink which contains a synthetic DNA sequence/combination specific to PSA/DNA.

The DNA-laced taggant can only be detected in a scientific lab or with a proprietary infrared laser. In fact, by using the laser, the invisible DNA-ink will glow "GREEN." More importantly, the chance of replicating this exact sequence is 1 in 33 trillion!

Overt Tagging - A label bearing an alphanumeric serial number is applied on the back of the item in a discrete location away form any inscription, notes or stampings. Interestingly enough, this label was specifically designed to checkerboard when tampered with and can be completely removed! In addition, the label is non-destructive and does not harm your valuable item.

STEP 2: Encapsulation (NEW) Encapsulation service, is now included in the PSA/DNA Photo authentication fee. All photos submitted for authentication will now be encapsulated in our tamper evident photo holder. A Letter of Authenticity will also be included with any item with an authentication fee of $50 or more. A Letter of Authenticity can be purchased for $10 for items with an authentication fee of less than $50.

STEP 3: CERTIFICATION

Letter of Authenticity - A detailed letter on your authenticated piece is composed and issued with your item with an authentication fee of $50 or more. The letter features:

• PSA and PSA/DNA watermarks custom embedded into the paper stock to prevent counterfeiting; simply hold the LOA against a lamp and look for the official PSA and PSA/DNA logos.
• A high resolution photo of your encapsulated item.
• Hand signature from one of PSA/DNA's representatives.
• Six digit alphanumeric serial number that matches the tamper evident label.
• A report of the expert's findings.

STEP 4: DOCUMENTATION

All authenticated memorabilia is available online for verification. Simply visit Cert Verification and enter the 6-digit alphanumeric serial number.
The verification page will display:

Photographs that do not meet our requirements in our opinion, and are of questionable authenticity will receive a "NO PASS" designation. Thereafter, a Letter of Opinion (LOO) is returned with an explanation of our experts' findings.

Provided that the photograph is genuine, our experts will issue a Type I-IV Classification on your photograph based on its characteristics.

The PSA/DNA photograph classification standards:

Type Classifications: