Professional Model Bat Authentication Process


STEP 1: EXAMINATION

Professional Model Bat Examination

Labeling Analysis

  • Determine whether or not the labeling is correct
  • Determine the labeling period
  • Examine wood grain and finish for cracks and alterations

Bat Evaluation

  • Measure the length of the bat
  • Measure the weight of the bat
  • Compare results with recorded ranges for each athlete
  • Assess Game Use Traits

STEP 2: ANTI-COUNTERFEITING

Anti-Counterfeiting

Covert Tagging - Once a bat is deemed genuine, the item is marked with invisible ink which contains a synthetic DNA sequence/combination specific to PSA/DNA. The DNA-laced taggant cannot only be detected in a scientific lab but also with a proprietary infrared laser. In fact, by using the laser, the invisible DNA-ink will glow "GREEN." More importantly, the chances of replicating this exact sequence is 1 in 33 trillion!

Overt Tagging - A label bearing an alphanumeric serial number is applied on the item in a discrete location or on the Letter of Authenticity. The choice is yours. 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.

Letter of Authenticity

Letter of Grading and Authenticity

STEP 3: CERTIFICATION

Letter of Authenticity - A detailed letter on your authenticated piece is composed and issued with your item. The letter features:

  • A high resolution photo of your exact submission
  • A summary on the characteristics of your bat on why it is genuine
  • Personal review and hand signed from John Taube and Vince Malta
  • 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
  • Six digit alphanumeric serial number that matches the tamper evident label

Letter of Grading and Authenticity – Along with the above features, a Letter of Grading and Authenticity also includes the bat's grade based on visible player characteristics, provenance, amount of use and condition.

STEP 4: DOCUMENTATION

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

  1. Description
  2. The item
  3. Brand
  4. Location of authentication
  5. Authentication date
  6. Notes
  7. Photo (if available)
  8. Current owner

Bats that do not meet our requirements and, in our opinion, are of questionable authenticity will receive a "NO PASS" designation. Thereafter, the bat is returned to you.

Occasionally, our experts cannot express an opinion on a bat. These will be designated as "Inconclusive" and a credit voucher will be issued in the full amount of the authentication fee. This voucher can be used towards future submissions.