Method for authenticating signatures and memorabilia kit employing same

Abstract

A system and method for authenticating a signature on an originally signed article employs at least one camera for capturing an image of an individual when actually signing the article. In one embodiment, the image is a real-time video image, and in another embodiment, the image is a still photo. The images associated with the signed article, so that a holder of the article has a mechanism by which to authenticate the signature. Preferably, the signed article has a unique identifier located thereon, and the image is preferably edited to also include that identifier. A memorabilia kit, containing an originally signed article, a storage medium having stored thereon a captured image of an original signing event associated with the article, is also provided. Additionally, a captured image and data indicative of the signed article are stored electronically in association with each other, such as on a storage medium made available to a holder of the signed article, or in a data base which is accessible remotely.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A memorabilia kit comprising: 
 an article bearing an original signature of a selected individual; and    an image of the individual signing said article.    
     
     
         2 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 1   , wherein said image is a real time image.  
     
     
         3 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 1   , wherein said image is placed on a medium, wherein said medium and said article are separate pieces of said kit.  
     
     
         4 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 1   , wherein said article is a storage medium and said image is stored on said storage medium.  
     
     
         5 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 1   , wherein said storage medium further includes an additional recording of said individual involved in an event other than signing of the said article.  
     
     
         6 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 5   , said storage medium further including statistical data indicative of accomplishments of the said individual.  
     
     
         7 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 1   , further comprising a writing utensil.  
     
     
         8 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 7   , wherein said writing utensil is used in the signing of said signed article.  
     
     
         9 . The memorabilia kit as set forth in    claim 1   , wherein said article has identifying indicia thereon, and wherein said indicia is also associated with said image.