Michael Phelps Autograph Prices

You're a collector, you know what happens when someone gets hot by winning an award, prize or even passes on. Their stuff skyrockets on eBay. Everyone wants it and of course the price reflects the new-found passion. The question is -- what will that memorabilia sell for a few months from now or even two-three years down the road? But when an athlete wins eight gold medals in one Olympic and more Olympic medals than anyone else, no one can even guess what's going to happen years from now with autographs, memorabilia and pictures.

Of course eBay has loads of Phelps stuff right now from t-shirts to autographs. He's young, personable and a winner, so only time will tell if he becomes even more popular and more sought after in the collecting field. I just know right now - "Phelps Phans" are paying crazy prices.

If you've become a Phelps Phan, do your homework before buying autographed items. Anyone can sign the Phelps name, just make sure there is authentication behind the signature. Terms like pre-printed autograph, signed reprint are just confusing to would-be collectors -- know what you are buying!

^{(c)Al Bello/Getty Images}

Recent sold prices include:

• Phelps Upper Deck Signature Supremacy signed promotional card 3/10 -- $2550.
• Phelps Fan Game cards - $1500.
• Phelps "possibly used" Swimming Cap - $775.
• Phelps signed Speedo - $566.
• Phelps photograph with "preprinted autograph" - $26.88
• Phelps Autographed 2005 Program - $124.50
• Phelps Autographed 2004 Sports Illustrated - $510.