NFC Authentication for Collectables: How It Works and Why You Should Try It

The collectables market has arguably never been bigger than it is currently and, as a result, the market for fraudulent collectables is also at its peak. NFC can provide a perfect solution to navigate a market fraught with counterfeit and inauthentic items.

NFC enables users to accurately and easily authenticate collectables with a simple smartphone tap. By securely embedding NFC tags into garments, trading cards or sports memorabilia, it is a simple but foolproof method for collectors to guarantee the authenticity of their items.

Authentication NFC can be applied to collectables in several ways whether that is embedding them into garments, placing them in a slab or integrating them into the case, there are various options.

What is NFC Authentication?

NFC (Near Field Communication) is the same technology used in contactless payments and hotel key cards. A tiny NFC chip can be discreetly embedded into a collectible, its packaging, a protective case, or a tamper-evident label.

Each chip contains a unique digital identity that can be securely linked to the item. When a collector taps the NFC tag using a compatible smartphone, they can instantly access authentication information, confirming they are holding the genuine article.

Using an “authentication chip” such as NXP's NTAG424, the data on the tag can be encrypted and using AES-128 encryption the tag cannot be cloned or counterfeited acting as sure-fire authentication for any collectables. The chip generates a new unique code on each scan which can be verified by a third-party server.

Unlike printed serial numbers or QR codes, NFC chips provide a seamless tap-to-verify experience that is difficult to duplicate and easy for anyone to use.

How Does NFC Work for Collectables?

1. The Item Is Tagged

An NFC chip is attached to the collectible, incorporated into its packaging, or integrated into a display case or grading slab. Each chip has its own unique identifier.

2. Authentication Data Is Registered

The item's details, including product information, serial number, issue date or ownership records, are securely stored within the authentication platform.

3. Collectors Verify with a Tap

Using any NFC-enabled smartphone, the collector simply taps the item. Within seconds they can view confirmation that the collectible is genuine, along with any additional information the owner chooses to provide.

With these steps you can have fully authenticated collectable items fit for resale markets, fraud prevention and proof of ownership!

The Benefits of NFC Authentication:

There are several benefits to using NFC authentication in collectables:

·        Protection against counterfeit products – very genuine item is linked to a unique NFC chip, making it significantly harder for counterfeiters to imitate authenticated products.

·        Creates trust in resale markets – instant verification creates trust between buyers and sellers.

·        Instant verification with almost all mobile phones – rather than relying on paperwork or certificates, collectors can authenticate seamlessly and instantly with their phone.

Where NFC Authentication Can Be Used?

The flexibility of NFC technology makes it suitable for a wide range of collectibles, including:

• Sports trading cards
• TCG Cards
• Signed football shirts
• Match-worn memorabilia
• Limited edition collectibles
• Comic books
• Collector's editions of games
• Autographed merchandise
• Luxury collectables and artwork

Things to Consider

Like any authentication system, NFC works best when combined with secure processes behind the scenes.

The NFC chip should be difficult to remove without damage, authentication records should be properly managed, and the verification experience should be simple enough for every collector to use without technical knowledge.

The goal isn't to make authentication more complicated, it's to make it almost effortless.

We have also developed an NFC authentication system to help make this process as smooth as possible. Ixkio is a platform designed for authentication and tag management. Ixkio comes equipped with custom domain, redirect and a mobile page builder feature so no matter how you want to authenticate your NFC tags, Ixkio can help.

Seritag can supply a wide range of NTAG424 authentication products, anything from labels / disc tags to garment specified tags. We can provide both the hardware and software for your collectable authentication needs.