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Old 05-12-2011, 06:43 PM
FrankWakefield FrankWakefield is offline
Frank Wakefield
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Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Franklin KY
Posts: 2,734
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I suggest you buy 3 or 4 real T206s, try to get 2 or 3 different backs. Don't get slabbed cards.

Once they're in hand, then study them. You'll ascertain how they feel. Notice the font style and color for the caption on the front. Look at the difference between the finish of the front of the card and the back. Notice the color of ink used for the ad on the back. Look at that frame around the color on the front. Feel the thickness of the card. If you get a black light, and then illuminate a genuine card, it won't fluoresce, there are no brighteners in that paper for the UV rays to hit; many reprints will fluoresce. Go to some card shows and ask to see some ungraded T206s. I think there are still dealers who have them loose, not in holders.

After you've handled several, seen a bunch, you'll develop a feel for what they're supposed to look like. Then, look at a few reprints at a show, to see what those look like.

You could get a small black light / flash light for about $15.... well worth the purchase price if you're going to be buying old cards.
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