copyright date is not definitive
As Kevin just mentioned, the players only issued in 1909 (not with the team until then) are seen with 1908 copyrights.
Also, I know of at least one case where a player thought only to be in the 1908 set can be found with a 1907 copyright (name in black lettering on the front). In this case the player bio on the back is also different from the standard 1908 card. This player was acquired by the Tigers in December 1907, and I think you could argue that the 1907 card is a rare but legitimate part of that year's set.
It's a confusing but fun series.
Tim
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