Posted By:
nolemmings (Todd)The m101-5s are often found blank backed- in fact, over the past year, I believe there have been about as many Ebay auctions for blank backed m101-5s as TSN ad backs (same cannot be said for m101-4s).
I'm generally leery of blank backs, because they have been reprinted and are easier to fake if you don't have to worry about the backs. I recall hearing that some Famous & Barr reprints were circulating years back, but have not seen one (fake, that is)personally.
Although others might disagree, I believe that the m101-5 reprints have more noticeable space between the photo and the frame than do the originals. Also, the reprints are thinner--almost translucent-- at least the Fritsch reprints are, and usually are a little whiter, although that can certainly be doctored.
The Johnson card you're considering looks completely legit--nice pick up. Todd