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Posted By: davidcycleback

Duly note that collectors who specialize in an issue can identify most reprints and counterfeits even if the collectors don't have a microscope or blacklight. If you've been collecting 1971 Topps since you were a kid and have a box of them in your closet, you'll be able to identy 1971 Topps reprints with no trouble. The reprints simply won't look right.

For the collector or dealer, a microscope is used to double check issues you are familiar with and check out issues you aren't as experienced with or have never handled before.

And, of course, collectors also can use good provenance/second opinions, which can include buying from knowledgeable sellers, getting cards checked out by a reputable grader and getting opinions from folks on this board.