Schapira 1921 Ruth cards

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Posted By: Goudey Guy

As I haven't ever owned one of these cards, I have often questioned whether of not most of the ones I see on Ebay are real or not. There is one currently offered, Ebay auction #1863240712. I am not questioning this buyers honesty, but this card looks too nice to me to be authentic. It seems that many of the Schapira's that are offered are in superb condition. Just looking for opinions on reprint problems with this issue, and possibly how to identify real from fake.

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Posted By: David

I've seen the cards in a variety of conditions, low to high. I owned one (portrait) and it was Near Mint. They aren't large, which may explain why some are still in high grade. It's more than likely that a counterfeit would in low grade, intentionally aged .... Though it's always possible with computer printers these days, I've not seen a reprint or counterfeit.

In person the text will be completely solid, while a reprint will have a tiny dot pattern. Without having one in person, my guess is that the dark lines in Ruth's face are solid, as well as the dark red background ... Also, it is printed on cardboard stock, which I beleive (someone correct me if I'm wrong) has a dark gray back.

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Posted By: David

Also, don't let the Froy Joy Ruths color your judgement. The Fro Joys is a one-of-a-kind horror story. An aberation that shouldn't taint other issues.

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Posted By: David

Lastly, I'm no longer sure of the color of the Schapira back (I owned the card six years ago), and will let someone else answer that. I'm sure a number of board memebers owned or own one of the card and can give an answer.