thoughts on this frank thomas card

[sbfinley]

Link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Frank-Thomas...p2047675.l2557

The card is 100% not a real NNOF. The card is either an altered correct version or a reprint. The easiest give away (and I can't believe anyone would spend $1300 on this card an not know it) is the complete black border around the frame of the card. The cause of the true NNOF version was something (likely rogue cardboard or paper) blocking the printing press. The obstruction actually affected 8-10 cards in total - although most prominently Thomas's name. Here is a link to a true Frank Thomas NNOF and note not only his name, but the broken black border surrounding the name box and the image on the card: http://www.ebay.com/itm/1990-Topps-F...cAAOSwTapV4O9c

What we have here is a combination of opportunity (the fact blue flips express nothing in terms of the card's authenticity) and lack of education. The winner got taken. It's a cool novelty and I'd actually like to have one, but for about $1270 less than that closing price.