How does one identify Fro-Joy Ruth fakes?

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Posted By: Adam J. Baxter

Recently saw a fro-joy Babe Ruth card on auction. The card was sepia toned with a slightly dirty white border. Look like it was in VG-EX condition, with at least one predominate crease. I know that color versions are reprints. Are there black and white or sepia colored reprints as well? Is there any indicator other then the color that gives away reprint or fake?

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Posted By: jay behrens

If it's sepia, then it's a reprint. The originals are B & W.

Jay

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Posted By: Hankron

The rule of thumb is to stay away from the cards and uncut sheets altogether unless you know what you are doing or know which sellers know what they are doing. I have seen fakes in PSA holders (whether the responsibility belonged PSA, WIWAG or other, I don't know).

The originals were black and white, and reprints are color (colorized appearance), blue and white, and black and white (like the originals). The reprints outnumber the originals many time over.

The originals are photoengravings-- an out of date printing process that is straightforeward to identy for someone expert in print identification.

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Posted By: dan mckee

Actually, you almost need them in your hand to tell the paper quality difference. By a scan and a little doctoring, the fake black and whites look good. If you want to be super safe with a full sheet, find one with the original mailing envelope and label.