How to spot a trimmed card? An example?

[bnorth]

Get a Carson MM-200 60-100X top lighted microscope. Then look at the edges and the trimmed edge(s) will stick out like a sore thumb.

[Aquarian Sports Cards]

Also in the case of this particular card it should be fairly easy to research it and see if you can find a larger version with a matching "fingerprint"

[GasHouseGang]

Originally Posted by bnorth

Get a Carson MM-200 60-100X top lighted microscope. Then look at the edges and the trimmed edge(s) will stick out like a sore thumb.

I would love to see an actual example (picture) of what to look for. I'm assuming for some issues it's obvious, but for others it isn't. I doubt if PSA even owns a microscope.

[bnorth]

Originally Posted by GasHouseGang

I would love to see an actual example (picture) of what to look for. I'm assuming for some issues it's obvious, but for others it isn't. I doubt if PSA even owns a microscope.

The microscope I recommended is about the size of a cigarette lighter so it is very easy to use.

Just look at a known good card and then look at the one in question. If it has been trimmed you will know it. Can't really explain what to look for because there are so many different ways to trim a card. Each one looks different than a factory cut.

[GasHouseGang]

Originally Posted by bnorth

The microscope I recommended is about the size of a cigarette lighter so it is very easy to use.

Just look at a known good card and then look at the one in question. If it has been trimmed you will know it. Can't really explain what to look for because there are so many different ways to trim a card. Each one looks different than a factory cut.

You know what, I think I'll give it a try. They are so cheap that there's no excuse not to.

[Billy5858]

Originally Posted by GasHouseGang

You know what, I think I'll give it a try. They are so cheap that there's no excuse not to.

+1

[bxb]

Somebody should make a you-tube video of this subject, the knowledge is so visual.

I think I'm not alone in having trouble distinguishing minor factory miscuts from expert trimmers on the older cards.

It could be part of the required training for new TPG company graders (assuming it isn't already).