How to know if an unsigned card is a reprint?

[Case12]

This has probably been asked 100 times. I am usually in the autograph board. But I'm trying to build some card collections for fun....no slabbing, just old used cards. Cards are usually pretty cheap. Here's the rub - I want a card that is not a reprint, even if a kid used it in his bicycle spokes. Example: I want a Joe Morgan rookie card. Inexpensive card. And some eBay sellers are fair and state RP. But if the seller does not say, and it's not marked on the back of the card, are there other hints? "Looks old" doesn't mean much to me. I can put a reprint in my jeans pocket and run it through the washer and dryer and it looks old. Looking for sage advice please??

[swarmee]

Easiest answer is to buy some commons from the same set, and touch them. The fronts and backs feel different because of gloss or card stock. The printing will be slightly different. Old cards may smell old. Creases through the card have the same gray cardstock as the back.

[drcy]

If you have cards from the same issue, the reprints should be pretty obvious in multiple ways-- thickness, cardstock, gloss, opacity (see-through effect when the card is held up to a light), etc. In fact, if you handle a lot the cards, reprints will usually be obvious just be the general look.

So, if you're collecting Topps, it would be a good idea to get an assortment of commons from the various years for comparison.

But, in general, old Topps have genuine slightly rough cardboard backs and edges-- dark grey to lighter in color. They put a smooth surface on the front of the cards before printing the fronts of the cards, so the fronts are smoother and a bit glossier than the backs. After you get few Topps from any years, you will see this. Topps cards from the 1950s to 80s are all like this.

[Case12]

Thanks. That's some good info. But if I am buying singles off eBay, it sounds like hit or miss. I wish reprints required dating footnotes. I have seen some 60's Topps reprints that do show reprint date from the 90's in little font at bottom of back. Most don't show anything

[Case12]

To your point though, I can buy it. Check it with my own original types from my own collection, and request a refund if it seems out of whack. Sounds like a good plan....

[swarmee]

Or you can shop from highly respectable companies and eBay sellers. There are also many on this board. But yes, if the card is a reprint, you can send it back within the window.
Personally, I buy a bunch from www.comc.com and it saves on shipping since you can leave your cards in your warehouse and send them all to you at once.

[Leon]

Originally Posted by Case12

To your point though, I can buy it. Check it with my own original types from my own collection, and request a refund if it seems out of whack. Sounds like a good plan....

Buy from reputable sellers and handle a lot of cards. As others said, you will get to know them. However, there are tons of great fakes so always be careful and know your trading partner (where possible). Buy from any of our advertisers and all should be good.