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How to Tell if a Rookie Card Is a Reprint

In the world of sports card collecting, rookie cards are highly sought after. Depending on the player, rookie cards can be worth thousands of dollars. Certain rookie cards are reprinted by the original manufacturer as commemorative cards or authorized reprints; both are meant for the collector's enjoyment and are not advertised as original, although some may attempt to sell reprints as such. Counterfeit cards are a different matter altogether, and are designed to deceive the purchaser. Since rookie cards may be of high value, learning to identify reprints from the original is suggested for all collectors.

Things You'll Need

Magnifying glass

Instructions

- 1
  Identify an authorized rookie card reprint. Search the card for reprint identification, which is normally a seal or a copyright date. Since card manufacturers issue reprints of their famous rookie cards, they identify the card as such. Identification is normally marked on the front of the card.
- 2
  Identify commemorative cards. Commemorative cards usually honor a vintage player, team or era, and may include a version of the rookie card. Commemorative cards are newer-issue cards and are identified with the printing date on the card.
- 3
  Examine the rookie card to spot signs of counterfeiting. Always do this, especially when there are no markings or dates identifying it as a authorized reprint or commemorative card. According to eBay, always compare the card to either a known original, or an original card from the same year. Using a magnifying glass, look for differences between the two, including: text size, image quality, card stock, edge color and gloss. Counterfeit cards are normally distinguishable from the original.

Sports Cards Collecting