Spotting fake sports cards

The most common fakes

• Reprints and re-issues: newly printed copies of old or valuable cards, often with a “Reprint” mark – which sometimes gets removed. Paper, print raster and colour differ from the original.
• Fake slabs: a real card in a fake PSA or BGS holder with an invented grade, or a real slab with the card swapped.
• Trimmed cards: the edges are cut so worn edges look sharp. The card is then slightly smaller than the original.
• Recoloured corners and surfaces: touch-ups that make the condition look better.
• Fake autographs: traced or printed signatures on real cards.

How to check a card

Five checks that are enough in most cases:

• Check the certificate: for graded cards, enter the certificate number on the grading company's website. Do card, grade and photo match?
• Measure the size: standard cards are 63.5 × 88.9 mm. Deviations point to trimming.
• Look at the print: under a loupe, original print shows a fine, regular raster; reprints are often blurry or pixelated.
• Light and feel: chrome cards have a characteristic stiffness and shine; fakes often feel thin or matte.
• Check the seller: reviews from real buyers, a complete description, own photos. Prices far below market value are a warning sign.

What CARDLEAGUE does about it

Sellers verify with ID and bank account. Own photos are mandatory, catalog images are not enough. Every listing can be reported; we review reports promptly and remove listings that break the rules. And because the money only goes to the seller after your confirmation, buyer protection stays with you if you receive a fake.