Protect yourself from counterfeits with these authentication checks
Authentic cards use specific stock weights and coatings. Fake cards often feel thinner, flimsier, or have a different gloss level. Compare suspected fakes to a known authentic card from the same set.
Counterfeiters struggle with perfect centering. Use a ruler to measure border widths. Uneven borders are a red flag. Also check for jagged cut edges — authentic cards have clean, factory-cut edges.
Fake cards often have pixelated or blurry text. Look closely at small print — card numbers, copyright lines, and fine print should be sharp. Fakes may have ink that rubs off with a damp cloth.
Every set uses specific fonts for player names, team names, and card numbers. Counterfeiters frequently get fonts slightly wrong. Compare the suspected card to photos of authentic copies on Card Source Canada or PSA's website.
Every PSA, BGS, and SGC slab has a unique cert number. Enter the number on psacard.com, beckett.com, or sgccard.com to confirm the card matches the grade and description. If the cert number is missing or returns no result, the slab is fake.
The safest way to avoid fakes is to buy from sellers who guarantee authenticity and use real photos. Card Source Canada photographs every card individually and guarantees all cards are authentic.
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