How to Spot Altered, Trimmed & Fake Cards
A quick field guide to inspecting trading cards (TCG & sports) with a FlawFinder HoloScope before you buy, sell, or grade.
1. Surface & print under white light
Use true-color white light at magnification to check for print lines, dot patterns, scratches, scuffs, and re-gloss. Reprints and fakes often show the wrong dot/rosette pattern or a too-glossy surface.
2. Trimming & recoloring on the edges
Run the scope along all four edges and corners. Trimmed cards show fuzzy or freshly-cut edges and inconsistent borders; recolored edges show ink bleed or color that doesn’t match the stock.
3. UV light for alterations & security marks
Switch to UV (purple) light. Modern cards and authentication labels often fluoresce in known patterns; alterations, glue, and added gloss show up differently under UV. UV also reveals security/authentication marks on graded slabs.
4. Side / raking light for relief
On the Pro, the side raking light throws shadows across the surface so dents, indentations, and surface waves stand out in 3D.
5. Capture your evidence
Save photos/video to document condition for your records, listings, or grading disputes.
Want one? See the FlawFinder HoloScope Mini and Pro.