Michael Jordan Sports Cards Deemed Inauthentic: The Importance of Expert Authentication Services
At DJR Authentication, we recently had the opportunity to examine two iconic Michael Jordan sports cards submitted for online authenticity evaluation. These cards, the 1985 Star Slam Dunk Contest Supers #5 and the 1986-87 Fleer Sticker Insert #8, both encapsulated in Beckett Grading Services cases, were believed to be genuine by their owner. However, after a thorough examination, our experts determined that both cards were, unfortunately, inauthentic.
Why Authentication Matters:
Sports memorabilia, particularly cards featuring legends like Michael Jordan, are highly coveted in the market. With this demand comes a surge in counterfeit cards, making expert authentication services essential for collectors and sellers alike. At DJR Authentication, we apply meticulous research, market analysis, and comparison with known authentic examples to ensure that our clients know exactly what they have in their possession.
1985 Star Slam Dunk Contest Supers #5 Card:
This card, featuring an iconic image of Michael Jordan during the 1985 Slam Dunk Contest, is highly sought after by collectors. However, upon close analysis, several key inconsistencies with the card's print quality, color saturation, and text formation were discovered. The borders, yellow tint, and logo placement were all misaligned with known genuine examples of this card. These discrepancies strongly suggested that the card was likely a reproduction or counterfeit.
1986-87 Fleer Sticker Insert #8 Card:
Similarly, the 1986-87 Fleer Sticker Insert featuring Michael Jordan is one of the most desirable cards in the basketball card market. Our analysis revealed significant irregularities in the card's color vibrancy, print quality, and text clarity, particularly on the back of the card. Authentic examples of this Fleer sticker card exhibit sharpness and precision, both of which were absent in the submitted card. This led to the conclusion that the card was not an original.
The Role of Authentication in Safeguarding Your Collection:
As these examples show, the counterfeit sports card market is extensive, with fake cards often appearing in seemingly legitimate encapsulation cases. Relying on visual assessments or grading case labels alone can lead to significant misjudgments, making professional authentication a critical step for any serious collector or seller.
At DJR Authentication, we provide detailed online authenticity reports, offering expert opinions based on our years of experience in the field. For items submitted online, we recommend a hands-on, in-person evaluation when there are substantial discrepancies, as was the case with these two cards.
Conclusion:
In a market filled with reproductions and counterfeits, authenticity is everything. Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a collection, investing in expert authentication services can save you from costly mistakes. Contact DJR Authentication today for a thorough evaluation of your sports memorabilia and cards, ensuring your collection is as valuable as you believe it to be.
