If you have cards from the same issue, the reprints should be pretty obvious in multiple ways-- thickness, cardstock, gloss, opacity (see-through effect when the card is held up to a light), etc. In fact, if you handle a lot the cards, reprints will usually be obvious just be the general look.
So, if you're collecting Topps, it would be a good idea to get an assortment of commons from the various years for comparison.
But, in general, old Topps have genuine slightly rough cardboard backs and edges-- dark grey to lighter in color. They put a smooth surface on the front of the cards before printing the fronts of the cards, so the fronts are smoother and a bit glossier than the backs. After you get few Topps from any years, you will see this. Topps cards from the 1950s to 80s are all like this.
Last edited by drcy; 08-18-2019 at 02:26 PM.
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