I discovered Sporticatures about a year or two ago. I hadn't ever seen them, but I really love those great pictures. I have been watching for them on eBay, but only actually bought 1 of them until now.

I recently found a seller who had a few of them, and he claimed to have multiple copies of each. Most were semi-stars, except for Phil Esposito. There are also people selling Sporticature reprints that are the same size and made of the same paper stock. How can I tell the originals from the reprints?

The reprints listed on eBay right now have been hand signed by the player, in addition to the facsimile auto.

The sporticatures I bought came today and perfect. Obviously, these are just from the 70's so that's not impossible, but I would like to know for sure that these were original.

Are these still easy to find in great shape? Is there any way to tell?

Earl

The reprints on ebay are directly from Bob Pelkowski and are hand numbered, so this is the decieding factor as to their authenticity.

As for others, I know of the person you are talking about with a large group, I think he picked them up from a jobber way back when, so top condition is possible.

Many are found in nice condition but due to their size, they usually do have some defects.

Hope this answers some questions.

Bobby

Bobby,

It's great having access to the Encyclopedia of Hockey Cards!

Thanks for the info--I'm really happy to have these in such great condition. Looks like they are genuine!

Earl

For what it is worth Earl, to reprint these on 11 x 14 thick card stock in colour wouldn't be worth the hassle, so I know of no reprints from this issue.
Now go crazy and buy 'em up.

Here's a few I have of the photos...plus some others stuff. They were so well done, I love them.