From a reader: "I have 5 Babe Ruth cards W515 and I have no idea if they are real or if are they another version such as 1997 reprints. I can't find any information on them. Can you assist? I also have a 1985 Michael Jordan card with an autograph Rare Tindmark that seems to be in mint condition. Please text if you need to contact me so we can set up a time to speak."
Hi the Interlake Jordan is a very common fake, and there are a lot of fakes with a fake fascmile auto as well. In fact, here's a copy I found on Pinterest advertising one for sale on Etsy. If you compare the two cards you can see the auto is exactly the same in the same spots an the cards print looks like a copy.
As for the Ruths, the W517 cards also are a target of counterfeiters and you might have realized but each card you have has the same exact centering and borders. This would be enough of a red flag for me...especially since these cards are tough to find so having 5 while not impossible would be incredibly rare.
I have an article detailing more information on fake/reprint W517 cards here: https://allvintagecards.com/w517-strip-card-set/
However, the giveaway is the 'W-517' in the bottom left corner, which is not on the authentic cards. This was done to identify that the set was a reprint and not meant to trick anyone. However, many of these cards have resurfaced with intentional aging, and the 'w-517' cut off the border to make the card appear authentic. I believe these sets were produced released back in 97/98.
hope this helps,
Chris
