General Forum

Hi everyone ,

First time poster so I apologize if this was a previous thread. I'm logging my cards into the site, and while some of the 1980s Topps Traded cards, I'm having a hell of a time distinguishing Tiffany vs not (it's a bit easier with Fleer Glossy vs non-glossy). I've Googled around, but haven't found any really good definitive criteria to dissociate them, especially if I don't have both to compare? I know that there's something about asterisks on 1986 Topps Traded but wondering if any of y'all know of any good sources otherwise

Welcome to the Database! I am not 100% sure, but I believe the Tiffany versions have a deep clearcoat on the front, that will look almost wet, where the regular cards will just be regular card fronts similar to the standard set. I don't have any of the Tiffany traded cards in hand but I think I picked that up somewhere.

Yes, the fronts have a very high gloss, while the regulars look, well, regular. Most likely, they are the regulars.

I hate that colloquial term for Topps' premium cards.  White cardstock is another distinguishing feature.

Topps Tiffany has a high gloss front (layered coating very slick like ice), and are printed on white card stock not gray.  The back of the card will be bright with vivid color.  The traded sets typically have a similar white card stock to their Tiffany counterparts, but the Tiffany front is all gloss by comparison as noted above.  The printing quality (focus, photo detail) is better too.  They usually don't have chipping on the edges either (especially with the '86 Topps cards) like the standard cards may show along those black borders for instance.  My main gripe with Tiffany however, is that any white bordering can yellow over time.  That's why I believe the '87 Topps is the best for Tiffany cards, regarding that issue.  Beautiful cards in any available set without the yellowing issue though.  Printed in Ireland.   

"I hate that colloquial term for Topps' premium cards."

Me too. I also don't like the term "glossy".

Plus, Topps actually labeled them "Collectors' Edition" on the set packaging. Why make up a name for something that already has one?

Thanks, everyone! Much appreciated.