vintage-print-quality-norms

name	vintage-print-quality-norms
description	Use when grading or pricing vintage cards. Era-typical print defects are NOT penalized; collectors expect them.

Vintage Print Quality Norms

Pre-1980 print runs ran on lower-tolerance equipment. Era-typical defects (registration shift, ink dots, light scratches) are part of authenticity.

Era-typical defects (not penalized)

1. Registration shift — color layers off-register by 1-2mm
2. Ink dots in backgrounds (especially red and yellow inks)
3. Light surface scratches from packaging
4. Wax stains from gum packaging
5. Cardboard texture variation (paper era variation)
6. Light corner wear (era-typical handling)

Era-atypical defects (penalized)

1. Severe creases
2. Pinholes (often from tack-board displays)
3. Trimmed edges
4. Restored ink or surface
5. Water marks beyond era-typical wax
6. Tape residue

Grader expectations

When graders see era-typical defects on vintage:

• Light wax: lenient
• Ink dot: lenient if minor
• Registration shift: lenient unless 3+ mm
• Corner soft: era-typical, accept at 7-8 grade

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Calibrates the Concierge tool's vintage-specific scoring weights.