ink-bleed-and-print-flaws

name	ink-bleed-and-print-flaws
description	Use when distinguishing era-authentic print flaws from restoration ink touch-ups. The line is subtle.

Ink Bleed and Print Flaws

Original print flaws are authentic; ink touch-ups are restoration. Visual cues: ink density, surface texture, UV response.

Authentic print flaws

• Ink dots in flat color areas (era-typical print)
• Color registration shift (layer misalignment)
• Light scratches in laminate (factory)
• Edge chipping (era-typical)

Restoration ink touch-ups

• Smooth ink in raised area (touch-up creates surface texture)
• Color slightly off-shade vs surrounding
• UV fluorescence different from rest of card
• Microscope: brush strokes visible

Acceptable preservation

1. Slight cleaning with cotton swab + distilled water
2. Removal of dust with soft brush
3. Replacement of penny sleeve

Anything beyond that = restoration. Document handling history for high-value cards.

Where this fits in the X3 empire

Sentry tool runs ink-density analysis on uploaded images.