Question About a 1985 Michael Jordan Interlake Card

runcc

I picked up one of these cards about 15-20 years ago. I read online that there are counterfeit versions of this card but I couldn't find details about it. Does anyone know what to look for with this oversized card?

I don't have the Orlando Woolridge to compare to either. The card stock seems a little thinner than I'd expect, but I have not seen this card at any shows.

Thanks in advance for any ideas.

mikmouse24

Hey Buddy- apparently the fakes are slightly smaller.
The originals are Exactly 5 x 7 and yes, the card stock is slightly thinner than an actual card. It's more like a post card.
I came across 4 sets of these and sold one set RAW (the set is only Jordan and Woolridge) for about $1500 and have the others at PSA. Yours looks just like mine and is prob legit due to how you got it.

Good luck!

runcc

Thanks. I was just reading your post about finding those cards. I appreciate you taking the time to reach out.

erikthredd

I could be wrong but IIRC there were two types of finish on these cards that were the first sign to check if you had a real one or not. I've never held one in person but from what I've read over the years, the real Interlake cards had more of a matte finish to it and were a full 5"x7".
The counterfeit copies had more of a glossy finish and were slightly smaller in size. I don't know if that means just under 5"x7" but I do know that someone has been selling smaller standard-sized (2.5"x3.5") copies on ebay for years.

The real Interlake cards were made out of thin paper stock that I'm guessing is very similar to how thick the 5X7 Nike Poster Cards are. Those have three levels of different thin stock and I'm guessing the Interlake falls somewhere between what we'd consider normal poster paper (very thin & flimsy) to slightly thicker than an index card.

I did a quick goggle search to try finding a little more info and these links were all i got:
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/381279/1985-interlake-chicago-bulls-michael-jordan
https://www.postwarcards.com/the-1985-interlake-bulls-michael-jordan-card/
https://www.blowoutforums.com/showthread.php?t=1174919

Its still a great early era MJ to own if its legit. This one has been on my top 5 whale wish list for quite some time now.

runcc

It took a while, but I made it my first attempt at getting a card graded. I haven't gotten the card back yet, but it graded a 6 with PSA. The comments about it made me give grading a chance so thanks to those that did so.

FirstBeard

Congrats!

JolleyWrencher

Excellent card to have in a slab in your PC.