SECTION 1.   THE PROBLEM:

Unfortunately, an old (type) but new wrinkle in fraud has recently reared its ugly head. With counterfeiting of money, stamps, photographs, etc. long prolific, the practice of photocopied original documents on original antique blank paper was bound to happen (in volume). The use of digital photocopying techniques and the availability of old, blank paper/stationary has enabled a potentially deadly circumstance involving even the most nominally valued historic documents.

Recently obtained by purchase on eBay were several professed "original" Civil War documents, both being routine army forms widely used for requisitions, reports, returns, and the like. Normally of only nominal value compared to other  more prominent communications from well known personalities, few would suspect that they were, in fact, photocopies. The attraction to these items were signatures of ranking officers, usually company commanders or even the colonel, and their identification with well known war regiments.

What had obviously occurred was the utilization of original documents to transfer photocopied images on to blank antique paper. The images seemed right, and the paper was obviously old. Yet having handled and owned many, many originals, it was readily apparent they were fakes. To add to the difficulty, the seller in this case was a 100% positive feedback, large volume dealer in a variety of antique items. In deference to the seller, who was not a specialist, this person may well have been duped by someone who simply showed up with a large box of old documents for sale and said, "gee! look what I found in the attic." If you don't know what to look for this is entirely possible. Yet noting the seller's other similar multiple listings, there are many documents of questionable authenticity  involved.

Thus the problem remains, how to keep from being a victim!

SECTION 2: WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Without giving away techniques that will only aid anyone perpetrating such fraud, there are a few readily apparent ways to protect yourself by identifying photocopies versus originals. 

1. Closely evaluate the surface of the paper under good light. The photocopies are often flat, opaque in appearance of the writing, whereas originals show more "character" from the ink being inscribed rather than copy pressed on to the paper. Comparison of a known original with a suspected photocopy is often helpful.

2. Look for uneven lines, edge shading (where the original paper size didn't exactly match the size of the old paper being used - even as reduced or adjusted).  Off center or slightly slanted placement is another tip-off, for printed forms were generally straight and show even coloration of lines/writing.

3. Beware of odd-sized, and embossed personal stationary used for military document forms. The U.S. Govt. did not normally use personal stationary for official forms. Some embossed exceptions have been noted, but they are relatively few, mostly being the emblem of a large paper manufacturer, such as the well known Congress mark. Even Confederate forms generally show a standardization, especially in the early years.

4. Evaluate the total context: what the consistency is in the condition/aging of the paper in relation to the condition of the writing (an original will show comparable aging). Look for evidence of aging on fold lines; are the fold lines appropriate for the document or letter (mail vs. docketed form). Be cognizant of who is selling the item - his experience and knowledge.

These are but a few of various techniques that can make a difference in being "taken" versus being a smart buyer.

Good luck, and remember, experience is the best teacher!