I have been a collector of Transformers for many years and although I will never claim to be an expert, I can however share with you my experiences.

The worst issue I have is the Numerous sellers of Fake/Reissue Optimus Primes that are supposedly Mint In Box (MIB).

Beware people, I am seeing collectors pay between $100-$350 for these so called Original Optimus Primes!  As a collector I think these are worthless!  What value can you give an item that is being sold today that is an imitation?  Really you should be able to get one of these for around $50-75 topps.

To Identify these fakes:

1.  Easiest way is on the back of the box the art has ravage at the top of the box, the original box shows the full picture, the fake has his head cut off.  (Ravage is the black panther decepticon cassette).

2.  Optimus prime cab stickers, the original has the silver cab stickers already on it.  The fake does not have them.

3.  No tape, the reissue usally does not have tape on either side of the box.

I hope this helps and if you want originals, save me as a favorite as I sell transformers all the time.