Hi once again!

Today I will be talking about parallel cards.  The true definition of a parallel card is an alternative print card of a normal set card.  This card is special in some way due to die-cutting it, numbering the card, changing the colour or tinting over the origional card.

Die-Cuts:
The die-cut card has some sort of special design cut out of it.  The shap can almost be anything!  From a simple cut at the top to making the card look like a crown (as in pacific crown royal cards).  The die-cut cards can be some of the nicest cards on the market.

Numbered:
Why is there a number out of /50 on my card?  Why is it out of /1500?  The numbered card is a way of marking the origional card and limiting it.  This way the card only has a set amount in circulation and it increases the value of the parallel.

Colour Shifts:
Colour shifts can be the most interesting type of parallel out there.  There can be a drastic change from the base card to a minor change to the way lettering is done.  For example, you could have a silver background instead of a white background.  Or you could have red stamped lettering instead of the standard white.  Each one of these colour shifts can usually have two or more parallels in a set.  For example Base white then the parallels of bronze, silver, or gold. 

Variation or parallel sets are instant collectibles.  If you manage to put together an entire set of parallel cards it will be worth more then the base set due to rarity.  These cards are harder to find then the base card and usually are more valuable.  Rule of thumb is, if it looks different or is numbered it is usually more expensive then the origional base card!

Happy hunting and I hope to hear from you soon.  Take a look at my shop for all of my parallel/insert cards.

Thanks.

Latsyrhc
Tamarack Collectibles