AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a standard-sized collectible trading card (approx. 2.5 x 3.5 inches) featuring a 'Lich' from the Dungeons & Dragons Ravenloft setting. The card is part of the 1991 TSR Advanced Dungeons & Dragons trading card second series. The front design features a black border with the 'Ravenloft Trading Cards' logo at the top and a gold-line frame surrounding the artwork. The illustration is a monochromatic, high-contrast black-and-white ink sketch of an undead lich wearing a jeweled circlet, rendered in a detailed cross-hatching style. A circular dragon/snake logo is present in the bottom right corner, and the name 'Lich' is printed in white text in the bottom left. The card appears to be housed in a protective plastic sleeve or top loader. Visually, the card shows sharp corners and smooth edges, indicating it has been well-preserved. There are no visible creases, surface scratches on the cardboard itself, or significant edge wear (whitening) seen in this view. This specific set was manufactured by TSR, Inc. and is highly sought after by vintage RPG enthusiasts and collectors of gothic horror-themed fantasy art.

I have examined the digital image of the 1991 TSR Ravenloft Series 2 'Lich' card. Based on this visual inspection, the card presents in Near-Mint (NM) to Mint condition. The black borders—notoriously prone to edge wear and 'whitening'—appear crisp. The corners show no sign of blunting, and the monochromatic ink sketch remains vibrant without surface scuffing or UV fading. Authenticity appears consistent with TSR’s 1991 production standards, specifically noting the correct 'Ravenloft' branding and the trademark cross-hatching style typical of early 90s D&D artists. Market conditions for the 1991 TSR sets have seen a steady rise due to '90s nostalgia' and the enduring popularity of the Ravenloft campaign setting. While individual common or uncommon cards typically trade at low price points, high-grade examples of iconic monsters like the Lich attract specific interest from completionist collectors and gothic horror enthusiasts. Comparisons to recent sales of un-graded Series 2 commons find them ranging from $5 to $15; however, this specimen’s superior centering and edge quality push it toward the top of that range. A significant factor impacting value is 'grading potential.' If professional authentication (PSA/BGS) yielded a Gem Mint 10, the value could exceed $100. However, this appraisal is limited by the digital nature of the inspection. I cannot verify paper stock weight, surface texture, or the presence of microscopic 're-inking' used to hide edge wear. A full authentication would require physical examination under 10x magnification to confirm the rosette printing pattern and a light-transparency test to ensure the card is not a modern digital reproduction. Provenance, such as original wax pack wrappers, would further bolster the item's history.