AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a standard-sized collector's trading card (approx. 2.5 by 3.5 inches) from the 1991 TSR Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition trading card series. The front features an illustration of a black cat being patted by a wizard's hand adorned in a blue robe with gold crescent moons and stars. The card is framed with a prominent gold border set against a black background. At the top, the 'Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd Edition' logo is printed in light blue and white. The bottom left identifies the card as 'Cat Familiar,' while the bottom right contains the circular gold dragon logo characteristic of the TSR card sets from this era. The card appears to be in overall good condition with some minor surface scuffing visible on the left side of the black border. The corners show slight softening, typical of light handling. The printing quality is consistent with mass-produced lithography of the early 1990s, exhibiting high-contrast colors and a glossy finish. This specific card is part of the first premier set released by TSR to capitalize on the collectible card hobby boom.

I have conducted a visual examination of the 1991 TSR Advanced Dungeons & Dragons Trading Card #328, 'Cat Familiar.' Based on the high-resolution imagery provided, the card exhibits characteristics consistent with an authentic first-series production from the premier 1991 set. The lithographic printing shows the correct color saturation and glossy finish typical of the era. I noted minor surface scuffing on the left black border and slight softening of the corners, which places this specimen in 'Very Good' to 'Excellent' condition (approximately a PSA 5 or 6 equivalent), rather than 'Near Mint.' Market demand for individual commons from this set remains stable but modest, primarily driven by set collectors looking to fill gaps rather than high-stakes investors. Comparables for individual cards in this condition typically range between $1 and $3, whereas factory-sealed packs or complete gold-border sets command higher premiums. The value is limited by the high print volume of the 1991 series compared to the rarer 1992 or 1993 releases. It is important to note that this appraisal is based on digital images alone. A definitive authentication would require an in-person inspection to verify paper stock weight, light transmission, and the absence of modern digital reproduction patterns under 10x magnification. No formal provenance was provided, but the item's low market value makes the risk of sophisticated forgery unlikely.