The term marked card refers to a deck of cards that has been altered in some manner to indicate its suit and value. These changes can be made by cutting or bending the card, or drilling a tiny hole. The first process of marking cards occurred in the past and involved physically changing the backs of the cards. This trick was used in magic shows and in poker games. However, it is illegal to use this trick in tournaments. Manufacturers mark cards with invisible ink and hidden marking systems on the back of the cards.
There are several ways to mark a poker card, but each requires special tools and expertise. Some marks are visible with the naked eyes, while others can only be seen through a magnifying lens. Inspecting the deck closely is the best way to find out if it is marked. During the examination, check for scratches, discolorations, and any other physical changes. If you notice these changes, the deck may be marked.
You can also detect the markings on a card by looking at its edge. If the edges are rounded or have a slightly lighter shade than the rest of the card, it is likely marked. This type of marking can be difficult to conceal and requires a great deal of practice. You should not only check for card markings but also look at the card to see if it has any unique characteristics.
These identifiers can be seen when other players pick up the cards. These include, among others, sleevewear and stains. While these types of markings aren’t a sign of cheating, they should be corrected by the player in question.
In the past, people tried to change the card’s backs to help them cheat in games or magic shows. This included bending card corners, engravings that looked like Brielle, or even tiny bumps. These tactics are still used in certain circles, but the cards are usually easily spotted by a good dealer.
Block-out marks are one of the easiest ways to mark cards. This technique uses the ink color of the back of the card to color small white areas in the design. This technique is no longer as popular as it once was, but is still used in some tricks. Tinting is another method that uses light inks to create a color difference. This is not quite as practical as blocking out but it is still employed in some magic tricks.