Foil etched cards feature a distinctive textured foil treatment applied to parts of the card rather than the full surface, creating a subtle shimmer that differs from traditional foils. First introduced in Commander Legends, the foil etched process has appeared in sets like Modern Horizons 2, Streets of New Capenna, and various Commander products. These cards are valued differently from both non-foil and traditional foil printings, making correct identification essential for accurate collection tracking. Lotus Scan handles the visual complexity of foil etched surfaces so you can scan them as easily as any standard card.

Why Foil Etched Cards Cards Are Hard to Scan

How Lotus Scan Handles Foil Etched Cards Cards

Tips for Scanning Foil Etched Cards Cards

1. 1Foil etched cards scan best under soft, indirect lighting. Avoid direct overhead lights or desk lamps pointed straight at the card.
2. 2Hold the card flat rather than at an angle. Unlike traditional foils where tilting helps, foil etched cards produce less glare when kept level.
3. 3If scanning a foil etched card in a sleeve, use a matte sleeve rather than a glossy one to reduce double-layer reflections.
4. 4For foil etched cards from Commander Legends, verify the scan result distinguishes between the etched and regular foil printings, as prices can differ significantly.