It is strongly suspected that fake copies of the clear-glass miniature CD 216-style Whitall Tatum salesman samples have been filtering into our hobby for many years now. A small number of authentic, clear examples were known to exist well before these copies appeared. It can be difficult to identify the authentic samples from the suspected fakes.

Some collectors have studied limited samples, describing minor variations in molding features and textures, and bold versus weak embossing with the A in a circle found on the insulator skirt. I have seen wide variations of these features in suspected fake examples, making identification and verification difficult. I have found that when a portable UV blacklight flashlight is applied, some 216-style examples appear to produce a light yellowish lemonade hue, whereas the known-to-be authentic examples produce a light pinkish hue. This light pinkish hue is also exhibited in the authentic, clear-glass miniature CD 155-style Whitall Tatum salesman samples.

This photo demonstrates the resultant contrast under UV lighting. Based on my study entailing seven random samples, my preliminary suspicions suggest that the left example is authentic, and the right one falls in the suspect category.

I am seeking further input. Since I only have two CD 155 styles, I would like to establish that all known examples emit a pinkish hue under similar blacklight inspections, therefore reinforcing the probability that all authentic CD 216s should produce the pinkish hue, as well.

Please note that a blacklight inspection needs to be performed in total darkness, and your eyes will require 2-5 minutes to adjust to the procedure to see the full color effect. I use a UV flashlight with a 2" multi-LED lens to produce a uniform UV application. Multiple samples, some authentic, some suspect, will aid greatly in making the contrasting results more apparent when performing an analysis.