Authenticating 1st Gen iPhone Serial Numbers using CT

iPhones as a Collectible

Since the explosive growth of the collectibles market, original sealed iPhones, particularly the 2007 1st generation models, have become a prized asset among collectors. Some examples have sold for over $190,000 at auction, but with high value comes increasing fraud.

A 2024 article by CLLCT uncovered a troubling pattern: many sealed iPhones in seemingly pristine boxes were not what they appeared to be. Some were repackaged using third-party sealing methods; others contained phones that didn’t match the serial number on the retail box. While some companies offer external packaging inspection, weight analysis, and limited imaging, no method until now has been able to verify the internal serial number without opening the box—until X-Ray Authority (that’s us!).

King of Collectibles X-Ray Authentication Netflix Series
iPhone CT Scan Authentications Industrial Inspection X-Ray Authority

X-Raying iPhones

On Netflix’s King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch, Ken Goldin’s team attempted to use X-ray to peek inside a sealed 2007 iPhone. While the approach was groundbreaking for a mainstream audience, the imaging lacked the resolution and 3D clarity to validate the serial number or internal packaging with certainty.

“This is a new collectible,” Goldin Auctions founder and CEO Ken Goldin told cllct. “Goldin uses third-party experts wherever possible to authenticate everything we sell. And if it is brought to our attention that those third-party experts are not qualified to authenticate the item in question, we will stop using them.”

Now, Goldin uses X-Ray Authority. We have introduced a level of authentication never before seen in the collectibles space – industrial computed tomography (CT) scanning capable of detecting laser-etched internal serial numbers through sealed packaging.

This 2D X-ray image confirms there are five items within the sealed box including: iPhone, Stereo Headset with mic, Dock, Dock Connector, and USB Power Adapter

CT Scanning - Unparalleled Internal Access

Unlike traditional X-rays, CT provides 3D volumetric data. It can distinguish between ink, etching, plastic layers, and even micro text inside the phone, down to sub-millimeter features. Here’s how CT authentication works:

  1. Collect high-resolution CT scan data of sealed 1st gen iPhones without damaging the packaging

  2. Locate and visualize the etched serial number on the rear metal case, a detail only visible with sufficient penetration power and image contrast

  3. Cross-reference the serial number with the serial number printed on the box label

  4. Detect if repackaged artifacts are present like altered cable wraps, accessory swaps, or missing adhesives

 

Fraudulent repackaging, whether accidental or malicious, is rendered virtually impossible under CT scrutiny. This means higher market trust, preserved long-term value, and a measurable edge for any seller verified through X-Ray Authority’s Collectibles Registry.

IIC Statement Regarding Collectibles Chain of Custody

IIC STATEMENT REGARDING AUTHENTICATIONS, TRACEABILITY, AND CHAIN OF CUSTODY FOR COLLECTIBLES

Recently, IIC was made aware of instances in which sellers have publicly claimed that their products were authenticated by IIC to contain high-value “hits” without providing a traceable or verifiable authentication report. We consider this a misrepresentation of our process and a risk to buyer confidence and market integrity. IIC issues formal authentication only through documented reports that include a unique identifier tied to a specific CT scan and metadata set. Any claim lacking such traceability should be treated with caution.

IIC is committed to advancing the science of authenticity verification and provenance assurance through the application of high-resolution X-ray and computed tomography (CT) imaging technologies. These non-invasive methods allow for the internal and external examination of high-value collectibles, providing a uniquely tamper-evident digital fingerprint for each item analyzed.

While CT authentication offers unparalleled precision, the integrity of the verified object is only assured while it remains within the secure custody of IIC. Once a product exits our controlled environment, the risk of fraud, substitution, or tampering inherently increases. To mitigate this risk, we strongly recommend that all buyers request a re-authentication immediately prior to any transfer of ownership—ensuring the item moves directly from IIC to the end recipient. This maintains a continuous chain of custody and preserves the validity of the original authentication.

In parallel, IIC is collaborating with industry stakeholders to establish a standardized protocol for serialization and digital recordkeeping. This includes the creation of a secure, publicly accessible library of authenticated CT scans, serving as a verifiable reference point for traceability and provenance validation. Given the technical, legal, and logistical complexities involved, this framework will require time to finalize—but development is underway, and progress is being made in alignment with best practices across forensic imaging, metadata security, and collectibles market compliance.

We encourage collectors, dealers, and institutions to engage with us as we build a more secure and transparent ecosystem for high-value collectibles.

For re-authentication services or to participate in the development of our serialization initiative, please contact our team directly.

SELLER CLAIMING PACK CONTAINS HIT WITHOUT TRACEABILITY DOCUMENTS

Authenticating Fusion Strike Pokemon God Boxes

Authenticating Fusion Strike Pokemon "God" Boxes using CT Scanning

Typically a Fusion Strike Pokemon booster box has 12-14 hits. However, some boxes were produced in error and could contain an additional 9-12 hits. Using industrial CT scanning technology we are able to authenticate these boxes, count the number of hits, and ensure that the cards match the set.

CT Scanning Magic the Gathering Serial Numbers

Using CT Scanning to Authenticate Modern Magic the Gathering Boxes

Verifying contents of high value collectibles is critical for giving collectors peace of mind. While Magic the Gathering is difficult to image, more modern sets can be evaluated to ensure they match prdocut descriptions for metrics like quantity of packs and cards & serial numbers in the right locations.

Hobbyist vs. Competitor vs. IIC Data

WHO DOES IT BETTER?

YOU DECIDE.

After a recent news interview [HERE] we wanted to prove how our service and equipment sets the standard for industrial CT scan authentication services for the collectibles industry. To do so we saved the raw image provided to the news station from a hobbyist. We then purchased a Base Set Machamp, scanned it ourselves, and sent it to a competitor anonymously. The results speak for themselves.

HOBBYIST DATA

Low resolution, poor detail definition (look at the thumb), 20 hour scan (lol)

COMPETITOR DATA

Terrible resolution, moderate definition , 10 minute scan

IIC DATA

High resolution, high definition, 15 minute scan

Authenticating Evolving Skies Booster Box Cases

CT Scanning Evolving Skies Booster Boxes & Cases

For months our team tried to perfect Pokemon Evolving Skies six box cases to no avail. However, recently, we had a breakthrough and are now able to complete individual booster boxes and entire cases.

Below shows what Umbreon looks like within a booster case scan. We can differentiate between Umbreon and Moonbreon by comparing the ears and the slanted, central eye.

These products are often tampered with, and so interested parties have turned to us for authentication services.

FAKE, REPACKED, OR SUSPECT BOXES

This case had the incorrect quantity of packs within several of the six booster boxes.

CT Scanning Modern – Pokemon Prismatic Evolutions

CAN WE CT SCAN
MODERN PRODUCTS?

CT Scanning Modern Prismatic Evolutions ETBs

Every day we are asked if we can scan modern collector cards. The answer is yes, though there are rarely products worth the cost of shipping and evaluation. Due to the hype behind the new Prismatic Evolutions ETB, we wanted to demonstrate what this data looks like.

Prismatic Evolutions ETB - Umbreon Holographic

X-Ray Imaging of Lego Minifigure Pouches – Did we hit Gold?

X-RAY IMAGING OF LEGO
MINIFIGURE POUCHES

DIGITAL X-RAY IMAGING OF LEGO MINIFIGURE POUCHES

LEGO minifigures are typically sealed in small, non-transparent pouches. Some of the rarest minifigures include Mr. Gold, Spiderman, and C-3PO. With how fast digital x-ray and high resolution digital x-ray imaging is, it’s an ideal technology for authenticating and understanding the value of collectibles.

This case studies demonstrates what an x-ray image looks like of a LEGO minifigure pouch.

But do we strike dirt or gold?

CAN YOU ID THE MINIFIGURE FROM THE X-RAY? SCROLL DOWN AFTERWARD.

X-Ray Authentication Services Collectibles Lego Minifigure Series 10 2 X-Ray Authentication Services Collectibles Lego Minifigure Series 10

Initially, our team was also stumped and questioned the authenticity of the product since none of the 16 figures have top hats or diamonds. However, our client reminded us that there is one minifigure that was secretly and randomly inserted into pouches, making them highly sought after by collectors. The Mr. Gold LEGO minifigure is a special, limited-edition figure released by LEGO in 2013 as part of their “Series 10” of collectible minifigures. It is a rare, golden-colored variant of a typical minifigure, with only 5,000 produced worldwide. It is the ultimate “chase” product and highest valued LEGO minifigure. We struck gold.

Goldin & IIC team up for Collectibles Authentications

IIC & Goldin Auctions Team Up
for Collectibles Authentications

IIC provides Letter of Authentication to Goldin Auctions

VISIT THE AUCTION
Goldin X IIC Collectibles Services

Pokémon’s Chinese-language Base Set release is considered one of the rarest language localizations associated with the inaugural expansion. Looking through the lens of the most coveted card in the issue, Charizard’s 1st Edition Rare Holofoil entry, PSA has validated just 192 copies of the Chinese variation, as compared to nearly 14,000 Japanese-language copies (for which no “1st Edition” designation was given), more than 4,700 English-language examples, more than 2,000 German-language specimens, and more than 330 Spanish-language copies. The box’s exterior reflects minor, routine wear from handling and storage and remains securely sealed within the manufacturer’s cellophane wrapping. 

This seldom-encountered booster box comes with a LOA from Industrial Inspection & Consulting LLC. IIC reviewed this specimen for Goldin to verify authenticity and confirm it has not been tampered with. Goldin has no knowledge of the contents or potential card identities. Goldin is proud to take these extra measures to ensure that Pokémon collectors receive a properly reviewed, unadulterated product.

COLLECTIBLES NEWS & UPDATES

Detecting Fake Sealed Nintendo Cartridges

DETECTING FAKE SEALED
NINTENDO GAME CARTRIDGES

DETECTING FAKE SEALED NINTENDO GAME CARTRIDGES

Our client acquired several sealed Pokemon Nintendo cartridges from a storage unit. These products can sell for more than $3,000 on eBay. Because of this, our client sought to ensure what he hoped to sell was authentic using our industrial x-ray & CT authentication services.

Unfortunately, we knew immediately that these were not genuine products. The x-rays showed what appeared to be stacks of cardstock and were missing typical characteristics like circuit boards and batteries.

FAKE SEALED BOXES

REAL CARTRIDGE

RIPPING THE BOXES

To demonstrate the confidence we have in our ability to detect fraudulent products the client opened the sealed boxes at our facility. As expected, the actual contents were not electronic games but were filled with cards (Magic The Gathering.)