Paul; Good question(s). I'll offer you my take on the situation. I believe the generally accepted definition of the term "variation" means anything that is different that was printed on the card by the manufacturer, not the casino. This would eliminate goofy made-up names. However, some collectors prefer to collect blank cards, with no individual's name on them. Some card collectors add cards that have various stickers affixed to cards, such as "Senior" or "Club 55", etc. Some collectors will collect additional cards that have the name embossed in raised letters vs. the same card that has the name applied in black ink on the surface. It's a matter of preference. The major variations collected however, are those that the card manufacturer has printed, including with and without manufacturers logos and names, with and without telephone numbers, with and without signature strip, etc.

Hope this basic explanation is met with general acceptance from other card collectors.

How about it Patti?