Marking System and Method and Scratch-Off Game Card Incorporating Same

摘要

A game card incorporates a marking system having one or more layers of varnish or rubber-based material that is removable when applied to a substrate and one or more overlying screens comprising a pattern of opaque ink elements printed on the removable layer or layers such that the ink elements are blended into smooth tones when viewed by the human eye. An optional underlying screen provides another pattern of opaque ink elements underneath the removable layer. The marking system and method of the present invention permit a wide range of combinations of designs and security measures, while ensuring that indicia printed on the game card are visible so that players can scratch or otherwise remove the removable layer and at least a portion of the overlying screen as a way of marking the underlying indicia. Whether the underlying screen is employed or not, once the removable layer is removed, the underlying indicia on the game card is surrounded by a background that is visibly distinct from the color viewed when the removable layer is in place and has not been removed.