Crazy Print-Through

[bmg]

I was amazed when I saw the design from the leader tape printed through on the actual tape itself!
Never saw anything like this:

 

[jamesperrett]

This is very common with the red or green and white stripy leader tape from 40 odd years ago. The oxide sticks to the stripes at the start of the tape if the tape has been stored tails out. Most makes of tapes are susceptible and even careful peeling apart doesn't seem to totally prevent it.

 

[bmg]

This was in the center of the reel.

 

[jamesperrett]

The tape is usually packed tighter at the centre due to the higher tape tension at the hub. As the tape fills the reel, the tension decreases (unless you have a more recent machine with better controlled tension).