I agree. Your image was messed with a little in photoshop to bring out the contrast. The big thing in what you are talking about is a scan vs a photo. I have a photo background so I always shoot these types of things tilted to the light to show the best contrast and detail.

I shot this Sinaia plaque two ways. One straight on and one tilted to the light. Which is a real representation of the plaque? Which is accurate color? Well....They both are. Which is easier to read? I think the second on is. If you had that plaque in your hand in the casino and wanted to read it, you would tip it to the light, wouldn't you?
We could mess with what's real till the cows come home. It's just too damn cold here in Cincinnati to go out looking for the cows tonight.