composite cards embodying the invention include a clear plastic core layer with an embossed metalized pattern formed on top of , or within , the core layer . a selected number n of clear plastic layers are formed on top of the embossed metalized pattern and a like number n of clear plastic buffer layers are formed below the clear plastic core layer . the metalized pattern is centrally located with layers above and below the pattern to protect the pattern and inhibit the unauthorized alteration of the embossed metalized pattern while enabling the embossed metalized pattern to be visible . selected ones of the n clear plastic layers include selected information and a window is formed within the pattern to enable the selected information to be seen .