Identifying Fake Cards
When buying, selling, or trading Pokémon cards, it’s essential to verify authenticity to avoid counterfeit or misrepresented items. Scammers and uninformed sellers may list fake cards, so knowing how to spot them is crucial.
Fake cards often have blurry text, pixelated images, or incorrect colors.
Genuine Pokémon cards have crisp printing, proper contrast, and clear fonts.
Official Pokémon cards have a specific weight and feel.
Fake cards may feel thinner, glossier, or flimsy.
Try the light test: Hold the card up to a bright light—real cards have a distinct black layer in the middle that prevents excessive light from shining through.
Look closely at the font style and symbol placement.
Fake cards often have slightly different spacing, font sizes, or incorrect set symbols.
Real Pokémon cards have consistent and even borders.
Fake cards often have uneven or miscut edges.
The blue shade on the back of real Pokémon cards has a specific color and gradient.
Fake cards may have a more saturated or faded blue tone.
A. Condition Overstatement
Sellers might claim a card is “Mint” or “Near Mint” when it has scratches, bends, or whitening.
Always request high-resolution images and additional angles.
Some sellers may mislabel cards as first edition or rare variants.
Verify the card’s set symbol and rarity marking before buying.
Some sellers may list custom or reprinted cards as originals.
Custom cards should always be labeled as such.
Use reputable sources when verifying cards (such as official Pokémon databases and TCG resources).
Compare with authentic cards from your collection or a trusted source.
Ask for timestamped photos before purchasing.
Be cautious of bulk sales that contain ‘random’ rare cards, as they may include fakes.
Report suspicious listings to PokéSales if you suspect fraud.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you’re only dealing with genuine cards and avoid disappointment. Always verify before finalizing a deal!