How to Spot Fake Pokémon Cards (and Avoid Getting Burned)

Counterfeit Pokémon cards have gotten good — but not perfect. A handful of quick checks will catch the vast majority of fakes, even convincing ones.

Six checks that catch most fakes

• Light test: real cards have a thin black layer in the middle; hold one to a bright light and very little should pass through. Fakes often glow.
• Texture and gloss: genuine holos have a distinct linen texture and controlled shine. Fakes are often too glossy or too flat.
• Font and color: compare the font weight, the yellow border shade, and the HP/energy text against a card you know is real.
• Energy symbols and set marks: misshapen energy icons or a missing/incorrect set symbol are dead giveaways.
• Weight and feel: real cards have a consistent stiffness; fakes feel flimsy or oddly thick.
• The rip test (last resort, on a known fake): real cards have that black core layer; fakes are usually solid white inside.

The easiest protection: buy from people who stake their reputation on it

The simplest way to never worry about fakes is to buy from a seller who authenticates and guarantees their product. Every card we pack is genuine Pokémon TCG — sourced and verified before it goes in — and our graded tiers are professionally slabbed, which authenticates the card for you.