Pokemon Guide Series II : How rare is my Pokemon Card?

By : Fazmina Samat

Welcome back to our Pokemon guide! In the first part of the series, we covered the basics of Pokemon cards. Now, in this second part, we'll dive deeper into what 'Rare Cards' are about, which is crucial for collectors and players alike. After all, the Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) is all about trading, battling and of course collecting rare cards! 

Getting to know Rare Pokemon Card Symbols

The rarity of Pokemon card can be easily identified by a small symbol located next to the car's number, which is usually in the bottom corner. This symbol gives you an instant idea of how common of rare the card is within a set. Here's a quick rundown of what these symbols mean.

• Common cards ⚫ : Look for a black circle. These are the most basic cards, often featuring unevolved Pokemon or Energy cards.  
• Uncommon Cards ♦ : Marked by a black diamond, these include Trainer Cards and a mix of evolved and unevolved Pokemon. 
• Rare Cards ★ : A black star indicates a Rare Card, but within this category, things get more interesting. 

Types of Rare Pokemon Cards

Rare cards aren't just 'rare', they come in several different types, and understanding these can help you gauge the value of your collection. 

Regular Rare Cards 

These are marked with a single black star and have no additional special features. While they're rare, they're the most basic version in the Rare Category. 

Holofoil Rare Cards

Similar to Regular Rare, but with shiny, holographic art that makes the card stand out, Since only a small number of Holofoil cards are made, they're highly sought after by collectors. 

Double Rare Cards

Identified by a double black star, while not the hardest to find, they still hold value. If you have one, protect it in a card sleeve to keep it in mint condition. 

Illustration Rare Cards

These cards, marked with a gold star, feature stunning artwork and are prized by collectors. If you find one, make sure to store it carefully. 

Secret Rare Cards

The rarest type of card in a set. These don't have a specific rarity symbol but are identified by their collection number, which is higher than the total number of cards in the set (for example, card 115/100). These are often some of the most valuable cards. 

Ultra Rare Cards

Recognized by two silver stars, these cards also feature a unique texture, making them stand out from regular rare cards. 

Special Illustration Rare Cards

Marked by two gold stars, these are even harder to find than illustration Rare Cards and are highly prized. 

Hyper Rare Cards

The epitome of rarity, symbolized by three gold stars. These cards have a striking gold glitter finish and a textured design. If you happen to pull a Hyper Rare, Congratulations - It's the rarest of the rare! 

Is my Pokemon Card worth anything?

Now that you know how to identify rare Pokemon Cards, you might be wondering if your card is worth anything. Generally, the rarer the card, the more valuable it is, especially for Secret, Ultra and Hyper Rare cards. However, a few other factors can affect a card's value. 

• Age - Older cards, especially from early sets, can be worth a premium, particularly if they're rare. 
• Condition : This is critical. Cards in mint condition (free of scratches, bends or other damage) are far more valuable. Scratches on the holofoil or wear on the edges can significantly reduce a card's worth. 
• First edition : If you're lucky enough to own a First Edition Pokemon card, it's likely worth more than a regular version. These early releases are often more desirable to collectors.  

Stay sharp, collectors! 

Whether you're collecting or playing, understanding the rarity of Pokemon cards is essential to building a great collection. The more you know about rare cards, the better chances you've got in spotting valuable cards and preserving them. So next time you open up a booster pack, check the rarity symbols and see if you've struck gold!

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