The Pokemon card market is booming, and with high demand comes one unfortunate reality: fake cards. Whether you’re a serious collector or just starting your journey, knowing how to spot counterfeit cards is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify fake Pokemon cards, so you can protect your collection and buy with confidence. Shop authentic Pokemon cards here.
Why Authenticity Matters When Collecting Pokemon Cards
Authentic Pokemon cards aren’t just valuable—they’re the gateway into the heart of the hobby. Genuine cards hold long-term value, come with reliable printing quality, and most importantly, give collectors a sense of connection to the game and its characters.
Fake cards, on the other hand diminish that excitement. They offer no collectable value and leave collectors feeling scammed and disappointed. Learning to spot the difference helps ensure your collection is legitimate and fun!
The Common Features of Fake Pokemon Cards
Counterfeit cards often give themselves away if you know what to look for:
-
Incorrect fonts and colouring – Fonts may be off, or colours might look dull or oversaturated like the image below (credit: Jason Koeppel, ONE37pm).
-
Inconsistent or poor-quality artwork – The monster images may look fuzzy or wrong.
-
Unrealistic rarity – There are only so many 1st Edition Charizards in existence. Finding dozens for sale is a red flag.
-
Lack of proper holographic finish – Especially on rare or holo cards. Fakes skip this or do it poorly.
-
Wrong texture and weight – Fake cards may feel too flimsy, glossy, or papery.
The $3.5 Million Fake Box: Logan Paul's Costly Mistake
In one of the most high-profile Pokemon card authenticity fails, YouTuber and influencer Logan Paul made headlines in 2022 when he purchased what he believed to be a sealed case of 1st Edition Base Set Booster Boxes for $3.5 million USD.
Excitement quickly turned to suspicion when collectors noticed inconsistencies in the packaging. After further investigation, Paul opened the case—only to discover it was filled with G.I. Joe trading cards. The sealed boxes were expertly resealed fakes, duping even the professionals involved in the transaction.
The story serves as a cautionary tale: even the biggest names in the hobby can be fooled, and authentication is essential—no matter how legitimate something may seem.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Identify Fake Pokemon Cards
Step 1: Check the Card’s Weight and Feel
Fake cards often feel flimsier or overly glossy. Authentic cards have a sturdy, premium texture and consistent thickness. If it feels “off,” trust your instincts.
Step 2: Inspect the Holographic Pattern
Real holo cards have vibrant, layered patterns that change under light. Fake cards often have dull, printed-on holo effects. Test under good lighting to see the difference.
Step 3: Examine the Printing Quality
Look closely—authentic cards have crisp, high-resolution printing. If the text is blurry or the image pixelated, it’s likely a fake.
Step 4: Look at the Edges and Corners
Genuine cards have smooth, evenly cut edges and rounded corners. Fake cards may have jagged edges or strange layering when viewed from the side.
Step 5: Check the Card's Alignment and Borders
Compare front and back—off-center borders or inconsistent alignment can be red flags.
How Online Resources Can Help You Decide
Before you make a purchase, check trusted websites like the official Pokemon TCG site, card databases, or seller marketplaces that offer image verification. Compare your card with clear, confirmed examples from reputable platforms.
Collector communities and forums are also great for crowd-sourced expertise—don’t be afraid to ask for help!
What to Do If You Suspect Your Pokemon Cards Are Fake
Think you’ve got a fake on your hands? Here’s what to do:
-
Reach out to a trusted card store or professional for verification.
-
Avoid reselling cards you think are fake—it's harmful to the community and can damage your reputation.
How to Avoid Fake Pokemon Cards in the Future
Protect yourself with these key tips:
-
Only buy from trusted sellers like Cherry.
-
Ask for extra photos, including close-ups of text and edges.
-
Familiarise yourself with the feel, weight, and print style of real cards.
-
Educate yourself with helpful resources like our Pokemon collecting guide.
Shop Authentic Pokemon Cards with Cherry Collectables
Whether you’re after sealed products or single cards, Cherry has you covered with 100% authentic Pokemon cards. Explore the latest drops and rare singles today:
