Jun 19, 2025

Can Pokémon Cards Be Fake? How to Spot a Fake Pokémon Card in 2025

Can Pokémon Cards Be Fake? How to Spot a Fake Pokémon Card in 2025

Unfortunately, yes—Pokémon cards can absolutely be fake, and counterfeit cards are still a major issue in 2025. With the rising value of rare cards and sealed products, scammers are more motivated than ever to create fakes that fool casual buyers, especially online.

Whether you’re a collector, parent, or reseller in Ireland, knowing how to identify fake Pokémon cards is essential. This guide will help you spot counterfeit cards quickly and safely.

1. Check the Card Back

The back of a real Pokémon card is dark blue with a clean Poké Ball image in the centre. Watch for:

Washed-out or overly saturated colours
Blurry Poké Ball or fuzzy print
Different font weight or spacing

Compare it to a known genuine card if you’re unsure.

2. Inspect the Print Quality

Genuine cards have very high-resolution print and fine detail. Fakes often have:

Grainy or pixelated text
Colour bleeding
Low-quality foil or overly shiny holo areas

Real cards from modern sets also use specific texture patterns. If it looks or feels off, it probably is.

3. Test the Card Stock

Real Pokémon cards have a specific weight and feel. They should be:

Smooth but firm
Slightly flexible, not flimsy
Not too thick or too thin

You can also try the light test: Hold the card up to a light. Real cards are not transparent. If you can see through it, it’s likely fake.

4. Look for Set and Rarity Symbols

Fake cards often have:

Missing or incorrect set symbols
Wrong rarity icons (e.g. star on a common card)
Nonexistent card numbers or strange fonts

Check official Pokémon websites or trusted sellers to match the artwork and layout.

5. Beware of Unrealistic Stats or Attacks

Fakes sometimes have absurd attacks like “2000 damage” or made-up energy types. If the card seems overpowered or the text is poorly translated, it’s a red flag.

6. Check the Source

Where you buy matters. Avoid buying loose cards from:

Toy shops that don’t specialise in Pokémon
Online marketplaces with poor ratings
Social media ads selling bulk packs too cheaply

Instead, buy from trusted Irish sellers, pop-up shops, or official retailers.

7. Japanese and Foreign Cards

Be especially careful when buying Japanese or Korean cards. They are often used as templates for counterfeits. Make sure you know what the authentic version should look like.

8. Use UV Light or Rip Test (With Caution)

Serious collectors sometimes use a UV light to check for hidden layers or even rip the card to see the black ink core. These methods should only be used if you don’t mind damaging the card to test it.

9. Get a Second Opinion

If in doubt, ask an expert. Bring your cards to a local event or message a trusted Irish seller like Pokebundles Ireland. Experienced sellers can often spot fakes instantly and offer advice.

Final Tip: Protect Your Collection

To avoid fakes:

Buy sealed products from reputable sources
Keep high-value cards in sleeves or slabs
Teach your kids how to spot fake cards early
Want to buy cards that are 100% real? Visit www.pokebundles.ie