How to Tell If a Pokémon Card Is Rare (Beginner’s Guide 2025 edition)

How to Tell If a Pokémon Card Is Rare (Beginner’s Guide)

If you're new to collecting Pokémon cards in Ireland, you may be wondering how to tell if a card is rare or valuable. Not all shiny or holographic cards are worth a lot, and some of the most valuable cards don’t look flashy at all. This guide will walk you through the basics of identifying rare Pokémon cards in 2025.

1. Check the Card Rarity Symbol

Every English-language Pokémon card has a rarity symbol at the bottom of the card next to the card number.

• Circle (●) = Common

• Diamond (◆) = Uncommon

• Star (★) = Rare

• Star with additional marks (e.g., ★H, ★★) = Higher rarity levels

Holo rares, reverse holos, ultra rares, and secret rares will often have a star but include other traits that make them more desirable.

2. Look at the Card Number

If the number on the card is higher than the total number in the set (e.g., 202/198), it’s a Secret Rare. These are typically gold cards, rainbow rares, or special art cards.

3. Understand Modern Rarity Types (2020-2025)

Here are some modern rarity terms you should know:

• Holo Rare: Regular art, but with a holographic image box

• Reverse Holo: Shiny background, non-holo image

• V, VMAX, EX, GX: Cards with stronger attacks, usually rare

• Full Art: Artwork takes up the entire card

• Alt Art (Alternate Art): Unique illustration style and layout

• SAR (Special Art Rare): Introduced in Scarlet & Violet sets

Alt Arts and SARs are among the most valuable cards in recent sets.

4. Recognise Set Symbols and Codes

Each card belongs to a specific set. You can identify the set by looking at the small icon and code near the bottom corner. Knowing which sets have valuable chase cards helps you spot potential value.

Examples:

• SWSH = Sword & Shield era

• SV = Scarlet & Violet era

• Promo = Black Star Promo (not part of a set)

5. Promo Cards and Exclusive Releases

Promo cards can be rare if:

• They were part of limited-edition boxes

• Released only at specific events (e.g., Worlds, Pokémon Center)

• Came from Japanese campaigns or tournaments

Some of the rarest cards are promos that weren’t available in packs.

6. Card Condition (Raw vs. Graded)

Even a rare card loses value if it’s damaged. Check for:

• Whitening on edges

• Scratches on holo

• Dents or creases

Collectors often send cards for grading to increase their value. A PSA 10 version of a rare card can be worth 5x more than a played copy.

7. Check Online Price Tools

Use tools like:

• TCGPlayer (US-based, great for ballpark values)

• Cardmarket (UK & EU pricing)

• Pokédata (charts value trends)

• eBay sold listings

8. Watch for Fake Cards

Fake cards are still common in Ireland and across Europe. Red flags include:

• Very glossy or very dull card stock

• Blurry print or incorrect fonts

• Back of the card too dark or too light

If unsure, ask a seller or compare it to a known real card side-by-side.

Final Tip: Bring It to a Local Event

Not sure what you have? Bring your cards to a local Pokémon pop-up event or show. Irish sellers like Pokebundles Ireland can help check rarity, offer trades and more!

Looking for rare cards or mystery bundles? Browse our latest stock: www.pokebundles.ie