How to spot a fake
How to Spot a Fake Pokémon Card
With the rising value of Pokémon cards, counterfeits have become increasingly common, making authentication an essential skill for collectors.
Genuine Pokémon cards have high-quality printing, consistent coloring, and a specific card stock that includes a thin black or blue inner layer—visible when the edge is carefully inspected.
Fakes often have blurry text, off-centered borders, or incorrect font and energy symbols. You can also use the light test: when held up to a light source, real cards show a subtle layer in the middle, while fakes tend to appear opaque or too thin. When it comes to graded cards, pay close attention to the PSA label and slab design.
Authentic PSA cases have a clear, sturdy plastic shell, consistent label font, and a unique certification number that can be verified directly on the official PSA website. Fake slabs may have spelling errors, incorrect label colors, or inferior sealing quality. When in doubt, always cross-check certification numbers and buy only from trusted or verified sellers.
Top 3 Ways to Verify Authenticity
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Check the Card Stock: Real Pokémon cards have a distinct layered construction with a black or blue core visible from the edge.
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Verify PSA Certification: Enter the serial number on PSA’s official website to confirm authenticity and view population data.
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Examine Print Quality: Authentic cards have crisp colors, sharp text, and uniform borders—fakes often look faded or pixelated.