How to Spot Fake Pokémon Cards: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Collection

With the trading card market booming from Pokémon to sports cards counterfeiters have gotten increasingly sophisticated. One of the most reliable ways to catch a fake is by carefully examining the back of the card. In this guide, we'll walk you through exactly what to look for.

Color Accuracy and Shade

The back of a genuine Pokémon card, for example, has a very specific shade of blue. Counterfeit cards frequently get this wrong the color may appear too light, too dark, too purple, or too teal. Compare the card back-to-back (literally) with a known authentic card of the same era.

Pro tip: Cards from different print runs may have slightly different shades, so compare against a card from the same set when possible.

The Light Test

Hold the card up to a light source. Genuine cards have a black inner layer sandwiched between the front and back layers, which blocks light. If significant light passes through the card, it's likely a fake or a very poor-quality reprint. This inner black layer is one of the hardest things for counterfeiters to replicate.

Final Thoughts

Spotting fake cards takes practice, but the back of the card is one of the most consistent places where counterfeiters slip up. When buying valuable cards, always ask for clear photos of the card back, and when possible, purchase from reputable sellers who stand behind their authenticity.

At Ditto Again Sports, every card we sell is hand checked for authenticity. Have questions about a card you're considering? Reach out  we're here to help.