Hard to tell if a Pokémon card is rare or just shiny? Don’t worry!
We’ll explain the symbols, the types of shine, the secret numbers, and the tricks to spot the real gems ✨
🕵️♀️ How to Spot a Rare Pokémon Card? The 5 Signs You Shouldn’t Miss
Published on 07 mar 2019
Reading time:2 minutes
🔍 1. The Rarity Symbol (bottom right corner)
Every card shows a small symbol to the right of its set number:
⚪ Circle = common card
◆ Diamond = uncommon
★ Star = rare card
The more complex the symbol (gold, multiple stars, alternate), the more valuable the card.
✨ 2. The Type of Shine (holo, reverse, full art)
Holographic cards (shiny on the image), reverse holos (shiny around the border), and full art cards (full-size artwork) are often the most sought-after.
Some sets, like Crown Zenith or EV 8.5, even feature super-rare alternate artworks!
🧩 3. The Set Number
Check the code at the bottom of the card (e.g. 145/132).
If the number is higher than the total, it’s a secret rare card. These are extremely rare and highly valued by collectors.
🪙 4. Market Value (Price Guide)
Some rare cards might be worth just a few euros… others can go for hundreds 💰
👉 Use sites like Cardmarket, TCGPlayer, or Pokécardex to check the real value before trading or selling.
🛡️ 5. Card Condition
Even an ultra-rare card loses value if it’s bent or damaged.
A mint card (fresh from the pack), protected right away, can become a true investment.
🎁 Conclusion
Learning how to spot a rare card is the first step toward building a quality collection ✨
And to maximize your chances, go for boxes with recent boosters, exclusive promo cards, and built-in protection.
👉 Discover our ideal Pokémon boxes to grow your collection today!
