That old shoebox of Pokémon cards you have tucked away could be hiding some surprising treasures. The thrill of rediscovering a collection is realizing that some cards have become incredibly sought after. But how can you tell if you have a common creature or a collector's dream? We’re here to help you look at your collection with a fresh perspective and identify those potentially valuable gems.

Check for the Rarity Symbol

At the bottom of every Pokémon card, there is a small symbol that indicates its rarity. A circle means the card is common, while a diamond signifies it is uncommon. The one you’re really looking for is the star, which marks a card as rare. Some cards feature holographic art, which often increases their desirability and value among collectors.

The Importance of Card Condition

First Edition and Shadowless Marks

The earliest Pokémon cards from the original Base Set are highly prized. Look for a small "Edition 1" symbol on the left side of the card, just below the Pokémon's art box. Additionally, some of these first-run cards lack a drop shadow on the right border of the artwork, making them "Shadowless" and even more scarce and valuable to devoted collectors.

Special Cards: Holos, Promos, and Errors

Beyond standard rarity, certain cards have unique characteristics that make them stand out. Holographic cards with shimmering artwork are always worth a closer look. Promotional cards, often released for special events, and cards with printing errors, like missing symbols or incorrect text, are exceptionally rare and can be among the most valuable finds for any dedicated collector.

It’s always an exciting moment when you discover a rare card in your collection. By checking for rarity symbols, assessing the condition, and identifying special print runs, you can get a better sense of what treasures you might have. At Tower of Games, we love helping our community engage with their collections. Stop by to browse our single cards or bring your binder to trade with fellow enthusiasts!