Are you a fan of Pokémon and looking to start collecting and buying Pokémon cards? Whether you’ve dabbled as a collector before or are a newbie just starting out, this guide will help you learn the basics of collecting as well as explore good options for buying Pokémon cards.
Understand the various Pokémon card rarities
First, it’s important to understand the different types of Pokémon cards available. There are three main types: regular cards, holofoil cards, and reverse holofoil cards. Regular cards are the most common and feature the standard Pokémon artwork. Holofoil cards have a glossy, holographic finish and are generally more valuable than regular cards. Reverse holofoil cards have the holographic finish on the background of the card instead of the artwork.
On the more valuable side, you will find full Art & illustration rare cards whose design covers the entire card except the border, hyper rare gold cards, rainbow cards (Sun & Moon, Sword & Shield Sets) and alternate art or special illustration rares which are much harder to acquire. The new Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet Cards are also brining back Ex Cards.
Next, you’ll want to learn about the different sets of Pokémon cards. Each set has its own unique set of cards, and some sets are more valuable than others. Some popular sets include the new Crown Zenith which followed the also well-received Silver Tempest. A good place to start could be the new upcoming Pokémon Scarlet & Violet set releasing at the end of March. As you become more experienced, you’ll learn to differentiate the different sets and determine which ones are worth collecting.
Where to buy your Pokémon Cards
When it comes to buying Pokémon cards, there are several options to consider. You can purchase cards from your local card shop, you can buy Pokémon cards online from trusted retailers, or through online auction sites such as eBay. Online retailers and card shops often have the most recent sets of cards and even carry single Pokémon cards to help you complete them.
When buying cards online, be sure to research the seller and read customer reviews to ensure that you’re getting a quality product. You can also use tools like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) to verify the authenticity of graded Pokémon cards if you are buying any of those.
Focus on what you want to collect
The best tip we can offer to new collectors is to set some boundaries and focus on what you want to collect. Whether you are trying to make complete sets or collect only cards of your favorite Pokémon, this is a sure way to keep this a budget-friendly activity.
Protect and store your cards
When collecting Pokémon cards, it’s important to keep your cards in good condition. This means storing them in protective sleeves and keeping them away from heat and moisture. It’s also a good idea to keep a record of your collection, including the cards you have and their condition. You can use an application such as Collectr which allows you to track your collection and see its growing value.
Enjoy the journey
One of the most important things to remember when collecting and buying Pokémon cards is to have fun! Collecting and buying cards can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it’s important to remember that it’s not just about the value of the cards. Enjoy the artwork, the nostalgia, and the memories that come with each card.
In conclusion, collecting and buying Pokémon cards can be a great hobby for fans of the franchise. By understanding the different types of cards, sets and where to buy them, and how to properly store and keep track of your collection, you’ll be able to start your journey as a Pokémon card collector with confidence. On that note, enjoy and happy collecting!”
Note: The above article was submitted on behalf of the folks at Danireon.
Source: Pokemon
