If you grew up with Pokémon, you’ll know the thrill of opening a fresh pack and hoping for something rare. Today, Pokémon cards are more than just a game — they’re one of the most popular collectible hobbies in the world, with cards ranging from pocket money to thousands of pounds in value.
Whether you’re starting a new collection, returning to the hobby after years away, or helping a younger fan get started, this guide will walk you through the essentials.
🟡 1. Understanding the Pokémon TCG (Trading Card Game)
Pokémon cards were first released by Wizards of the Coast in 1999 and are still produced today by The Pokémon Company International. Each card represents a Pokémon with stats, attacks, and abilities used in battles.
There are three main types of cards:
- Pokémon cards – the creatures themselves.
- Trainer cards – items, supporters, and stadiums that help during play.
- Energy cards – needed to use attacks.
Even if you don’t play, it’s useful to understand these basics because playability can affect value and desirability among collectors.
Watch this simple beginner’s guide to playing Pokémon…
🔵 2. What Makes a Good Collection
A good collection is about focus and enjoyment — not just money. Here are a few popular ways collectors build their sets:
- Set Completion – collecting every card from a specific release (e.g. Scarlet & Violet, 151, or Evolving Skies).
- Favourite Pokémon Focus – collecting every version of a particular Pokémon (like Pikachu or Charizard).
- Vintage Cards – original Base Set, Jungle, and Fossil cards from the late ’90s.
- Rarity Collecting – focusing on holographic, full-art, EX, GX, or alternate art cards.
💡 Tip: Store your cards in binders with protective sleeves and avoid direct sunlight or humidity to keep them in mint condition.
Watch this great video on how to make your first starter deck…
🔴 3. How to Tell a Pokémon Card’s Value
Several factors determine a card’s worth:
✨ Rarity Symbol:
At the bottom right corner of the card:
- ● = Common
- ◆ = Uncommon
- ★ = Rare
- ★★ / ★★★ or special icons = Ultra/Secret Rare
📅 Set & Age:
Older sets, especially Base Set (1999), Jungle, Fossil, and Team Rocket, hold strong nostalgic value.
⚙️ Condition:
Collectors grade condition from Mint (perfect) down to Poor. Scratches, whitening, or creases can drastically lower value.
For high-value cards, consider professional grading by PSA, Beckett, or CGC.
🔥 Popular Pokémon:
Cards featuring Charizard, Pikachu, Mewtwo, and legendary Pokémon tend to hold the highest demand.
Watch this very straightforward explainer video of the basics of a Pokémon card…
🟢 4. Most Collectible & Valuable Pokémon Cards
Some cards have reached legendary status among fans:
- 1999 1st Edition Base Set Charizard (Holo) – iconic and highly sought after.
- Pikachu Illustrator Card – one of the rarest cards ever printed, originally given to contest winners in Japan.
- Shining Pokémon & Gold Star Cards – unique designs and limited print runs from early 2000s sets.
- Modern Hits – cards like Umbreon VMAX (Alt Art) or Charizard UPC Promos continue to hold strong demand.
Watch this video that teaches you how to identify rare and valuable Pokémon cards. It covers the basics of rarity symbols, different card types, and how to determine the era of a card. The video also explains how to use online resources like TCG Player and eBay to find the market price of specific cards.
🧩 5. How To Start Collecting and Playing the Game
Even if you start as a collector and just enjoy the art on the cards. Or you like the Nintendo games or the movies and tv shows or have a collection of plush toys, learning to play the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG ) can really deepen your enjoyment of all things Pokémon.
You can try online versions via Pokémon TCG Live or local league events at game stores.
Playing helps you understand why certain cards rise in popularity and gives you a reason to expand your collection.
Check out this video, which is a guide for new Pokémon card collectors in 2025. It covers the basics of storage and protection, as well as the best products to start with, including Elite Trainer Boxes, booster boxes, and booster bundles. The video also touches on the importance of buying from reputable sellers and avoiding scalpers.
🛍️ 6. Buying, Selling & Trading Safely
- Buy from trusted sellers (official shops, certified online stores, or well-rated eBay sellers).
- Avoid fake cards – counterfeits often have off colours, fuzzy text, or different back shades.
- Check recent eBay sales (not listings) to see the actual selling price, not the asking price.
- Keep records of your collection’s value if you plan to resell or insure it.
Watch this very informative video to help you Learn to distinguish real from fake Pokémon cards using simple tests. This video demonstrates several methods, including the light test, examining holographic patterns, and checking card texture. Explore practical tips for avoiding counterfeit cards and building your collection wisely.
⭐ Final Thoughts
Collecting Pokémon cards isn’t just about profit — it’s about nostalgia, fun, and community. Whether you’re hunting for rare Charizards or just building decks to play with friends, it’s a hobby that rewards patience and passion.
If you’d like to explore trading cards, check out the Trading Cards section in the Starshop Collectibles shop — where I showcase all types of trading cards and accessories…