The rise in Pokémon card popularity
Pokémon cards have experienced a resurgence in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people found the time to dig through old belongings. Jeffrey Follett, a manager at 401 Games in Toronto, explains that this time saw a significant increase in people looking to sell or appraise their collections. According to eBay Canada, searches for "Pokémon" increased by more than 160% over the past five years, reflecting the growing interest in the franchise.
The appeal of Pokémon cards lies in their nostalgic value for those who grew up with the series, as well as the potential for profit. Some rare cards have fetched astronomical prices. For example, in 2022, YouTube personality Logan Paul purchased a Pikachu Illustrator card for $5.2 million USD, while other cards, such as a Mew Victory Orb, First Edition Charizard, and Eevee promo card, sold for $26,500, $15,500, and $12,500, respectively, in Canada. However, not all cards are worth millions, and determining their value requires understanding the key factors at play.
Key factors determining card value
Several important factors influence whether a Pokémon card is worth thousands or merely a few dollars. These factors include rarity, condition, and the card’s age, among others.
Rarity
One of the main indicators of a card’s value is its rarity, which can be identified by a small symbol located in the bottom left corner of the card. Common cards are marked with a black circle, while uncommon cards have a black diamond, and rare cards feature a black star. In addition to these categories, there are secret rares, alternate arts, and other high-value variations that collectors prize.
Daniel Daoust, an avid collector, emphasizes that rarity and scarcity are what make certain cards more desirable. Daoust, who rekindled his passion for Pokémon cards in 2016 after selling his childhood collection for $50 at a flea market, now owns a First Edition Shadowless Blastoise, one of his most treasured possessions. He notes that collectors seek out cards that set them apart, whether due to limited availability or unique features.
Condition
The condition of a Pokémon card is arguably the most significant factor in determining its value. Cards in pristine condition can be worth exponentially more than those with visible wear and tear. According to Follett from 401 Games, collectors are especially interested in older cards that have been well-preserved. Cards that show minimal signs of use—no bends, scratches, or faded colors—are the most sought-after.
Many collectors turn to grading services like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) or Beckett Collectibles to assess the condition of their cards. These companies assign grades from one to 10 based on strict criteria, such as centering and surface quality. A PSA 10 card, which indicates perfect condition, can significantly increase the value of a card, turning it from a few hundred dollars into thousands.
Age and nostalgia
Older cards, especially those from the late 1990s and early 2000s, are typically more valuable than modern cards. The original sets, such as the Base Set, Jungle, and Fossil, are highly coveted by collectors due to their rarity and the nostalgic connection they evoke. First Edition cards from these sets, particularly those featuring iconic Pokémon like Charizard, Pikachu, Blastoise, and Mew, are among the most expensive on the market.
In 2021, The Pokémon Company capitalized on this nostalgia by releasing a special set of cards called Pokémon Celebrations, marking the 25th anniversary of the card game. This set included remakes of classic cards, which quickly became popular among both new and returning collectors.
How to determine if your cards are valuable
If you want to assess the value of your Pokémon cards, there are several methods you can try. One of the simplest ways is to search online for recent sales of similar cards. Websites like eBay and online marketplaces offer a wealth of information about current market prices, allowing you to compare your cards to those that have been sold recently.
Additionally, taking your collection to a local game shop can provide a professional evaluation. Follett notes that many people bring in entire collections for appraisal, hoping to get a fair offer. While this method may not always yield the highest prices, it can save collectors time and effort.
Selling your Pokémon cards
For those looking to sell their Pokémon cards, there are several avenues to explore. Online platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Kijiji are popular choices for individual sales, but these require some effort in listing and negotiating with buyers. When selling through these channels, Daoust advises getting references and checking if the buyer has a good reputation within the community to avoid scams.
Alternatively, local game stores often purchase collections outright, offering a quick and convenient way to sell cards. However, sellers may need to adjust their expectations, as game stores may offer lower prices than the open market due to the need for resale margins.
Regardless of the method chosen, selling cards can be time-consuming, and it’s important to have realistic expectations about the value of each card. High-value cards in perfect condition may fetch high prices, but the majority of collections will likely consist of common or less valuable cards.
Pokémon cards have become a significant collectible, with some cards worth substantial sums due to rarity, condition, and nostalgia. However, not every collection will yield high profits, and it’s essential to understand the factors that influence value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone rediscovering old cards, assessing their worth requires attention to detail and knowledge of the current market. With the right approach, your Pokémon cards could become more than just a childhood memory—they could be a lucrative investment.
source: CBC
