Fake trading cards are everywhere these days especially now that collecting has become so popular again. Whether you’re into Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, sports cards or other trading card games it’s really useful to understand how to spot a fake.
Why Counterfeit Cards Are a Growing Issue
There’s been a huge boom in trading card collecting thanks to big-money auctions, influencers and that good old wave of nostalgia. First edition Pokémon and vintage sports cards have seen massive price jumps with some going for thousands or even millions. With all this hype it’s no surprise that fakes are turning up more often. Scammers are getting better at copying designs and it can be tough to spot the difference. Whether you’re buying cards for your kids, or adding to your own collection, learning how to tell if a trading card is fake will help you steer clear of trouble and keep your collection in good shape.
How to Tell if a Trading Card Is Fake
1. Feel the Card: Edge, Weight & Texture
Start by handling the card:
- Thickness & Weight: Real cards have a certain thickness and feel solid. Fakes can be too thin, flimsy or sometimes even too thick
- Light Transparency: Hold the card up to a light. Real Pokémon cards often show a faint blue line or layer inside. Fakes can be see through or not let any light through at all
- Surface Finish: Genuine cards usually have a soft matte finish. Fakes might look too shiny or feel rough
If something feels off, that’s your first clue. A quick touch test goes a long way when figuring out how to tell if a trading card is fake.
2. Inspect Print Quality & Colour Accuracy
Next look closely at how the card is printed:
- Dot Patterns vs Smooth Prints: Older cards use tiny dot patterns in the printing. Fakes often have smudgy or smooth digital prints
- Colour Accuracy: Real cards have clear consistent colours. If the card looks faded, too bright or slightly off that’s a red flag
- Text Sharpness: Real cards have crisp text. Blurry writing or uneven ink can be signs of a fake
A cheap magnifying glass or jeweller’s loupe can help here. It’s a simple tool that reveals a lot when you’re figuring out how to tell if a trading card is fake.
3. Examine Borders, Fonts & Spelling
Here’s where small mistakes stand out:
- Border Alignment: Check if the borders are even. If they’re lopsided or thick on one side it’s likely a fake. This is different to centreing which can be off with real cards and inevitably impacts the grade
- Font Match: Real cards use specific fonts. If something looks off it probably is
- Spelling Errors: Typos, strange spacing or wonky lettering are dead giveaways
It’s surprising how often fakes mess up on little things like spelling. Catching these mistakes is another step in how to tell if a trading card is fake.
4. Detect Artificial Wear or Ageing
Some fakes are made to look old. Here’s how to spot them:
- Tea Staining: Some scammers use tea or coffee to fake age spots. They often look patchy or unnatural
- Even Wear: Real wear and tear is random. If a card looks too evenly damaged it’s probably fake
- Creases: Authentic damage is messy. Fakes sometimes have creases that are too perfect
It might look old but that doesn’t mean it’s real. Knowing how to tell if a trading card is fake helps you avoid these tricks.
5. Check Security Features: Holograms & Serial Numbers
Lots of newer cards include special features to prove they’re real:
- Holograms or Stamps: Some cards have shiny stamps or embedded holograms. If the shiny part looks like a sticker or peels off it’s probably fake
- Serial Numbers: PSA or Beckett graded cards will have a serial number. You can check it online to make sure it matches the card
- Logos: For example Yu-Gi-Oh! cards have a Konami logo on the back. If it’s blurry or missing that’s a bad sign
Security features make a big difference when checking how to tell if a trading card is fake.
6. Use the Right Tools: Magnifier, Scale & Light
You don’t need expensive gear to check cards:
- Magnifier: Helps you spot print dots and fine details
- Scale: Weigh your card and compare it with known real ones
- Torch or UV Light: Can highlight internal layers or tampering
- Comparison Card: Have a real card nearby for side by side checks
These tools are cheap and useful. They’re perfect for anyone trying to learn how to tell if a trading card is fake.
7. Buy Smart: Source & Price Speak Volumes
Be careful where you shop:
- Buy from Trusted Sellers: Stick to shops, trusted dealers or sellers with good reviews
- Ask for Proof: If someone refuses to show clear pictures or grading info walk away
- Watch Out for Bargains: If it seems too good to be true it probably is
Being a smart buyer helps avoid fakes before they ever reach your collection. It’s a big part of how to tell if a trading card is fake.
8. Professional Grading & Authentication
Still unsure? Let the pros help:
- Black Label Grading works with big names like Beckett, PSA and CGC to confirm if cards are real
- Their experts know what to look for from card layers to print patterns
- If you’ve spent good money on a card or plan to sell it getting it graded protects its value
Having a card professionally checked is the most reliable way to know how to tell if a trading card is fake. There is a price for authentication with the graders, but it will provide that all important peace of mind.
How to Tell if a Trading Card Is Fake
To sum it all up here’s what to do:
- Feel the card for weight, finish and thickness
- Check the print for colours, text and patterns
- Watch out for weird borders or typos
- Don’t fall for fake ageing tricks
- Look for security features like holograms and serial numbers
- Use simple tools like a magnifier or torch
- Shop smart and only buy from trusted sellers
- If in doubt get it graded by Black Label Grading or pop by our stand at one of our upcoming events to speak to our experts.
Spotting a fake card doesn’t have to be hard. With a bit of knowledge and a close look you can keep your collection safe and genuine.
If you’ve confirmed your cards are real and want to protect their value even more, submit them to Black Label Grading, we help you submit cards to top-tier graders like PSA, Beckett and CGC for added assurance and value.
Any Questions about submitting your cards with us? Visit our FAQ Page, or contact us here.
