If you’re an aspiring Pokemon card collector, it’s important to have a good understanding of the TCG itself before dropping heaps of money onrare cards.Understanding the different expansion sets and types of sets is crucial, as is understanding the types of holofoils and card treatments.
Arguably, the most important thing to get to grips with is card rarities, though, especially if you’re looking to collect both English and Japanese cards. The rarities differ between the two languages, and one of the most important Japanese card types to keep an eye out for is the Super Rare category.
Working as the Japanese equivalent to EnglishUltra Rare cards, Super Rares are full arts that either feature popular Pokemon or Supporters. They’re easier to get a hold of than Special Art Rares orHyper Rares, but they can still spike up in price depending on the featured character and style.
As of theScarlet & Violetera of the Pokemon TCG, Super Rare cards are marked with the letters SR in the bottom left-hand corner of the card.
How to tell if you’ve pulled a Super Rare Pokemon card
If you’re looking to organize your Pokemon TCG collection efficiently or even make some money off of your cards, identifying card rarity and classifications is an essential skill. To help pick out Super Rare cards successfully, ask yourself these questions:
If you’re still unsure about the card you’ve pulled, it’s worth checking out an online database likeBulbapediafor digital card images and further card details. Comparing your card to digital versions and official copy can help to make identification much easier.
To expand upon your Pokemon TCG knowledge even further, why not compare the differences betweenSpecial Art RaresandSpecial Illustration Rares? The differences between Japanese and English cards aren’t huge, but they can make a big difference to overall value and pricing.
Em Stonham was a Games Writer on Dexerto’s UK team, specializing in Pokemon coverage. They are a Pokemon TCG expert, and also covered Pokemon Go, and Pokemon Sword & Shield. Em is also a big fan of trading card games and World of Warcraft, with bylines at Only Greats, Sleeve No Card Behind, and Diamond Lobby.
