Visual Inspection:
* Cardstock and Texture:
* Real cards: Have a consistent, slightly textured cardstock with a subtle sheen.
* Fake cards: Often feel flimsy, have a smooth or overly glossy finish, or look like they're printed on cheap paper.
* Printing Quality:
* Real cards: Crisp lines, vibrant colors, and accurate alignment of images and text.
* Fake cards: Blurry or pixelated images, faded colors, misaligned text, or uneven ink distribution.
* Foil Stamps and Holographic Effects:
* Real cards: Holographic cards have a unique rainbow effect, and foil stamps are smooth and reflective.
* Fake cards: The holographic effect might look dull, pixelated, or uneven. Foil stamps can be bumpy or have uneven reflectivity.
* Card Backs:
* Real cards: Backs are consistently printed with the Pokemon logo and background pattern.
* Fake cards: May have inconsistent or blurred logos, misaligned patterns, or incorrect colors.
* Card Borders:
* Real cards: Crisp, clean borders with no rough edges or uneven lines.
* Fake cards: Borders may be blurry, pixelated, or have uneven lines.
Additional Checks:
* Watermark: Some Pokemon cards (especially older ones) have a watermark that only shows under a light. A fake card might lack this watermark or have an incorrect one.
* Card Numbering: Card numbers on authentic Pokemon cards are printed in a consistent font and size. Look for any inconsistencies in the number placement or font style.
* Smell Test: Real cards have a distinct, almost papery smell. Fake cards might have a plasticky or chemically smell.
Be Aware:
* Variations: Even real Pokemon cards can have slight variations in printing, color, and texture due to the manufacturing process.
* Early Prints vs. Later Prints: Older Pokemon cards might have slightly different printing methods or features compared to newer cards.
* Online Resources: Websites like TCGplayer, PokéBeach, and Bulbapedia can provide visual references and information about specific cards.
Important Note: It's crucial to buy from reputable sources like trusted online marketplaces, local game stores, or official distributors to minimize the risk of buying fake cards.
If you're unsure about a card's authenticity, it's always best to consult with an experienced collector or card dealer for a professional opinion.