How to Spot Fake Pokemon Cards: Quick Guide + Free Database

Fake Pokemon cards are everywhere. With chase cards selling for hundreds of dollars, counterfeiters have flooded the market. Fortunately, there’s a free resource that makes authentication easy.

The Ungraded Fake Card Database

Ungraded.com maintains a searchable database of known counterfeit Pokemon cards with high-definition 3D imaging comparisons.

How It Works

1. Search for your card — Enter the card name or set
2. View side-by-side comparisons — See real vs fake with 3D rotating images
3. Learn the specific tells — Each fake entry shows exactly what’s wrong

The database is free and constantly updated with newly discovered fakes.

Quick Authentication Tests

If you can’t find your card in the database, use these quick checks:

The Light Test

Hold the card up to a bright light (phone flashlight works).

• Real: Light passes through with reddish tint, dark middle layer visible
• Fake: Blocks too much light or lets too much through

Card Back Check

The fastest visual test. Fakes almost always get the back wrong:

• Pokeball colors — Wrong shade of red is common
• Blue swirl pattern — Often too dark, blurry, or wrong shade
• Overall color — Frequently over-saturated or washed out

The Accent Mark

Check if “Pokémon” has the accent over the “é”. Fakes often miss it.

Red Flags When Buying

• Prices significantly below market value
• Sellers with no feedback or reviews
• “Sealed” product from random sellers
• Stock photos instead of actual card images

What If You Have Fakes?

1. Document with photos
2. Request refund from seller
3. File dispute if needed (PayPal, credit card)
4. Report the seller

For high-value cards, consider professional grading from PSA, BGS, or CGC — they authenticate during the grading process.