More than $200 million worth of counterfeit and altered trading cards were intercepted in 2025, while fake Pokémon cards rose by 125%, according to a report from the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA).
The sharp increase has prompted trading card pricing experts CardTrack to outline how collectors can identify forgeries and avoid paying for fake cards.
Josh Lingenfelter, CEO of CardTrack, said: “The sheer volume of counterfeits entering the market means collectors need to treat every purchase with caution, particularly from unverified sellers.”
“The number one rule in making sure that a card is real when trading would be to always have an authentic card with you, from a trusted, reputable source, on hand to use as a reference for comparison.”
PSA graded more than 19 million cards in 2025 and recorded an overall rise of more than 45% in counterfeit cards flagged compared with the previous year. Trading card games accounted for more than half of the counterfeits detected, with Pokémon the standout category.
Modern cards from 1990 onwards made up more than 70% of the total. The $200 million figure is a conservative estimate of the projected market value of the intercepted material, calculated using average grades rather than premium results.
Counterfeiters are increasingly targeting both high-end and mid-range cards, shifting towards volume production of more accessible items. PSA data shows that sports card counterfeits rose by only about 5%, while Pokémon counterfeits increased dramatically, reflecting the franchise’s central place in current demand.
6 signs of a fake Pokémon card
Compare the surface texture
Having an authentic card available for comparison can help collectors identify differences in texture.
Modern textured or embossed Pokémon cards should have a noticeable texture. A smooth, slick surface where embossing should be present can indicate a counterfeit. Similarly, texture in an area that should be smooth can be a warning sign.
Collectors can also use a loupe, or small magnifying glass, to inspect the card. Genuine cards have a fine rosette dot pattern, and inconsistencies in this pattern may raise red flags.
Check the material quality and size
Authentic cards follow established standards for size and thickness, although some older cards and specific collections may differ.
Counterfeit cards can deviate from these dimensions or feel too thin or flimsy compared with genuine Pokémon cards. Collectors can gently bend a card and compare how it snaps back with an authentic card.
Inspect the holographic foil
Many Pokémon cards feature holographic foil patterns, which counterfeiters can struggle to reproduce accurately.
Collectors should look for inconsistencies in the pattern and check whether the holographic effect remains distinct and consistent when the card is tilted under a light.
The card should also be compared with the design of the relevant collection to ensure it has the correct foil pattern, or no foil if the original set does not feature it.
Compare the print quality
Authentic Pokémon cards are produced using high-quality materials and precise printing.
Collectors should examine the image resolution, as poor-quality printing is a common warning sign. Colours and fonts should also be compared with those on an authentic card, as inaccurate hues or subtle differences in typography can indicate a counterfeit.
Perform the black layer test
The edge of a Pokémon card can provide another quick indication of authenticity.
Genuine Pokémon cards have a very thin but opaque black layer between the front and back. When held up to a bright light, a genuine card should allow little to no light to pass through because of this layer.
If light passes through the card, it may not be authentic.
Lingenfelter of CardTrack added: “When it comes to quick checks, the black layer test is one of the most reliable checks a collector can do in seconds. Taking a few moments to do this check before purchasing or trading cards could save you from making big losses from your bank account or valuable collection.”
Verify unfamiliar characters
There are more than 1,000 Pokémon characters, making it easier for novice collectors to mistakenly trade cards featuring unfamiliar or incorrect characters.
Counterfeit cards may use character images from other franchises influenced by Pokémon, which can cause confusion.
Collectors should not rely solely on memory. Research can help verify whether the artwork depicts an official Pokémon character.
Buying from established sellers
These checks, combined with buying from established sellers and verifying graded cards where possible, can provide stronger protection as the market continues to attract genuine enthusiasts and sophisticated forgers.
The PSA findings highlight the scale of the counterfeit market and the importance of vigilance when collecting Pokémon and other trading cards.