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When it comes to selling your Pokemon cards, you may have several options, such as selling them in person, at a local store or flea market. However, if you want to make the most profit, the best place to sell your Pokemon cards is online. This is because online marketplaces offer a wider reach and a broader audience of potential buyers, giving you more opportunities to sell your items at a higher price.
Additionally, online platforms like eBay and TCGplayer allow you to list your cards for a fixed price or auction them off to the highest bidder, giving you more control over the selling process. Furthermore, you can easily compare prices with other sellers to ensure you’re offering a competitive price, and you can also sell your cards internationally, opening up a whole new market for your items.
Best places to sell Pokemon Cards online
Here are the best platforms to sell your Pokemon cards online:
1. eBay
eBay, the popular online marketplace, has established itself as the go-to platform for buying and selling Pokemon cards. With a reputation as a trusted and reliable platform, eBay has become the premier destination for casual and serious collectors of Pokemon Trading Card Game (TCG) cards.
The platform has already witnessed millions of Pokemon card sales each year, and its dominance in the space is only getting stronger. eBay’s Pokemon TCG sales saw a remarkable increase of 574% YoY from 2019 to 2020, indicating a growing interest in the hobby and a thriving market for Pokemon card enthusiasts.
eBay has developed a range of features specifically tailored for sellers of collectible items, including an easy-to-use listing process, secure payment options, and powerful search tools that help sellers reach a wider audience. With eBay’s vast network of buyers and sellers, sellers can be confident that they can connect with the most relevant and interested buyers from all over the world.
In addition, eBay’s robust safety measures, including seller protection policies and buyer feedback systems, ensure a secure and transparent transaction process for both parties. In short, eBay offers an unparalleled platform for sellers to showcase and sell their prized Pokemon cards with ease and peace of mind.
Pros
eBay is an excellent platform for selling Pokemon cards due to its numerous advantages. Firstly, eBay has the largest audience of potential buyers, both domestically and internationally, making it a great place to reach a broader market. Secondly, eBay is known for its accurate market value determination of cards through its “eBay comps”, which are comparison prices. These prices are considered the gold standard for determining the fair market value of a card.
Moreover, eBay provides a well-organized listing interface that makes it easier for sellers to photograph, describe, and list their cards. Additionally, sellers can opt for promoted listing options, which enhance the visibility of their listings, leading to increased sales. eBay has also recently introduced a more seller-friendly return window, which is just three days, making it easier for sellers to manage returns.
Furthermore, eBay is the only platform that offers 50% or more total value protection against false or abusive buyer claims. This feature gives sellers a sense of security, knowing they are protected from fraudulent buyers. For cards valued at $250 or more, eBay offers an authenticity guarantee, assuring buyers that the card they purchase is authentic.
Lastly, eBay provides helpful tools and templates for high-volume sellers, making it easier for them to manage their listings. These tools and templates help sellers streamline their processes, saving time and effort. All these factors make eBay an ideal platform for selling Pokemon cards.
Cons
When it comes to selling Pokémon cards on eBay, it’s important to keep a few cons in mind. First and foremost, eBay charges a relatively high fee for selling items on their platform. In fact, the fee can be as high as 15% of the final sale value, which can eat into your profits significantly.
Also, because eBay is such a popular platform, you’ll compete with larger brands and other sellers for organic visibility. This means it can be difficult to get your listings seen by potential buyers, especially if you’re new to selling on the platform.
Finally, creating listings on eBay can be quite time-consuming, as you’ll need to craft your product descriptions carefully, add photos, and set pricing and shipping details. All of these factors should be considered before selling your Pokémon cards on eBay.
As a person who has been buying and selling Pokemon cards on eBay for over a year and has generated sales worth $100,000, I can confidently say that eBay is the safest and most secure platform for selling trading cards.
Compared to other selling options, most other places to sell Pokemon cards have a “buyer-friendly” stance, which means they tend to favor the buyer during disputes. However, eBay stands out as the best platform for mediating disputes between buyers and sellers, and they are even willing to side with sellers in select circumstances.
eBay’s system for resolving disputes is very efficient and transparent. If a dispute arises between a buyer and a seller, eBay provides a platform for them to communicate and resolve the issue. eBay has a team of trained professionals who are dedicated to resolving disputes in a fair and impartial manner, and they always strive to ensure that both parties are satisfied with the outcome.
I strongly recommend eBay as the best place to buy and sell Pokemon cards. The platform’s policies and protections are unmatched, and it is the safest and most secure option for buyers and sellers.
2. Mercari
If you’re keen on selling your Pokemon card collection online, Mercari is a platform worth considering. With its unique promotional tools, Mercari allows sellers to maximize their profits and get the best possible price for their collection. Here’s how it works:
Firstly, you need to set a price for your collection that is slightly above the market value of your cards. Don’t worry, this is just a starting point. Mercari’s algorithm will then incrementally decrease the price over time until a buyer is found. This ensures you get the best possible price for your collection without worrying about setting the price too low or too high.
One of the standout features of Mercari is its ability to empower sellers with promotional tools that help them stand out from the crowd. For example, you can create custom listings with high-quality images and detailed descriptions to showcase your collection in the best possible light. Additionally, you can use Mercari’s social sharing capabilities to promote your listings across various social media platforms and reach a wider audience.
Overall, Mercari is a fantastic platform for selling your Pokemon card collection online. With its innovative pricing model and powerful promotional tools, you can be sure you’ll get the best price for your cards.
Pros
If you are thinking of selling your Pokemon cards, then Mercari can be a great platform for you. Mercari offers some of the best marketing tools, which can help you reach a wider audience. These tools include “Promote to Everyone” and “Offer to Likers”, which can be extremely beneficial for your sales.
The seller user interface of Mercari is very simple to use, making the listing process easier than ever. You only need to snap pictures of your cards, describe them in detail, and list them on the platform. This straightforward process can save you a lot of time and effort.
When it comes to seller protections, Mercari offers modest protections of up to $200 in shipping protection. This can give you peace of mind when shipping your cards to buyers.
One of the biggest advantages of selling on Mercari is that the final sale value of your Pokemon cards is often slightly above market value and competing selling platforms. This means you can get a better price for your cards on Mercari than on other platforms.
Furthermore, on Mercari, you don’t have to worry about competing with commercial selling enterprises. You can sell your cards without any pressure or competition from big retailers.
Overall, selling your Pokemon cards on Mercari can be a great choice if you want a simple, safe, and profitable selling experience.
Cons
When it comes to selling your Pokemon cards on Mercari, there are a few drawbacks that you should keep in mind. Firstly, Mercari has an upper-end limit of $2,000 on transactions, making it difficult to sell a valuable collection all at once. This means you may need to break up your collection into smaller sales or consider using a different platform if you have a high-value collection.
Another potential con of selling on Mercari is that the platform only offers up to $200 in shipping protection, which can leave sellers exposed to high-value items. This means that if something goes wrong during shipping or delivery, you may only be able to recoup up to $200 of the item’s value.
Additionally, Mercari does not offer any bulk listing tools, which can make it time-consuming to list and manage large collections. The platform is best suited for selling single cards or entire collections “all at once.” If you have a large collection, you may consider using a different platform offering more bulk listing options.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Mercari is a domestic-only platform, so you won’t be able to sell your Pokemon cards internationally. If you want to sell to buyers outside of the US, you’ll need to consider using a different platform that supports international sales.
3. TCGplayer
TCGplayer is the largest niche card marketplace in the world. It is well-known for its user-friendly app and price guide that caters to both novices and experts in the field, providing an easy way to value their card collections. Like eBay, TCGplayer offers a comprehensive suite of seller tools seamlessly integrated with their price guide. However, the platform’s user interface may be cluttered and overwhelming, especially for new users.
Despite this, the platform remains an excellent tool for accessing millions of buyers worldwide. One of its notable features, TCGplayer Direct, offers buyers a unique Amazon Prime-like experience, giving them a convenient one-stop shop for millions of cards. Additionally, TCGplayer Direct provides free shipping on all orders over $35, making it an attractive option for many card enthusiasts.
Overall, TCGplayer offers an exceptional platform for buying and selling cards, with a vast range of features and tools that cater to both buyers’ and sellers’ needs. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced collector, TCGplayer is a powerful resource that can help you easily navigate the world of card collecting.
Pros
If you’re looking to sell your Pokémon cards, TCGplayer is worth considering. It is the largest marketplace exclusively dedicated to trading cards in the world. TCGplayer stands out because it provides an Amazon-like experience, where trusted sellers get enhanced visibility for having a great track record. This means you can build a reputation as a reliable seller, which will help you attract more potential buyers.
TCGplayer also offers a proprietary price guide that helps sellers price their cards quickly. This feature is especially useful for those new to selling trading cards, as it takes the guesswork out of pricing. Additionally, TCGplayer provides research tools that show historical price data, which can help you spot emerging price trends. This information is invaluable for anyone looking to sell Pokémon cards for the best possible price.
Another great benefit of selling on TCGplayer is that it offers domestic and international selling options. This means you can reach a wider audience and potentially make more sales. With TCGplayer’s seller protection policies, you can rest assured that you are selling in a safe and fair environment.
Overall, there are many pros to selling your Pokémon cards on TCGplayer, including its large and active marketplace, Amazon-like experience, proprietary price guide, research tools, and domestic and international selling options. Whether you’re a seasoned seller or just starting out, TCGplayer is definitely worth checking out.
Cons
There are a few potential downsides to consider when it comes to selling Pokemon cards on TCGplayer. Firstly, the sales data for high-value cards may not always be up-to-date, making it difficult to accurately determine the current market value of your cards.
Additionally, since listings on TCGplayer rely on accurate seller descriptions and stock photos instead of actual product images, there is a risk of buyer dissatisfaction if the card received doesn’t match their mental image of the card’s condition. This can lead to negative feedback and potentially harm your reputation as a seller.
Furthermore, the buy-and-sell interface on TCGplayer can be overwhelming for some users and may have a steeper learning curve than other selling platforms. It’s important to remember these factors when deciding whether to sell your Pokemon cards on TCGplayer.
4. Pokemon Facebook groups
The Pokemon-oriented Facebook group is one of the best places to sell Pokemon cards online. These groups are created to provide a platform for collectors to connect, showcase their collections, engage in discussions, and buy and sell Pokemon cards. There are two key reasons why these groups are a great option for selling your Pokemon cards.
Firstly, these groups have low seller fees, meaning you get to keep a higher percentage of the sale price than other online selling platforms. Secondly, the purchase intent of the group members is high, which means that you are more likely to find potential buyers who are genuinely interested in purchasing your Pokemon cards.
However, it’s important to note that these groups have strict rules that must be followed closely. Each group may have slightly different rules, so it’s important to read and understand them before posting anything. You may be removed from the group if you violate the rules.
Additionally, these groups often have their own set of acronyms and seller lingo that might confuse those new to the community. Nonetheless, take the time to familiarize yourself with the rules and the language used in these groups. You can have a great experience buying and selling Pokemon cards online.
Frequently used terms include:
If you are a passionate Pokémon card collector, it is crucial to know the commonly used terms and acronyms in Facebook groups. These groups are a great platform for buying, selling, or trading cards with other enthusiasts. Knowing the right terms would enable you to make informed decisions and avoid confusion during transactions.
Some commonly used terms in these groups include FS/NFS, which stands for For Sale/Not for Sale, and FT/NFT, which means For Trade/Not for Trade. You may also come across the term OBO, which stands for Or Best Offer, indicating that the seller is open to negotiating the price. Another essential acronym is G&S, which is short for PayPal Goods & Services, the preferred and safest method for card payments.
You may see the term ‘Pop’ in discussions if you are looking for graded cards. It is short for population and refers to the number of cards that have been graded so far. Additionally, you may find the terms HP, MP, LP, NM, and M, which stand for Heavy Play, Moderate Play, Light Play, Near Mint, and Mint, respectively. These terms indicate the card’s condition and help you determine its value.
One of the biggest advantages of Facebook groups is the personal component. Conversations in the comment sections or direct messaging can quickly lead to the sale or trade of cards that might not be publicly listed on the larger exchanges. Therefore, it is essential to familiarize yourself with these terms to take advantage of the opportunities available in these groups.
Pros
When it comes to selling Pokémon cards, Facebook can be a highly effective platform for several reasons. Firstly, the fees associated with using PayPal Goods and Services (G&S) on Facebook are relatively low, at around 3.5% of the final sale value. This significantly contrasts the fees charged by other platforms, which can be as high as 15%.
In addition to low fees, real-time conversations with potential buyers can help to reduce confusion and facilitate the exchange of information. This makes it easy to share additional images of the cards and answer any questions buyers may have quickly.
Another benefit of selling Pokémon cards on Facebook is that the group members interested in buying are typically highly motivated, resulting in higher buyer intent. This means that group members are more likely to be interested in purchasing from people browsing other platforms or marketplaces.
Finally, when selling on Facebook, it is generally understood that the market value of the cards is the baseline price. Unless otherwise noted, buyers and sellers typically agree on the market value as the starting point for negotiations, which can make selling cards more straightforward and less time-consuming.
Cons
Selling Pokemon cards on Facebook can be a profitable business, but it also comes with its own challenges that sellers need to be aware of. One major disadvantage of selling on Facebook is that fewer seller protections are available, particularly if the seller accepts payment methods other than PayPal Goods and Services. Sellers are more vulnerable to fraudulent activities, such as chargebacks and payment disputes, without this protection.
Moreover, listing Pokemon cards on Facebook can be tedious and labor-intensive, even if the seller only sells individual cards. This is especially true for high-volume sellers who need to manage large inventories, as they may need to spend significant time and effort creating and managing their listings. As a result, this can be an obstacle for those looking to scale their business.
Another drawback of selling Pokemon cards on Facebook is that beginner sellers are more susceptible to scams. As there are no strict quality control measures in place, buyers can easily take advantage of sellers unfamiliar with the selling process. For instance, they may offer to pay through unsecured payment methods that do not protect the seller. As a result, sellers need to be vigilant and cautious when selling Pokemon cards on Facebook.
5. Troll and Toad
Troll and Toad is a well-known name in the trading card game industry, allowing sellers to create a “Buylist” of all the cards they wish to sell. Once you have finalized your list, you can specify the quantity of each card you have and their current condition. Based on this information, Troll and Toad will offer you a cash price for each card.
Once you have accepted their offer, you can send your cards to their headquarters to verify their condition and quantity. If everything checks out, you will receive cash payment within 5 business days of their receipt of your cards. However, if there are any discrepancies or the card’s condition is overstated, the payout may be decreased.
One notable advantage of selling to Troll and Toad is that they offer a 25% payout boost if you receive payment in store credit. This means you can get even more value for your cards if you plan on purchasing trading cards from their store.
Pros
When it comes to selling your Pokemon cards, Troll and Toad is a great option to consider. Here are some key advantages to keep in mind:
Firstly, you can quickly sell your entire collection at just below market value without doing any research. This can be a huge time-saver, especially if you have a large collection to offload.
Secondly, if you choose to receive store credit instead of cash, you’ll get a 25% sales boost. This means you can get even more value from your cards if you buy more Pokemon cards or other gaming items from their online store.
Thirdly, you don’t need to worry about photographing or describing each card. Simply send your collection to Troll and Toad; they’ll take care of the rest.
Fourthly, shipping is a breeze – you only need to send your collection once rather than dealing with multiple transactions with individual buyers.
Finally, you can expect to receive your payment within about a week of sending your cards. This means you can get your cash in hand quickly and easily.
Overall, selling your Pokemon cards on Troll and Toad can be a convenient and profitable way to offload your collection.
Cons
There are some potential downsides when selling your Pokemon cards or collection on Troll and Toad. Firstly, it’s important to note that you may not receive the absolute highest market value for your items.
While the website provides a convenient selling platform, the prices are fixed and there is no room for negotiation. Additionally, you’ll be responsible for your shipping costs and handling, which can add up depending on the size and weight of your package. So, while selling on Troll and Toad can be a straightforward and accessible option, it’s important to weigh these factors against your priorities and goals.
Best places to sell Pokemon Cards near me
When selling your Pokemon card collection, you have two main options – selling them online or in person. If you choose to sell online, you can earn the most money, but it may take longer to find a buyer and complete the transaction. On the other hand, selling your cards in person can be quicker to get paid, as you can negotiate the sale face-to-face and walk away with cash in hand.
However, it’s important to remember that selling in person may require some negotiation skills. It’s a good idea to do some research to determine the value of your cards and set a clear walkaway point before entering into any negotiations.
This will help you avoid settling for a price that’s lower than what your cards are worth. With the right preparation and confidence, you can successfully sell your Pokemon cards in person and get the best possible price for your collection.
6. Facebook Marketplace
If you’re looking for a platform to sell your Pokemon cards, then Facebook Marketplace is worth considering. It’s easy to use and offers a range of benefits that make it one of the best places to sell your items.
To start with, creating a listing on Facebook Marketplace is a breeze. All you need to do is upload pictures of the item you’re selling, set a price, and add all the relevant details, such as the condition of the cards and any other relevant information.
Once you’ve created your listing, Facebook’s Messenger system takes care of the rest. It acts as a liaison between you and interested buyers, making it easy to communicate with potential customers, answer their questions, and finalize the sale.
To reach a wider audience, you can also set up a Facebook Shop. This allows you to add payment details and gain access to millions of potential buyers across the country.
One of the biggest advantages of selling on Facebook is that it’s much more cost-effective than other digital marketplaces like eBay or Mercari. Facebook only charges a 5% transaction fee for each item shipped from your shop, significantly lower than the nearly 15% fees that other platforms collect.
So if you’re looking to sell your Pokemon cards, Facebook Marketplace is definitely a great option to consider.
7. Local card store
If you are looking to sell your Pokemon cards, one option is to go to a local card store (LCS). While it may not be the most profitable option, there are some advantages to consider. Firstly, you will receive an instant cash payout without waiting for an online buyer. By building a relationship with your LCS, you may gain insider leads on new stock releases, be notified when a card of interest hits the shelves, or even receive a store credit bonus on sold goods.
It’s important to keep in mind that LCS owners are also resellers who need to make a profit. This means that the offers you receive for your cards may be between 50-70% of the true market value of the item. Don’t take it personally if the LCS owner is not interested in buying your bulk cards or your collection. They have to consider their own profit margins and may only be interested in certain cards or sets.
Overall, selling your Pokemon cards at an LCS can be a convenient option, especially if you value the benefits of building a relationship with the store owner. However, to get the most money for your cards, you may want to consider other options like online marketplaces or auctions.
8. Pawn Shop
When you are in a situation where you need to make money quickly, selling your Pokemon cards can be a viable option. If you don’t have access to a Local Comic Store (LCS), a pawn shop can be a practical alternative for selling your Pokemon cards in person. However, keep in mind that pawn shops usually offer lower prices than LCS, and you can expect to receive offers at around 30% to 60% of the market value, but only for higher-end cards.
It’s important to note that pawn shops have a more diverse clientele, and they may not be as specialized in buying Pokemon cards as LCS. Therefore, they usually only accept popular Pokemon cards with a higher chance of selling quickly. They may not take less popular or valuable cards that may sit on their shelves for a long time. So, before heading to a pawn shop, it’s recommended to research which cards are in high demand in your area to increase your chances of making a sale.
Where to sell Pokemon Card bulk
If you are passionate about collecting Pokemon cards, you are likely to know the value of individual rare and pricey cards amongst a pile of low-value ones. While selling each of these high-value cards individually will fetch you the maximum profit, getting rid of the less valuable bulk cards such as trainer, energy, and common Pokemon cards in a single sale, even for a modest payout, can be a great deal.
Thankfully, there are several places where you can sell these cards in bulk and receive a fairly decent sum for them. These places offer good rates for low-priced cards you no longer wish to hold onto.
9. Safari Zone
As a Pokemon enthusiast who recently got back into the game after a nearly 20-year hiatus, I was surprised to discover that purchasing a single pack had skyrocketed from $3 to an average of $5-6. Moreover, the odds of pulling a premium card from a pack, also known as the “hit” rates, were heavily skewed across a vast rarity spectrum, making it much more challenging to obtain the rarest cards in modern sets.
As a result, I found myself accumulating hundreds, if not thousands, of low-value Pokemon cards that were of little use to me. If you find yourself in a similar situation, Safari Zone might be just what you need. This online platform specializes in buying modern Pokemon cards (2003 and onward) from collectors in exchange for quick PayPal cash payouts or store credit.
Whether you have duplicate cards or want to get rid of your entire collection, Safari Zone offers a hassle-free solution to monetizing your Pokemon cards while recouping a portion of what you paid for them.
If you’re looking to sell your Pokemon cards to Safari Zone, there are a few things you need to know about the pay rates. At the time of writing, the pay rates are as follows:
- Any Common/Uncommon cards will fetch you $0.02 each.
- Any Rare cards will earn you $0.08 each.
- Any Holo cards are worth $0.12 each.
- Any Basic Energy cards will get you $0.01 each.
- Any GX cards are the most valuable at $1.75 each.
- Any V cards are worth $1.00 each.
- VMAX cards will earn you $1.75 each.
- Any Full Art Trainer cards are worth $1.00 each.
- Any Rainbow Rare cards are the second most valuable at $2.50 each.
- Any Gold Rare cards are worth $1.50 each.
It’s important to note that the cards must be in near-mint condition and sorted correctly into the categories above. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to package them up and mail them to the bulk submission center. The process is super easy, and I’ve submitted rather large bulk submissions twice now. I received my cash payout in about 5 business days. To get started, you’ll need to fill out their bulk submission form.
10. Sell2BBNovelties
If you’re still looking to sell your Pokemon card collection, you might have noticed that there are quite a few options available online. But not all buyers are created equal – some specialize in certain types of cards, while others might only offer a low price that doesn’t reflect the true value of your collection.
One option you might want to consider is Sell2BBNovelties. While many buyers focus on modern Pokemon card bulk, this company accepts vintage Wizards of the Coast set bulk from mid-2003 and earlier. This means that if you have older cards you want to sell, Sell2BBNovelties might be the perfect choice for you.
Of course, the company does have some high standards when it comes to card quality. They’re looking for cards in mint condition, which means they’re free from any kind of wear and tear, including scratches, bends, or other damage. However, if your cards meet these standards, you’ll be able to sell them in bulk without worrying about shipping them out one by one.
Another advantage of selling to Sell2BBNovelties is that they can handle all your volume. Whether you’re looking to sell a small handful of cards or an entire collection, they’ll be able to work with you to come up with a fair price and a fast payout. Once they’ve processed your order and vetted the card conditions, you’ll be able to receive your payment quickly and easily.
If you have a collection of Pokemon cards and are interested in selling them, Sell2BBNovelties can be a good option. However, before you head to their shop, there are some requirements you need to keep in mind. Firstly, the cards you want to sell must be in mint condition, meaning they should not have any bends, creases, scratches, marks, white edges, folds, or any other damages. Additionally, Sell2BBNovelties only accepts English cards, so make sure you don’t have any foreign or fake ones in your collection.
Now, let’s talk about the pay rates. At the time of writing, Sell2BBNovelties pays $0.15 for each Holo card, $0.05 for each Reverse Holo card, $0.04 for each Rare card, $0.03 for each Common/Uncommon card, and $0.005 for each Energy card (or 2 cards for $0.01). Keep in mind that these rates may change over time, so make sure to check their website for the latest updates.
Once you have checked your collection and ensured it meets the requirements, you can head to Sell2BBNovelties’ shop to sell your cards. They have a simple process you can follow, and their staff is usually helpful and friendly. Just remember to bring your ID and be patient, as the evaluation process may take some time, depending on the size of your collection.
Beginner’s guide to get started selling Pokemon cards
If you’re new to selling Pokemon cards and don’t know much about them, you might have more than a few questions. Apart from identifying the right place to sell them, there are several other factors to consider, such as how to sort and price them and get the best possible price for your cards.
To help you out, we have compiled some detailed tips that will help you get the most out of your Pokemon card sales. Whether you want to sell them online or in person, these tips will ensure you get the best possible price for your cards, regardless of your experience with Pokemon cards.
Sort your cards by set
If you are planning to sell your Pokemon cards online, it is essential to sort them by set beforehand. Sorting your cards by set means grouping them according to the specific release of the card. This makes it easier for potential buyers to quickly locate the cards they need. If you are unsure which set a particular card belongs to, you can use search engines like Google to help you.
Simply type in the name of the card, followed by the corresponding number located near the border on the bottom left or bottom right of the card. This number is unique to each card and represents the card’s position in the set.
For instance, if you search for “Bulbasaur 44/102,” you will discover that it is part of the original 1999 Pokemon Base Set print run, and it is the 44th card in a set of 102 cards. Organizing your cards in this way can make the selling process more efficient and increase your chances of getting the best possible price for your collection.
Sort your cards by rarity
If you’re a collector of Pokemon cards, it’s essential to keep your collection organized for both practical and aesthetic purposes. Sorting your cards by their rarity is one way to ensure you have a well-organized collection. The printed rarity symbols on Pokemon cards can be found near the card and set number and are used to categorize the cards based on their scarcity. It’s worth noting that vintage and modern Pokemon cards follow this system, so the age of your cards won’t affect how you sort them.
However, the rarity symbols on Pokemon cards can be small and challenging to see. In cases like this, you can refer to the chart below to help you sort your cards properly:
Pokemon Card rarity guide
| Symbol | Description | Rarity |
 | Star | Rare |
 | Square | Uncommon |
 | Circle | Common |
Once you’ve sorted your cards by set and rarity, using one of several available digital price guides becomes easier. Having a well-organized collection can also help you showcase your collection to other collectors and enthusiasts, making it easy to find that special card you’ve been searching for.
How to know what your Pokemon Cards are worth
If you are a Pokemon card collector, you might be curious to know what your collection is worth. However, determining the value of your cards is not always straightforward and may require some research. It’s essential to remember that while everyone dreams of selling their collection for a fortune, it’s crucial to be realistic about what you have and its condition.
One of the key factors in determining the value of your Pokemon cards is their condition. The better the condition, the more valuable the card will likely be. It’s essential to assess the condition of your cards carefully, looking for any signs of wear and tear, such as creases, stains, or scratches. A card in mint condition, with no visible wear and tear, will be worth significantly more than a card in poor condition.
Card condition guide
- Near Mint to Mint (NM-Mint): When we say a trading card is in Near Mint to Mint (NM-Mint) condition, we mean that it has very few, if any, noticeable imperfections. This includes nicks on the edges, corner whitening, or light surface scratches. However, it is generally acceptable to have minor imperfections such as superficial scratching, print lines, or clouding for holographic cards. These imperfections may affect the card’s appearance when viewed closely, but they should not significantly detract from its overall condition. Overall, a card in NM-Mint condition should have a pristine appearance and be suitable for collectors looking for cards in excellent condition.
- Light Play (LP): When a card is said to be in Light Play (LP) condition, it may have some minor imperfections visible to the naked eye. These imperfections include nicks, small scuff marks, edge wear, clouding, and/or light scratches. Despite these minor flaws, the card is still considered to be in relatively good condition and is suitable for use in casual gameplay or as part of a collection. However, if you’re a collector looking for cards in pristine condition, it is recommended to look for cards in Near Mint or Mint condition.
- Moderate Play (MP): When a card is classified as Moderate Play (MP), it means that it shows signs of significant wear and tear. This could include diffuse edge wear, which refers to gradually wearing down the card’s edges from repeated shuffling and handling. Additionally, the card may have nicks, scratches, clouding (a foggy or hazy appearance), or scuffs. These imperfections can affect the card’s overall appearance and value to collectors or players.
- Heavy Play (HP): When we refer to Heavy Play (HP), we describe a card that has sustained substantial damage that could render it unplayable in tournaments, even if placed inside a sleeve. This type of damage is typically characterized by significant wear and tear, including creases, dents, scratches, bends, scuffs, ink stains, water damage, clouding, or other damage that could impair its functionality or value. It is important to note that if a card is classified as being in Heavy Play condition, it may not be acceptable for use in certain settings, such as competitive play or trading.
- Damaged (DMG): When we talk about a damaged card in the context of tournament play, it refers to a card that has been altered in such a way that it is highly unlikely to be playable in any serious competitive setting. Typically, a damaged card will exhibit obvious signs of wear and tear, such as creases, dents, scratches, bends, scuffs, tears, inking, water stains, and/or various other types of damage. These defects can make the card difficult or impossible to shuffle or even lead to the card being marked, giving the player an unfair advantage. As such, it is very important to carefully inspect all cards before using them in tournament play and to avoid using any that show signs of damage.
Once you’ve assessed the condition of your cards, you can begin to research their value. There are several resources online that can help you determine the value of your cards, including online marketplaces, price databases, and auction sites. These resources can give you a general idea of what your cards are worth, but keep in mind that prices can vary widely based on factors like rarity, condition, and demand.
You can use a website like TCGplayer to get a rough idea of the current market value of your cards.
TCGplayer offers a comprehensive price guide that covers different Pokemon card sets. You can use the drop-down box to select the set you’re interested in and get an estimate of its current market value. Remember that these prices can fluctuate over time, so it’s a good idea to check back periodically to ensure you’re pricing your cards accurately.
It’s also helpful to be aware of current trends and collector preferences to get the most money for your cards. For example, certain cards may be more in demand because of their rarity, popularity, or because they are part of a particular set. Keeping up with the latest trends and collector preferences can help you determine the best time to sell your cards and maximize their value.
In conclusion, determining the value of your Pokemon cards requires careful assessment of their condition and research into their current market value. By keeping these factors in mind and staying updated with the latest trends, you can get the most money for your beloved collection.
Getting your Pokemon Cards graded
If you’re a collector of Pokemon cards, you may have noticed that some graded cards are selling for significantly higher prices than cards in seemingly excellent condition. This is because several third-party grading services have emerged over the past three decades to authenticate and grade trading and sports cards, and Pokemon cards are no exception.
Grading is the process of evaluating the condition of a card and assigning a grade to it, typically on a scale of 1-10. The higher the grade, the better the condition of the card, and thus, the more valuable it is. Grading also helps to prevent fraud by providing a standardized and objective way to evaluate the condition of a card.
To get your Pokemon cards graded, you’ll need to send them to a reputable grading service. The process typically involves filling out a submission form, selecting the grading tier you want (which can range from a basic evaluation to a detailed analysis), and paying a fee. The grading service will then evaluate your cards and assign them a grade, which will be noted on a label affixed to the cardholder.
It’s worth noting that grading can significantly increase the value of your Pokemon cards, especially if they are rare or in high demand. However, it’s important to choose a reputable grading service and to carefully consider the cost and potential return on investment before submitting your cards for grading.
Pokemon card collectors and investors often seek professional grading companies’ services to determine their cards’ authenticity and quality. The most popular grading services in the industry are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), BGS (Beckett Grading Services), CGC (Certified Guaranty Company), and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation). These companies use a range of factors, including card condition, centering, edges, corners, and surface, to assign a grade to each card. The grading process involves encapsulating the card in a protective case, which helps preserve its condition and prevents tampering.
The cost of grading and authentication services varies depending on the company, the number of graded cards, and the turnaround time. On average, a single card can cost anywhere from $15 to $500 or more to grade, depending on the service level selected. However, the added value of having a graded and authenticated card can be well worth it when it comes time to sell. Graded cards typically sell for higher prices than ungraded cards, and they give potential buyers confidence that the card is genuine and in the condition advertised.
Best practice for sales listings
As someone who has been selling Pokemon cards online for quite some time, I have learned that certain best practices can significantly increase your chances of getting the best possible price for your items.
By taking the time to prepare your sales listings carefully and paying attention to the details, you can consistently outperform other sellers and attract more buyers to your offerings. Whether you are selling individual cards, entire collections, sealed packs, or other types of memorabilia, there are specific strategies you can use to maximize your profits and achieve the best possible outcomes for your sales.
Clean your cards
When selling old vintage Pokemon cards, it is important to keep them clean and free from dirt, dust, and grime. Especially for Pokemon cards, it is common for little dark dirt circles to form on the back of the card over time. To clean your cards, you will need a lightly damp cloth, preferably a microfiber one.
Ensure the cloth is only slightly damp and not soaking wet, as you don’t want to damage the card accidentally. Gently wipe away any dirt or deposits on the card using a circular motion. It is important to distinguish between dirt and damage before wiping the card, as you could further exacerbate any existing damage. If you notice any significant damage, it is best to leave it alone or seek professional help.
Once you are done cleaning, immediately dry the card with a soft and dry cloth. Leaving moisture on the card can eventually warp its surface and cause more damage. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your cards stay in good condition and retain their value over time.
Take excellent photos
One of the most common mistakes sellers make is uploading poor-quality images of their products. It is essential to take the time to ensure that you have adequate lighting and a quality camera available to capture good-quality photos. You don’t necessarily need an expensive camera to take excellent pictures – most modern smartphones come with a camera of good enough quality.
To ensure that your photos are of high quality, it is recommended that you use natural or even added artificial light or flash. Doing so will help bring out the details of the product you photograph and make it look more appealing to potential buyers. However, ensure that the light or flash doesn’t hide any damage or flaws on the product. It is essential to capture the product’s true condition so the buyer knows what they are buying.
Learn SEO
It’s essential to understand that every selling platform is essentially a search engine, just like Google, Amazon, eBay, and other e-commerce platforms, which use algorithms to determine which listings to show in their search results. This is where Search Engine Optimization (SEO) comes into play. It’s a process of optimizing your product listings to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) and, ultimately, drive more traffic to your store.
To improve your SEO, you need to create keyword-rich titles and descriptions relevant to your target audience. This means that you should research the keywords and phrases your potential buyers use to search for products like yours and include them in your listing. However, using them naturally is important, not stuffing your content with keywords, which can harm your rankings.
Moreover, you should also optimize your product images, tags, and categories to help search engines understand the context of your listing better. Doing so can increase your chances of appearing in front of the right audience and getting more clicks and sales. Overall, SEO is a crucial aspect of selling online, and mastering it can help you stay ahead of the competition and grow your business.
Pay attention to fees
One important aspect to keep in mind when selling Pokemon cards, or any other item for that matter, is the fees involved. These fees can significantly eat into your potential selling profits, thereby reducing your overall revenue. Experienced sellers often avoid some of the bigger e-commerce platforms, such as eBay or Mercari, in favor of niche selling on Facebook, once they’ve established a database of fellow collectors.
This allows them to bypass some of the fees associated with the bigger platforms and retain more of their profits. However, as a beginner seller or someone who wants to quickly offload a collection, eBay or Mercari may be your best option. Nonetheless, it’s always important to be cautious about listing upsells, as they can add to the fees and reduce your overall revenue.
Avoid getting scammed
As a seller, there are several ways you may find yourself in trouble. Here’s how to avoid that.
Only accept official payment methods
When selling Pokemon cards for money, it’s important only to accept official payment methods. This means that every legitimate platform or website providing you with an opportunity to sell your cards will have rules and accepted ways a seller can receive payment. It’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines to protect yourself from potential fraudulent activity.
If you frequently flout these rules and regulations, it will likely come back to bite you. Keep in mind that rogue buyers will try to take advantage of sellers by using various schemes and methods to con them out of their cards. Unfortunately, this is not a rare occurrence, and sellers should be vigilant in protecting themselves against these scams.
Some common ways buyers may try to scam sellers include chargebacks, fake checks, and gift card schemes. Chargebacks occur when a buyer disputes a transaction with their bank or credit card company, claiming the payment was unauthorized or fraudulent. Fake checks are, as the name suggests, fraudulent checks that are used to pay for items. Gift card schemes involve using stolen or fraudulent gift cards as a means of payment.
By being aware of these potential scams and only accepting official payment methods, you can ensure that your transactions go smoothly and that your Pokemon cards are sold securely and safely.
Meet in a safe space
When meeting someone for a transaction, choosing a safe location is important. A police station parking lot or a bank lobby are great options, especially when dealing with high-dollar transactions.
These locations are usually well-lit, monitored by security cameras, and provide a sense of security for both parties involved. Additionally, it’s a good idea to let someone you trust know where you’re going and who you’re meeting, just in case.
Cash is king
Cash has always been considered the most reliable and secure method of payment when it comes to in-person transactions. Unlike other payment modes like checks, credit, or debit cards, cash transactions are immune to fraud, chargebacks, or returns. It eliminates the risk of fake checks, falsified returns, swapped cards, or other fraudulent activities commonly associated with electronic payment methods.
Moreover, with cash, there is no need to worry about network outages, technical glitches, or any other issues that may arise with electronic transactions. Therefore, for those who prioritize security and reliability, cash remains the preferred payment method.
Document the process
One of the most important things to keep in mind when selling anything online is to document everything. This means that any conversations, agreements, or transactions with potential buyers should be kept in writing or at least photographed. If it’s not documented, it’s like it never happened.
In addition to keeping a record of all communications, taking great pictures of anything you sell is crucial, including the packaging and shipping process. This can help protect you from fraudulent returns, where buyers might submit bogus returns with fake or replaced cards. By documenting your pre-shipment process in detail, you can prove that you sent the original item in its original condition and prevent any disputes over refunds or final sale prices.
It only takes getting burned once for hundreds of dollars to learn the importance of documenting everything. So, if you’re selling anything online, take the time to document every step of the process and keep records of all agreements and transactions in writing or with photographs. This can help ensure a smooth and successful selling experience without any unwanted surprises.
Be professional
It is important to maintain a professional approach while selling on any platform. It is a known fact that most selling platforms are more inclined towards protecting the buyers’ interests when it comes to resolving disputes.
However, it is equally important to note that appeals and case reviews are often handled by subject matter experts who can make discretionary judgments. To ensure that the ruling is in your favor, it is advisable to present yourself as a consummate professional and conduct all your transactions fairly and transparently. It is noteworthy that eBay/Mercari representatives have scrutinized chat history on several occasions when making a ruling.
Therefore, you must keep all your communication professional and avoid any conversation that may jeopardize your reputation as a seller. Ultimately, doing everything in your power to tip the scales in your favor can make a significant difference in the outcome of any dispute.