Trading cards turn up in binders, shoeboxes and job lots. Most are common cards worth very little, but a single rare card can be worth more than the rest of the collection put together.
What makes a card valuable
- Rarity: the rarity symbol (often near the card number) and special finishes such as holo, full art, secret rare and alternate art.
- Edition and print: early print runs matter. For older Pokémon cards, look for a "1st Edition" stamp; for Yu-Gi-Oh!, "1st Edition" text under the artwork.
- Popularity: favourite characters and cards that are strong in the game sell better.
- Language and set: the same card can be worth different amounts in different languages and printings, so note the set symbol and number.
Condition is everything
Check the corners, edges, surface scratches and centring (how evenly the border sits around the picture). Creases and water damage take most of the value away. Cards in near-mint condition sell for much more than played ones, so describe condition honestly and photograph the front and the back.
Grading
Professional grading companies examine a card and seal it in a case with a grade. It costs money and takes time, so it's usually only worth it for cards that are both valuable and in excellent condition. For most cards, a clear photo and an honest description are enough.
Spotting fakes
- Compare with a card you know is genuine: the font, colours and holo pattern should match.
- Fake cards often feel thinner or glossier, and the back colours can look off.
- Be wary of binders full of shiny "rare" cards at a low price.
Sorting a bulk collection
Sort first by game, then by set (the symbol and number on each card), then by rarity. Pull out anything holo, full art or marked as rare, and check those individually. The rest can be sold as bulk lots, which collectors and players buy to complete sets.
Selling
Valuable cards sell best individually, in a sleeve and top loader, posted in a tracked or signed-for service. Common cards can go as bulk lots by game or set. Before pricing, check current listings and eBay's Sold items filter for the same card, set and condition.