Are any Pokémon cards fake?
Yes, some Pokémon cards are fake, and it’s essential to be aware of this when buying, selling, or trading cards to avoid copyright infringement and fraud. The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) has been a popular hobby for decades, but the rise of counterfeit cards has become a significant issue, with some fake cards being extremely difficult to distinguish from authentic ones.
Understanding Fake Pokémon Cards
Fake Pokémon cards can appear real under one or more tests, and some real Pokémon cards have printing inconsistencies that can make them appear fake. It’s crucial to use a combination of tests, along with your best judgment, whenever you have reason to believe a card could be fake.
FAQs
1. Are fake Pokémon cards allowed?
No, buying, selling, or distributing fake Pokémon cards is considered copyright infringement and is a violation of intellectual property laws.
2. Does TCGplayer sell fake cards?
No, TCGplayer has a Buyer Safeguard that protects buyers from counterfeit cards, and if you believe you have received a counterfeit card from an order through TCGplayer, you can contact their dedicated customer service team.
3. Can Pokémon cards be fake on Amazon?
Yes, there are Chinese sellers on Amazon that sell fake Pokémon cards, so it’s essential to check the blue coloring on the back of the cards and be wary of cards with HP above 250.
4. Are McDonald’s Pokémon cards real?
Yes, McDonald’s Pokémon cards are real and have been produced in collaboration with The Pokémon Company since 2001, featuring unique symbols and being highly desired by collectors.
5. Are McDonald’s Pokémon cards worth collecting?
Yes, McDonald’s Pokémon cards have value due to their rarity and nostalgic appeal, making them a great addition to any Pokémon collection.
6. How long is McDonald’s giving Pokémon cards?
McDonald’s has been giving away Pokémon cards with their Happy Meals through October 16, 2023, as part of a promotion that includes a special 4-card Pokémon TCG booster pack and a game coin.
7. How can I tell if a Pokémon card is real?
A quick way to test if your Pokémon card is real or fake is to take a close look at the edge of the card, as real Pokémon cards have a very thin sheet of black between the cardboard.
8. What happens if you buy fake Pokémon cards?
Unfortunately, fake Pokémon cards are not worth anything and are also illegal to use in tournaments, making them a huge waste of cash.
9. Who bought a fake Pokémon card?
Logan Paul, a known Pokémon card collector, recently found out he spent millions on fake card sets.
10. Is it a crime to sell fake Pokémon cards?
Yes, buying, selling, or distributing fake Pokémon cards is considered copyright infringement and is a violation of intellectual property laws.
11. Is TCG a safe place to buy cards?
Yes, TCGplayer uses internet standard 128-bit secure encryption technology for all checkout pages, making it a safe place to buy cards.
12. Can you get banned from TCGplayer?
Yes, if you choose a seller name that is offensive, vulgar, or infringes someone’s intellectual property rights, you will be asked to choose a new name or have your account suspended.
13. Are fake Pokémon cards obvious?
Not always, but fake Pokémon cards often have a different color or feel than real cards, with the text box and picture box being foil on fake cards.
14. What are illegal Pokémon cards?
Some Pokémon cards, such as Milotic from XY – Flashfire and Shaymin-EX from XY – Roaring Skies, have been added to the Pokémon TCG Expanded Format’s Banned List.
15. Are gold foil Pokémon cards real?
Yes, 24k Gold Plated Pokémon Cards have been released by The Pokémon Company for celebrations and promotional events, but they are not common and are rather difficult to find.