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Are Pokémon Cards with Purple Back Fake? Unveiling the Truth

No, Pokémon cards with purple backs are not inherently fake. The color of the card back, while often a factor in identifying counterfeits, isn’t the sole determinant. The back of genuine Pokémon cards has shifted subtly in color over the years due to printing variations and regional differences. A purple hue could indicate a fake, but it’s crucial to consider other factors like card stock, print quality, fonts, and overall details before declaring it counterfeit. This article dives deep into the world of Pokémon card authentication, helping you understand the nuances of card backs and providing you with the knowledge to spot potential fakes.

Understanding Pokémon Card Back Colors

The standard Pokémon card back features a complex design including a Poké Ball, the word “Pokémon”, and the iconic pocket monster silhouettes. The color of this design should be a vibrant blue, but inconsistencies can occur. The shade can vary slightly between different print runs, expansions, and even due to differences in printing locations. A genuine card might have a back that appears more bluish or, in some cases, exhibit a slight purplish tint compared to another. It’s these slight variations that counterfeiters attempt to replicate, but they often fall short, creating a significantly different and clearly purple back.

However, jumping to conclusions based solely on color is a mistake. A card with a slightly purple hue could still be real. This emphasizes the necessity of conducting a thorough inspection of the card’s features.

Key Indicators of Fake Pokémon Cards

While a purple-tinged back might raise suspicion, focus on these more reliable indicators to identify a fake:

Card Stock Quality: Genuine Pokémon cards are printed on high-quality card stock that feels sturdy and has a specific weight. Fake cards often use thin, flimsy paper that feels cheap to the touch. Test the card’s stiffness. Real cards hold their shape well.
Print Quality: Examine the sharpness and clarity of the images, text, and borders. Counterfeit cards frequently have blurry or pixelated graphics, and colors can be dull or inaccurate. Look for smooth lines and vibrant colours in an authentic card.
Font and Text Errors: Counterfeiters often struggle to replicate the exact fonts used on genuine cards. Look for inconsistencies in font size, spacing, and style. Pay close attention to the HP values, attack descriptions, and card names. Misspellings are also a major red flag.
Holofoil Pattern: Holographic cards are notoriously difficult to fake perfectly. Scrutinize the holofoil pattern for authenticity. Fake holofoils often appear flat, grainy, or have an incorrect pattern. Genuine holofoils exhibit depth and a unique reflective quality.
Energy Symbols and Set Symbols: Examine the accuracy of the energy symbols and set symbols. Counterfeit cards may have poorly rendered symbols, incorrect colors, or even misaligned placements. Compare these symbols to images of genuine cards from the same set.
Rarity Symbols: Check the rarity symbol, located in the bottom right corner of the card. Common cards have a circle, uncommon cards have a diamond, and rare cards have a star. Ultra-rare cards often have a foil star or other special designation. Fake cards frequently get these wrong.
Border Thickness: The borders of a Pokémon card are consistently thick and even. Counterfeit cards may have borders that are too thin, too thick, or uneven.
Light Test: Hold the card up to a bright light. Genuine Pokémon cards should allow only a minimal amount of light to pass through. Fake cards made with thinner card stock will allow significantly more light through.
Smell Test (Yes, Really!): Genuine Pokémon cards have a distinct smell due to the inks and printing process. Fake cards often have a chemical or plastic-like odor.
Price Too Good to Be True: Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Counterfeiters often sell fake cards at significantly lower prices to lure in unsuspecting buyers.

Why the “Purple Back” Myth?

The “purple back” myth likely stems from a few factors:

Poor Quality Counterfeits: Early fake Pokémon cards often had distinctly purple backs due to the counterfeiters’ inability to accurately replicate the correct blue hue. These initial, low-quality fakes cemented the association between purple backs and fake cards in the minds of many collectors.
Perception and Lighting: The way our eyes perceive color can be influenced by lighting conditions. Under certain lighting, a genuine card back might appear to have a slightly more purple hue than it actually does.
Variations in Print Runs: As mentioned earlier, slight variations in printing processes can lead to subtle color differences in genuine card backs. Some genuine cards might have a back that leans slightly more towards purple than others.

It is essential to remember that counterfeiters are constantly improving their techniques, and high-quality fakes can be incredibly difficult to spot. Therefore, relying solely on the color of the card back is insufficient for authentication.

How to Ensure Authenticity

The best way to ensure the authenticity of your Pokémon cards is to:

Buy from reputable sources: Purchase cards from established retailers, certified card dealers, or trusted online marketplaces with strong seller verification processes.
Compare to known authentic cards: If you’re unsure about a card’s authenticity, compare it to a known genuine card from the same set. Pay close attention to the details mentioned earlier.
Seek expert opinions: If you’re still uncertain, consult with experienced Pokémon card collectors or professional authentication services. These experts have the knowledge and tools to accurately assess the authenticity of your cards.
Consider card grading: Professional grading services like PSA, Beckett, and CGC authenticate, grade, and encapsulate Pokémon cards. A graded card provides assurance of its authenticity and condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are all vintage Pokémon cards valuable?

Not all vintage Pokémon cards are valuable. Value depends on rarity, condition, set, and popularity. Certain First Edition cards and holographic cards are highly sought after, while common cards are typically worth less.

2. How can I tell if a holographic Pokémon card is fake?

Examine the holofoil pattern closely. Fake holofoils often appear flat, grainy, or have an incorrect pattern. Genuine holofoils exhibit depth and a unique reflective quality. Also, check the print quality and compare it to images of authentic cards.

3. What is the most valuable Pokémon card ever sold?

The most valuable Pokémon card ever sold is typically considered to be the Pikachu Illustrator card. Its high value is because of its rarity and unique history.

4. Can sunlight damage my Pokémon cards?

Yes, sunlight can damage Pokémon cards by fading the colors and deteriorating the card stock. It’s best to store them in a dark, cool, and dry place, away from direct sunlight.

5. What is the best way to store my Pokémon cards?

The best way to store Pokémon cards is in acid-free sleeves and binders or in protective top loaders. This prevents scratches, bends, and other damage.

6. What does “First Edition” mean on a Pokémon card?

“First Edition” indicates that the card was part of the initial print run of a particular set. These cards are usually more valuable than subsequent printings. They are identified by a “First Edition” stamp on the lower left of the card.

7. Are Pokémon cards still being printed?

Yes, Pokémon cards are still being printed, with new sets released regularly.

8. What are some common mistakes made when buying Pokémon cards online?

Common mistakes include not checking the seller’s feedback, failing to inspect photos carefully, and not verifying the card’s authenticity before purchasing.

9. How does card grading work?

Card grading involves submitting your cards to a professional grading service like PSA or Beckett. They assess the card’s condition and authenticity, assigning a grade based on their findings. The card is then encapsulated in a tamper-proof case.

10. Is it worth getting my Pokémon cards graded?

Whether it’s worth grading your Pokémon cards depends on their value, condition, and your goals. Grading can increase the value and protect the card, but it also involves fees.

11. What is the difference between a “base set” and an “expansion set”?

The “base set” is the first set of Pokémon cards released, while “expansion sets” are subsequent sets that introduce new Pokémon, trainers, and mechanics.

12. What does “Shadowless” mean on a Pokémon card?

“Shadowless” refers to a variation of the Base Set cards where there is no drop shadow behind the artwork box. These cards are rarer and more valuable than the shadowed versions.

13. How do I clean my Pokémon cards without damaging them?

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away any dust or fingerprints. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the card’s surface.

14. What are “Promo” Pokémon cards?

“Promo” cards are special cards that are not included in regular booster packs. They are often given away as promotional items at events or with certain products.

15. Where can I find reliable information about Pokémon card values?

Reliable sources include online price guides like TCGplayer and PriceCharting, as well as auction sites like eBay (filtering by completed sales). However, always verify information across multiple sources.

Are Pokémon cards with purple back fake?