Is My card A Secret rare?

Is My Card a Secret Rare? A Comprehensive Guide

As a Pokémon trader, collector, or enthusiast, understanding the rarity of your cards is essential in determining their value and potential. Among the numerous rarity types, Secret rare cards are particularly coveted by collectors and traders. In this article, we will delve into the world of Secret Rare cards, exploring what makes them special and providing a step-by-step guide on identifying whether your card is a Secret rare.

What is a Secret Rare?

A Secret Rare card is a rare version of a Pokémon card that has a high collector’s number, typically in the range of 99/100 to 100/100. These cards are less common than other rare cards and possess unique characteristics that set them apart. Secret Rare cards were first introduced in the Japanese Pokémon Trading Card Game (PTCG) in the early 2000s and have since gained popularity worldwide.

How to Identify a Secret Rare Card

To determine whether your card is a Secret rare, follow these simple steps:

  • Check the collector number: Secret Rare cards have a higher collector number, typically in the range of 99/100 to 100/100.
  • Look for the rarity symbol: Secret Rare cards often display a black star symbol () or "SH" prefix, indicating their exclusivity.
  • Verify the card condition: Secret Rare cards, like other rare cards, have a higher value when in pristine condition. Check for any defects, creases, or wear on the card.
  • Research the card rarity: Consult online resources, such as Pokebeach or TCGplayer, to verify the card rarity and its value.

Types of Secret Rare Cards

There are several sub-varieties of Secret Rare cards:

Illustration Rares (IR): These cards feature an illustration of the Pokémon on the card itself, without a texture.
Full Art Rares (FAR): These cards have an additional illustration on the card, often incorporating the Pokémon’s habitat or environment.
Triple Rares (TR): These cards have three rarity symbols (, , and SH**) and are extremely rare, with only a few copies in existence.

Value of Secret Rare Cards

The value of Secret Rare cards can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the card’s condition, rarity, and demand. The 1999 Charizard card, for instance, is considered the "Holy Grail" of Pokémon cards and sold for $1 million in 2017.

Logan Paul’s Charizard

For those who may not know, celebrity Logan Paul purchased a 2019 PSA 10 Charizard card for $1 million only to later consider destroying it due to the immense pressure and responsibility that comes with owning such a valuable card.

Value List of Secret Rare Cards

While the value of Secret Rare cards fluctuates, here is a rough guide to their value:

Card NameConditionValue (approx.)
1999 CharizardPSA 10$1,000,000
Pikachu IllustratorPSA 10$100,000
Articuno IllustratorPSA 10$50,000
Zapdos IllustratorPSA 10$20,000

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the rarity of your Pokémon cards is crucial for accurately valuing and trading them. As a Secret Rare card collector or enthusiast, it is essential to distinguish between the various types of rarity symbols and card conditions. By researching and verifying the card’s collector number, rarity symbol, and card condition, you can determine whether your card is a Secret rare and ensure its value is accurately reflected. Always keep in mind that rarity and value are not the only determining factors in the world of Pokémon card trading, and other factors such as availability, demand, and condition also play a crucial role.

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