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Protect It

Put the card into a penny sleeve immediately. For additional protection, place it in a top loader or semi-rigid card saver.

Identify It

Find the card name and card number printed on the card. Use a card lookup service, such as TCGplayer or Collectr, to find the exact version you pulled.

Tip: Cards with the same character can have very different values, so make sure the artwork, set, and card number match.

Check Its Value

Check current market information using pricing resources such as TCGplayer or Collectr.

Don’t rely on the first price you see. Make sure you’re comparing the exact same card and version in similar condition.

Check the Condition

Condition can make a big difference in value. Look closely at:

• Centering
• Corners
• Edges
• Surface scratches
• Whitening
• Print lines
• Dents or creases

Should You Grade It?

Professional grading can sometimes increase a card’s value, but not every card should be graded.

Companies such as PSA, CGC, and Beckett offer grading services. Compare the card’s raw value, expected grade, graded value, and grading costs before deciding.

Remember: Grading can be expensive, and grading is ultimately subjective. A card you expect to receive a high grade may receive a lower one.

Keep It or Sell It?

A valuable card doesn’t have to be sold. You may decide to keep it because you love the card, the Pokémon, the artwork, or simply want it in your collection.

If you’d rather turn the card into cash, there are several ways to sell it. The right option depends on the card’s value and how much time and effort you want to spend.