Some Pokémon sets get all the hype — but what about the ones that fly under the radar? In this guide, we’re counting down the 10 most underrated Pokémon card sets that offer incredible art, value, and chase potential but are often overlooked by collectors.
Whether you’re investing, building a binder, or looking for unique sealed product, these hidden gem Pokémon sets deserve a second look.
If you’ve pulled a shiny Charizard or rediscovered your childhood binder, you’re probably asking: is grading Pokémon cards worth it? In 2025, grading can dramatically boost a card’s value—but it also costs time and money.
In this guide, we’ll help you decide when grading makes sense, what it costs, and how to know if your card is grading-worthy or better left raw.
What Is Pokémon Card Grading?
Grading is the process of sending a card to a professional company like PSA, CGC, or Beckett, where it is:
Authenticated
Evaluated for condition (centering, edges, surface, corners)
The $500 Pokémon Card That Was Almost Thrown Away | Collector’s Tale
Ever wonder if that old stack of Pokémon cards in your attic could be worth something? You’re not alone. In this wild true story, we’ll tell you how a $500 Pokémon card was almost thrown away by accident—and what made it so valuable.
Whether you’re a casual fan or aspiring collector, this post reveals what to look for, how to evaluate card worth, and how rare Pokémon cards can sneak by unnoticed.
How It Happened: The $500 Card Almost Lost
It all started with a spring clean. A reader messaged us saying they were helping their younger sibling declutter some old toys. A shoebox filled with beat-up cards was minutes from going into the recycling bin when one card caught their eye.
It looked different. The borders were thinner, the back was slightly darker, and it had a strange holofoil effect they hadn’t seen in years.
That card turned out to be a Shadowless Base Set Machamp (1st Edition). Lightly played, valued at $500 in today’s market.
“I almost tossed it. Something just told me to check one more time. I’m so glad I did.”
Top 5 Pokémon Booster Boxes to Buy in 2025 (Expert Picks)
Wondering which Pokémon booster boxes to buy in 2025? With so many exciting sets released each year, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one—whether you’re a collector, investor, or casual fan. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 booster boxes worth buying based on pull rates, set popularity, artwork, long-term value, and more.
Our Top 5 Pokémon Booster Boxes of 2025
1. 151 Japanese Booster Box (High Demand & Nostalgia)
This set pays tribute to the original 151 Pokémon, making it a must-have for fans of Gen 1.
Japanese vs English Pokémon Cards: Key Differences & Buyer Guide
When buying Pokémon cards, many collectors and players ask: Should I get Japanese or English cards? Both have their unique appeal, but they differ in print quality, rarity, artwork, pricing, and availability. In this guide, we’ll compare Japanese vs English Pokémon cards across multiple factors to help you make the best choice for your collection or deck.
Key Differences Between Japanese and English Cards
1. Print Quality
Japanese cards are widely known for their superior print quality. This includes:
Sharper colors and cleaner lines
Smoother card surfaces
Tighter centering
Collectors often praise the consistent quality control in Japan, which results in fewer printing defects.
“For grading purposes, Japanese cards usually score higher on centering and print quality.”
What’s Inside a Pokémon Booster Pack? Pull Rates & Card Types
Introduction
Curious about what’s inside a Pokémon booster pack? Whether you’re a new collector or returning to the Trading Card Game (TCG) after years away, understanding the contents and pull rates of booster packs is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down what you can expect to find in each pack, the types of cards included, and your odds of pulling rare or ultra-rare cards.
