Collecting

How much is a Pokémon card worth? How to work out its value (Japanese too)

Updated on 15/10/2026

Four SAR cards from our stock — Some SARs from our stock: Special Art Rares are usually the most expensive cards in a set.

1. Rarity

In modern sets the special illustrations (SAR), the golds (UR, MUR) and the ARs of the most loved Pokémon are worth the most. To recognise them read the guide to rarities.

2. The Pokémon and the artwork

At the same rarity, a Charizard, a Pikachu or an Eevee is worth more than a little-known Pokémon. The artwork matters a lot too: some ARs cost more than the SARs from the same set because they're more beautiful, and certain illustrators have dedicated collectors (see the illustrator pages).

Charizard and Pikachu in our catalogue

Pikachu

173/165

39,99 €1 pcs

Pikachu ex

126/103

74,99 €3 pcs

Sold out

Charizard

187/184

34,99 €0 pcs

Sold out

Pikachu

073/071

64,99 €0 pcs

3. Condition

A perfect card (NM/Mint) is worth much more than one with scratches, worn corners or creases: the full scale, with photos, is in the guide to card condition. That's why storage matters: see how to store your cards.

4. Language

Japanese cards often cost less than English versions of the same card, but not always. It depends on how many were printed and how sought after they are: read Japanese or English.

5. Grading

A card graded 10 can be worth many times the same card ungraded. See the guide to grading.

The most expensive Japanese cards in our catalogue

Frequently asked questions

Are Japanese cards worth less?+

They often cost less than the same cards in English because more are printed, but it's not a rule: some Japanese cards are more sought after.

Where can I see a card's real value?+

In the prices of completed sales, not listing prices: those are what the card was actually bought for.

Can a common card be worth a lot?+

Rarely in modern sets. Value concentrates in SARs, gold cards and ARs of the most loved Pokémon.