Preparing Pokémon cards to sell

A clear card list and useful photographs make a collection easier to assess. Keep ungraded singles, graded cards and unsorted bulk separate, then record enough detail to identify each part of your enquiry.

List singles by their exact printing

Record the name, language, set, full card number, variant, condition and quantity. Separate copies with different finishes or different condition. Use our variant guide if two cards look similar but have different foil patterns or stamps.

For a catalogue submission, arrange the cards in the same order as the submitted list and keep that order when packing. Group the quantity for each line together, and place a clearly written or printed copy of the list with the cards. Do not apply labels directly to a card.

Take photographs that show condition

Photograph the front and back in clear light, with the complete edges visible. Add close-ups of any damage and another angle where glare hides the surface. Use photographs of your own cards. Stock artwork can identify a design but cannot show the condition of your copy.

See the condition guide for the details to inspect. If you are unsure, describe the issue and include a photograph instead of assuming a higher condition.

Record graded cards separately

Include the grading company, numerical grade, grade description and certificate number. Send clear front and back photographs of the slab, with the certificate number readable. Show any significant holder marks or damage. Graded cards require an individual quote rather than an ungraded condition price.

Front of Pikachu 127/414 Start Deck 100 in its PSA 10 GEM MT slab, certificate 160806679. — A useful graded-card submission shows the whole slab on both sides, with the certificate number readable. Both photographs here show PSA certificate 160806679. Select a photograph for a closer look.

Back of the exact Pikachu Start Deck 100 PSA slab, showing certificate 160806679. — A useful graded-card submission shows the whole slab on both sides, with the certificate number readable. Both photographs here show PSA certificate 160806679. Select a photograph for a closer look.

Keep bulk separate from individually listed cards

State the approximate quantity and describe the languages, card types and overall condition in the bulk. If using a weight estimate, report the weight of the cards separately from sleeves, boxes and other packaging. Weight alone does not establish an exact card count, so confirm the counting method before agreeing a bulk offer.

Confirm the next step before posting

Send your list and photographs through an agreed enquiry route and wait for the receiving details and next steps before dispatching the cards. Keep a copy of the list for your own records. Specific purchasing arrangements should be confirmed with your enquiry.

Contact The Collector’s Dex about your cards or explore our collecting guides.