Understanding Pokemon card rarity symbols is essential for every collector, whether you're evaluating your childhood collection or hunting for valuable cards at yard sales. This guide covers every rarity symbol used in Pokemon TCG history, helping you instantly identify card values and spot hidden treasures.
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Basic Rarity Symbols Explained
The Three Core Symbols
Circle - Common
Most frequently found cards. 5-6 per booster pack. Generally worth $0.05-$0.25, though vintage commons can reach $1-5.
Diamond - Uncommon
Moderately rare cards. 3-4 per booster pack. Typically worth $0.10-$1, with popular Pokemon reaching $2-10.
Star - Rare
Hardest to find base rarity. 1 per booster pack. Values range from $0.50 to $100+ depending on the Pokemon and condition.
💡 Pro Tip: Check the Card Number
If a card's number exceeds the set total (e.g., 165/162), it's a Secret Rare regardless of the symbol. These are the most valuable modern cards, often worth $20-500+.
Modern Pokemon Card Rarities (2020-2025)
Holo Rare ★H
Holographic/foil pattern on the Pokemon artwork. Found in 1 in 3 packs.
Value: $1-20
V Cards ★V
Full-art Pokemon V cards with textured foiling. 1 in 4 packs.
Value: $2-30
VMAX ★VMAX
Gigantic Pokemon with rainbow or gold foiling. 1 in 8-10 packs.
Value: $10-80
VSTAR ★VSTAR
Special mechanic cards with unique patterns. 1 in 10-12 packs.
Value: $5-50
Ultra Rare Categories
- Rainbow Rare: Full rainbow foil treatment - 1 in 30-40 packs ($30-200)
- Gold Secret Rare: Solid gold coloring - 1 in 50-60 packs ($50-300)
- Alternate Art: Unique artwork variants - 1 in 20-30 packs ($40-500)
- Special Illustration Rare: Full-art scenes - 1 in 15-20 packs ($20-150)
Rarity to Value Guide
| Rarity | Pull Rate | Typical Value | Max Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common ● | 5-6 per pack | $0.05-0.25 | $5 |
| Uncommon ♦ | 3-4 per pack | $0.10-1 | $10 |
| Rare ★ | 1 per pack | $0.50-5 | $100 |
| Holo Rare ★H | 1 in 3 packs | $1-20 | $200 |
| Ultra Rare | 1 in 6-10 packs | $5-50 | $500 |
| Secret Rare | 1 in 20-50 packs | $20-200 | $5,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Start Identifying Valuable Cards Today
Now that you understand Pokemon card rarity symbols, you're ready to evaluate any collection. Remember that condition matters as much as rarity - a Near Mint common can be worth more than a damaged rare. Use this guide alongside our card value scanner to get instant price checks.