Pokemon cards are a beloved pastime for many people around the world. Whether you’re a collector, trader, or just a fan, you know that the value of a card can vary greatly depending on its rarity and condition. One of the most sought-after types of Pokemon cards is the first edition. But how can you tell if a card is a first edition? In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to identify first edition Pokemon cards.
What are First Edition Pokemon Cards?
First edition Pokemon cards are the very first print run of a specific card. These cards are often considered rare and valuable because they were only produced for a short period of time before being replaced by subsequent print runs. The first edition cards were printed with a special symbol on the card that indicates their rarity.
Identifying First Edition Pokemon Cards
There are a few things you can look for when trying to identify first edition Pokemon cards. Here are some of the most common ways to determine if a card is a first edition:
Look for the First Edition Symbol
The most obvious way to identify a first edition Pokemon card is to look for the first edition symbol on the card. This symbol is a small circle located on the left side of the card, just below the Pokemon’s picture. It will say “First Edition” in the circle, with a small number “1” underneath it.
Check the Card Number
In addition to the first edition symbol, you can also look at the card number to determine if it’s a first edition. First edition cards will have a small “Edition 1” or “1st Edition” label located just after the card number. For example, if the card number is “47/102”, a first edition card will have the label “1st Edition” right after the number.
Look for Shadowless Cards
Another way to identify first edition Pokemon cards is to look for shadowless cards. These cards were printed without the shadow that appears around the Pokemon’s picture on later print runs. Shadowless cards are often considered more valuable than their shadowed counterparts, and many of the first edition cards were printed without shadows.
Conclusion
In summary, identifying first edition Pokemon cards is relatively simple if you know what to look for. The first edition symbol, card number, and shadowless print are all ways to determine if a card is a first edition. Keep in mind that the value of a first edition card can vary greatly depending on its condition and rarity, so it’s important to do your research before buying or selling. By following these tips, you can start building your collection of rare and valuable first edition Pokemon cards.
