Complete Guide to Pokemon Card Rarities and Values
Understanding rarity is fundamental to Pokemon card collecting. Rarity determines how frequently a card appears in packs, which directly impacts its market value. This comprehensive guide explains every modern rarity tier and gives you a realistic picture of what cards at each level are worth in 2026.
How Pokemon Card Rarity Works
Every Pokemon card is printed at a specific rarity level, indicated by a symbol in the bottom corner of the card. Higher rarity cards are printed in smaller quantities, making them harder to pull from packs and more valuable on the secondary market. Modern Pokemon sets typically contain 8-12 rarity tiers, from Common at the bottom to Special Illustration Rare and Hyper Rare at the top. The rarity system has evolved significantly over the years, with new tiers being added to create more excitement and collectibility.
Common & Uncommon (AED 1-5)
Common (circle symbol) and Uncommon (diamond symbol) cards are the most frequently printed and therefore the most affordable. Most commons sell for AED 1-2, while uncommons range from AED 1-5. These cards are essential for deck building and make up the bulk of every set. While individually low in value, some commons and uncommons featuring popular Pokemon or with strong competitive viability can command slightly higher prices.
Rare & Holo Rare (AED 5-20)
Rare cards (star symbol) represent the first meaningful value tier. Standard rares sell for AED 5-10, while Holo Rares — featuring a holographic pattern on the artwork — range from AED 5-20. Holo Rares of popular Pokemon like Charizard, Pikachu, or Mewtwo can push toward the higher end. These cards are common enough to be accessible but scarce enough to feel rewarding when pulled from packs.
Double Rare & Ultra Rare (AED 15-80)
Double Rare cards include Pokemon ex — powerful cards with enhanced artwork that extends slightly beyond the standard card border. Ultra Rares feature full-art designs where the artwork fills the entire card. These are the bread-and-butter chase cards of modern sets, with prices ranging from AED 15-80 depending on the Pokemon and set popularity. Pokemon ex cards of fan favourites consistently hold value well.
Illustration Rare (AED 30-150)
Illustration Rares (IRs) feature unique artistic interpretations by guest illustrators. These cards showcase Pokemon in creative scenes and styles that differ from standard card art. IRs are highly collectible due to their artistic merit and relative scarcity. Prices range from AED 30-150, with popular Pokemon IRs commanding premium prices. These cards are often the most visually striking cards in a binder collection.
Special Illustration Rare (AED 80-800+)
Special Illustration Rares (SIRs) are the crown jewels of modern Pokemon collecting. These cards feature dramatic, full-art scenes with the highest production quality. SIRs are extremely difficult to pull from packs — roughly 1 in 200+ packs. Prices range from AED 80 for less popular Pokemon to AED 800+ for chase cards like Umbreon or Charizard SIRs. These are the cards that drive set popularity and represent the top tier of modern Pokemon card value.
Secret Rare & Hyper Rare (AED 50-500+)
Secret Rares have card numbers exceeding the official set count (e.g., 201/198). Hyper Rares feature distinctive gold texturing and are among the rarest pulls in any set. These ultra-premium cards range from AED 50-500+ depending on the Pokemon and rarity tier. Gold Hyper Rare cards are particularly sought after by collectors who want the absolute rarest versions of their favourite cards.