Insider Tips from the CEO of Europe’s Largest Trading Card Show on How to Collect Pokemon Cards

[London, UK – January 2025] – What began as a simple conversation at a family dinner has turned into Europe’s largest trading card event, all thanks to Harry Reynolds. In just three short years, he has transformed the London Card Show (LCS) from a small, niche gathering of just 40 people, into a global phenomenon, attracting more than 7,000 attendees over the weekend from across the world. On 8th & 9th February 2025, the 15th edition of the London Card Show will take place at Sandown Park Racecourse, Surrey, marking its biggest event yet.

From its humble beginnings in 2021, when the first event hosted just 10 tables and few attendees, Harry, an ace collector himself, has grown the London Card Show into a must-visit event for the UK's trading cards and collectibles community. The show caters to all interests, including sports like Football, Basketball, NBA, F1 and Cricket along with Anime like Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, Disney Lorcana as well as other pop culture favourites. Suitable for all ages, the London Card Show is a haven for collectors, traders, and enthusiasts. 

Anime’s explosive popularity in the UK, as seen with shows like Pokémon, Attack on Titan, My Hero Academia, and Demon Slayer, has fuelled a surge in interest across multiple industries, including trading cards. With streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, and YouTube making anime more accessible to a wider audience, the demand for anime-related products has soared (1). According to the NPD Group, sales of anime merchandise, including trading cards and collectibles, have experienced double-digit growth across the UK in recent years (2).

One of the most fascinating trends is the rise in young people investing in trading cards and collectibles. Research by Investec Wealth and Investment reveals that one in 10 adults now invest in luxury goods, with cards, comics, and collectibles ranking third among the most popular investment categories. Collectibles, including limited edition items like Pokémon cards, vinyl records, and classic trainers, appeal to young investors looking to make future returns on relatively low-cost investments (3)

"Cards and collectibles offer a more affordable entry point for younger investors compared to traditional luxury items like art or watches," says Harry Reynolds, CEO of the London Card Show. "It's become more than just a hobby – it’s now an investment opportunity that people of all ages are exploring."

Trading card collecting is seeing a big high in 2025, with fans of Pokémon, sports cards, and other TCGs joining the community in record numbers. For those new to the hobby or looking to refine their skills, Harry Reynolds shares essential insights on how to get started, avoid common mistakes, and ensure your collection is both valuable and authentic. 2025 is an exciting time to start collecting cards, with the market growing and rare cards fetching record prices. With the right strategy and a focus on long-term growth, collectors can maximise their experience.

5 Tips for People Who Want to Start Collecting Pokémon Cards 

1. Understand the Different Types of Pokémon Cards

Pokémon cards come in many varieties, including common, uncommon, rare, holo, and full-art cards. Start with the basics, like commons and uncommons, then gradually expand your collection. Then there are special cards like EX, GX, V, and VSTAR. Understanding the different types will help you focus on what interests you the most.

2. Focus on First Editions and Rare Cards

First Edition Pokémon cards are some of the most valuable in the hobby. These were part of the earliest print runs of each set, and they often come with a First Edition stamp. For example: Look out for First Edition and Shadowless cards, particularly from the Base Set (1999), which tend to hold the most value. A First Edition Charizard can sell for six figures. 

3. Learn How to Spot Fake Pokémon Cards

Unfortunately, the rise of counterfeit cards is an issue in the Pokémon collecting world. Knowing how to spot a fake is essential. Check the card’s thickness, texture, and holographic elements. Fake cards may feel flimsy or have blurry text and artwork. 

4. Start with Modern Sets Before Diving Into Vintage

Vintage cards can be expensive and harder to find, so it’s a good idea to start with modern sets like Sword & Shield or Scarlet & Violet before moving into older, rarer cards. Modern sets are widely available and much cheaper, making them perfect for beginners. 

You can find booster packs, elite trainer boxes, and single cards at the London Card Show, allowing you to start your collection without breaking the bank.

5. Have Your Cards Graded for Long-Term Value

If you pull a rare card or find one that’s in excellent condition, consider having it graded by a professional service like Ace, CGC, PSA, or BGS. Grading will give you a verified condition score, which can significantly boost the card's value.

Grading services like Ace are often available at big events like the London Card Show, where you can submit your cards on-site. A graded card can go from being worth a few hundred pounds to thousands if it scores high enough, so it’s a smart move for serious collectors.

5 Tips to Check if Your TCG Card is Genuine 

1. Examine the Card’s Thickness and Texture

Genuine TCG cards, especially Pokémon cards, have a specific feel—they’re neither too thick nor too flimsy. If the card feels unusually thick or too thin compared to others in your collection, it could be fake. Rub your finger over the surface; authentic cards have a consistent texture. 

2. Inspect the Holographic Features

For holographic Pokémon cards, the shine and pattern should be smooth and even across the card. Fake holographic cards often have uneven, dull, or overly shiny surfaces. Pay attention to the alignment and consistency of the holographic layer. 

3. Check the Font and Spacing

Look closely at the text on the card. Legitimate Pokémon cards have sharp, clear text, with consistent font and spacing. Counterfeit cards often have blurry or pixelated text, incorrect fonts, or uneven spacing. Compare it with another card from the same set to spot differences. 

4. Shine a Light on It

Genuine Pokémon cards are printed on high-quality stock with a distinct layering. Holding the card up to a light can reveal whether it’s authentic. When held to light, a real card won’t let too much light through. Fake cards may appear translucent or let too much light through due to cheap printing methods. 

5. Verify with a Professional

Sometimes, it’s best to get expert confirmation. If you’re unsure, having the card professionally graded and authenticated is the safest route. Professional grading companies like CGC, PSA, and BGS use specialised tools and techniques to confirm authenticity. 

5 Tips on How to Tell if a Pokémon Card is First Edition 

1. Look for the First Edition Stamp

The easiest way to identify a First Edition Pokémon card is by spotting the small “First Edition” stamp on the card, usually located on the lower left side of the artwork. This stamp is a black circle with the number “1” inside, next to the words "Edition." If it’s missing, the card is likely from a different print run. 

2. Check the Year of Release

First Edition cards are only printed during the very first production run of a set. Most First Edition Pokémon cards are from the Base Set (1999), but this also applies to the early expansions like Jungle or Fossil. Make sure to check the copyright year on the bottom of the card to confirm its age.

3. Inspect the Shadowing

First Edition Base Set cards have a “shadowless” border, meaning the card image doesn’t have the shadow that later versions of the Base Set do. If the card has a shadow around the border of the image, it’s from a later print run. At the London Card Show, you can see examples of both shadowless and shadowed versions to help you compare.

4. Verify the Card’s Numbering

In First Edition sets, the numbering of the cards is often aligned differently than later prints. For example, in the Base Set, 1st Edition cards are numbered out of 102. Make sure the card’s number fits within the known range of the set it’s from. 

5. Get it Graded

For high-value cards, or if you want absolute certainty, getting your First Edition card graded is the best way to confirm its authenticity and condition.A graded First Edition card will have the designation noted on the grading label, confirming its status. At the London Card Show, you can access grading services to officially verify if your card is First Edition and even boost its value through professional certification.

By following these expert tips, collectors can make informed decisions, protect their investments, and fully enjoy the world of trading card collecting in 2024. Whether you’re hunting for the next million-pound card or just starting out, these insights from Harry Reynolds will guide you on your journey.

15th London Card Show

When compared to the November 2025 edition, the February 2025 event has nearly doubled in all areas, with a surge in vendor participation, attendee numbers, and space. Due to the ever-increasing number of attendees, the upcoming show will introduce another trading floor to accommodate the multitude of tables, vendors, and enthusiasts from all over the globe. 

The show hosts a large variety of stalls catering to all interests, including cards and collectibles in a variety of Sports, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, One Piece, Disney Lorcana and other pop culture favourites.

Fans at the show will also get an opportunity to get autographs and engage in an exclusive meet and greet session with:

• Matthew Sussman - the official voice of iconic Pokemon character Meowth - one of the few Pokémons who can talk, and a key member of Team Rocket in the long-running Pokémon anime series. Flying in from America, Sussman will connect with fans during meet-and-greet sessions and a special Q&A, where he’ll share insights about his experience working in the cult animation, and voicing Meowth, a character beloved by generations.
• Saheed Adebayo Akinfenwa - Former English footballer who has played for clubs such as Swansea City, Millwall, Wycombe Wanderers, and AFC Wimbledon.

The event will offer attendees a large variety of engaging activities, competitions, and collectibles, as well as an exciting lineup of Q&As, panels, and discussions with experts and special guests on the main stage. The main stage activities include a Whatnot Live Stream, Topps collection box breaks, the Pokémon Trainer Challenge, etc.

Back by popular demand at the November show will be; the Kids Zone, Trade Zone, Live Streaming Zone, and the Retro Gaming Zone. The Retro Gaming Zone will feature childhood video game classics such as Pacman, Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, NBA Jam, Sonic the Hedgehog, and many more. The popular Trade Night will also return on Saturday evening, offering collectors the chance to socialise and trade cards in a relaxed setting.

From kids just starting their card-collecting journey to seasoned investors hunting for rare finds, London Card Show provides a community-driven atmosphere where enthusiasts and families can bond over shared interests.The event continues to evolve with each edition, cementing its status as Europe’s leading trading card event and a must-attend event for UK trading card community.

Ends

Editors notes

Notes to Editors

For media enquiries or interviews with founder & CEO Harry Reynolds and COO Katie Hughes, please contact gazal@plus1comms.com.

For tickets and more information, visit the official London Card Show website at www.londoncardshow.co.uk.

Sources

1. Mercer, C. (2018). “The evolution of broadband in the UK: Development, impact, and future trends”. London: Palgrave Macmillan. 
2. Annett, S. (2014). "Transcultural Animation Fan Communities." 
3. Investec Wealth and Investment. “One in ten adults are ‘magpie investors’, investing in luxury items for profit.”

About London Card Show

Founded in 2021, the London Card Show was set up with a singular mission: to bring card collectors of all types under one roof. What initially began as a gathering of 10 tables and 40 attendees has since blossomed into a spectacular weekend-long event, attracting over 7,000 enthusiasts from across the globe. Their journey has been ignited by the passion of fans, having recently been crowned the UK’s Card Show of the Year!

Harry Reynolds, Founder & CEO of the London Card Show

Harry Reynolds, a natural-born entrepreneur, embarked on his journey at a young age, continually seeking innovative ways to seize opportunities and bridge market gaps. His passion for trading cards began during university, where he turned a £10 investment into an impressive £10,000 after discovering the value of cards. Harry's YouTube live streams and TikTok presence catapulted him into the UK card community, where he gained recognition for his unique trading card mystery box breaks. With unwavering determination, he pioneered the London Card Show, and saw it evolve from a small gathering to Europe's largest card event. Harry's dedication has led to global recognition, and he remains committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive card community for enthusiasts of all backgrounds.

Katie Hughes, Chief Operating Officer at the London Card Show

Katie Hughes, driven by a passion for creativity ignited during her school years, found her true calling in the world of marketing. After a marketing degree at university and six rewarding years within Hard Rock Cafe's marketing department, she embarked on a remarkable journey with the London Card Show. Initially unsure of what to expect from the card industry, she quickly fell in love with it. Her marketing strategy thrived on ingenuity, emphasising community engagement over traditional methods and achieving an exceptional 7% engagement rate, far surpassing industry standards. Her dedication and vision were instrumental in propelling the London Card Show to unprecedented success, doubling attendance and vendor tables within a year. Her dedication to her role, her family's support, and her commitment to the event's success have made her an indispensable asset to the London Card Show's remarkable transformation.