The rarest rarity in Pokémon TCG is Secret Rare.
What Makes a Card Secret Rare?
Secret Rare cards are distinguished by their unique numbering system. Unlike other cards in a set that follow a sequential numbering up to the total set count (e.g., 100/100), Secret Rare cards have an individual collection number that is higher than the actual total number of cards officially listed in the set. For instance, if a set contains 198 cards, a Secret Rare from that set might be numbered 224/198. This unconventional numbering is precisely why they are called "secret" rare cards—they exist beyond the published set list.
Identifying Secret Rare Cards
- Numbering: The most definitive sign is the card's set number, which will exceed the official set size (e.g., 224/198).
- Artwork: Often, Secret Rare cards feature unique full-art illustrations, alternate art, or special design elements not found on their regular counterparts.
- Pull Rates: Their inclusion rate in booster packs is significantly lower than other rarities, making them exceptionally difficult to acquire.
Understanding Pokémon TCG Rarity Tiers
While Secret Rare cards represent the pinnacle of scarcity in a set, the Pokémon TCG features a structured hierarchy of rarities, each indicated by a symbol on the card:
Common Rarity Symbols and Their Scarcity
| Rarity Tier | Symbol | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Common | Circle | These are the most frequently found cards in a set. |
| Uncommon | Diamond | Slightly less common than "Common" cards, these are still relatively easy to pull from booster packs. |
| Rare | Star | These cards are less common than Uncommon cards. They often include basic holographic cards (known as "Holo Rare" or "Reverse Holo" if the non-artwork part is holographic) that feature a shimmering illustration. |
| Ultra Rare | Star (or special symbols) | This category encompasses a variety of highly sought-after cards, including V, VMAX, VSTAR, EX, GX, Full Art cards, and Rainbow Rares. They typically feature unique artwork, textures, and higher hit points or powerful attacks, making them desirable for both collectors and players. While challenging to pull, they are generally more common than Secret Rare cards within a set. |
| Secret Rare | Star (or special symbols) | As the rarest, these cards have a set number higher than the total cards in the main set. They often feature alternate art, gold borders, or unique aesthetics, making them exceedingly rare and highly valuable to collectors. |
The pursuit of Secret Rare cards is a core aspect of collecting for many Pokémon TCG enthusiasts due to their extreme scarcity and often stunning designs.
