The conditions of Pokémon cards: from Mint to Poor

BDPokéCards uses the same condition scale as Cardmarket, from Mint to Poor. Along with rarity, condition is what most affects a card's price.

The Seven Conditions

Mint (MT): perfect card, as if straight from the booster. No defects, even up close.

Near Mint (NM): almost perfect card. Up close, you might see a small defect, such as a white spot on an edge. This is the reference condition for pricing.

Excellent (EX): slightly used card. Some whitening on edges or corners, or light scratches.

Good (GD): visible wear. Whitened edges and corners, scratches on the surface. No creases.

Light Played (LP): heavily used card. Worn edges and corners, scratches, sometimes a slight crease. It can still be used in tournaments.

Played (PL): very worn or deformed card. Creases, damaged surface, rounded corners. It may no longer be accepted in tournaments, but remains intact and readable.

Poor (PO): very damaged card, unusable in tournaments. Tears, water stains, heavy creases, writing or modified card.

Evaluating a Card

1. Look at the card under good lighting, tilting it to see scratches.
2. Examine all four corners and edges, front and back. Whitening is most visible on the back.
3. Hold the card against the light to spot creases.
4. If in doubt, choose the lower condition. If the received condition does not match the listing, the buyer can report an issue from their order.

Condition and Price

A Near Mint card is worth its price guide. Below that, the price drops quickly. To suggest a price to sellers, BDPokéCards applies these percentages to the Near Mint price:

These are guidelines. A highly sought-after card often sells for more, even if damaged.

Protecting Your Cards

Store your cards in sleeves, then in a toploader or binder. For shipping, place the protected card between two rigid pieces of cardboard.