What are Pokémon promo cards?

In this article

• Promo cards are special Pokémon cards that reach you in other ways than a regular booster pack. Here is how to spot and protect them.

You open an Elite Trainer Box and there is suddenly a card that does not belong with the regular boosters. Or you spot a card with an odd number at an event. Chances are it is a promo card. Here is what that means.

What is a promo card?

A promo card is a card that does not come in regular booster packs. You get it another way, for example as an extra in a box, at an event or through a special offer. Promo is short for promotion: the card belongs to an offer or release.

Promo cards can show the same Pokémon as regular cards, but they are often released separately. That makes them feel like a small bonus in your collection.

How do you spot one?

Look at the card number in the bottom corner. On a regular card you see a number with the total of the set. On a promo card there is usually a code with letters and a number, for example something with "PROMO" or a short promo code. You will often see a small black star as well.

Also check the set symbol. A promo card often has its own promo symbol instead of the symbol of a regular set. Not sure? Search the card by name and number and you will see right away if it is a promo.

Where do promo cards come from?

There are several ways to get a promo. Sometimes it is an extra card in a box, such as an Elite Trainer Box or a collection box. Sometimes you get it at an event, such as a prerelease or tournament. And sometimes it comes from a special offer by the publisher or by stores.

Which promo comes in which box differs per release. Always read the description on the packaging or in the web shop.

Are promo cards worth more?

Not automatically. Some promo cards are sought after because they are hard to get, others are very common. The value depends on the card, the demand and the condition. Check each card and do not assume a promo is worth more than a regular card.

Protect your promos

Whether a promo is worth a lot or not, protect it from the start. Put it in a penny sleeve and then in a toploader or a sturdy sleeve, especially if it is shiny or has beautiful artwork. That keeps the corners and edges neat.

Below you find a few products to keep your promos safe.