Whether you’re opening your first booster pack or browsing online marketplaces, you’ll quickly come across words that may be unfamiliar. Terms like raw, reverse holo, slab, and Master Set are commonly used by collectors, but they can be confusing if you’re just getting started.
This guide explains some of the most important Pokémon card terms in simple language, helping you better understand discussions, product listings, and collecting guides.
Base Set
The Base Set refers to the original English Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion released in 1999. Many iconic cards, including Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur, debuted in this set.
Because of its historical significance, Base Set cards remain highly sought after by collectors.
Booster Box
A Booster Box is a sealed display box containing 36 booster packs from a standard Pokémon expansion. Booster Boxes are popular because they typically offer a lower cost per pack than purchasing individual boosters.
Booster Pack
A Booster Pack is a sealed pack containing a selection of randomized Pokémon cards from a specific expansion. Opening booster packs is one of the most popular ways to grow a collection.
Elite Trainer Box (ETB)
An Elite Trainer Box (ETB) is a boxed Pokémon product that includes booster packs along with accessories such as sleeves, dice, energy cards, and a storage box.
Expansion (Set)
An expansion, often called a set, is a collection of Pokémon cards released together. Examples include Scarlet & Violet, Paldea Evolved, and Twilight Masquerade.
Each expansion has its own set symbol and collector numbering.
Full Art
A Full Art card features artwork that extends across nearly the entire front of the card instead of being limited to a smaller illustration box. These cards are generally more collectible than standard versions.
Graded Card
A graded card has been professionally evaluated for authenticity and condition by a grading company such as PSA, CGC, or Beckett.
The card is then sealed inside a protective plastic holder.
Holo (Holographic)
A Holo card has a reflective foil pattern on the artwork while the rest of the card remains standard.
Illustration Rare (IR)
An Illustration Rare (IR) features detailed artwork that often tells a story or depicts Pokémon in everyday scenes. These cards debuted in the Scarlet & Violet era and have become popular among collectors.
Master Set
A master set includes every card associated with a Pokémon expansion, including standard cards, reverse holos, promotional cards (depending on the collector’s definition), and special variants.
Mint / Near Mint
These terms describe a card’s condition.
- Mint (M): Nearly flawless.
- Near Mint (NM): Very minor imperfections that are often difficult to notice.
Condition plays an important role in determining value.
Pull Rate
A pull rate refers to how often a particular rarity or card type appears in booster packs. Pull rates are not officially published by The Pokémon Company and are based on community observations rather than guarantees.
Raw Card
A raw card is a card that has not been professionally graded.
Many collectors buy and sell raw cards before deciding whether grading is worthwhile.
Reverse Holo
A Reverse Holo card has a foil pattern covering most of the card except for the artwork.
This is the opposite of a standard holo card, where only the artwork is holographic.
Secret Rare
A Secret Rare is a card with a collector number higher than the total number of cards in the main set, such as 205/198.
These cards are often among the most desirable in an expansion.
Sealed Product
Sealed product refers to unopened Pokémon items, including booster packs, Booster Boxes, Elite Trainer Boxes, tins, and collection boxes.
Some collectors focus entirely on sealed products rather than individual cards.
Set Symbol
A set symbol is a small icon printed on a Pokémon card that identifies the expansion it belongs to.
Slab
A slab is the protective plastic case used by grading companies to encapsulate graded cards.
Collectors often use the word “slab” interchangeably with “graded card.”
Sleeve
A sleeve is a thin plastic protector used to prevent scratches and wear on Pokémon cards.
Top Loader
A top loader is a rigid plastic holder that provides additional protection for valuable cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “raw” mean in Pokémon card collecting?
A raw card is one that has not been graded by a professional grading company.
What’s the difference between holo and reverse holo?
A holo card has foil on the artwork, while a reverse holo has foil on most of the card outside the artwork.
What is a slab?
A slab is the hard plastic case that holds a professionally graded Pokémon card.
Why should I learn these terms?
Understanding common Pokémon card terminology makes it easier to research cards, communicate with other collectors, and make informed buying and selling decisions.
Final Thoughts
Learning Pokémon card terminology is one of the easiest ways to become a more confident collector. Whether you’re shopping online, attending local card shows, or organizing your binder, understanding these common terms will help you navigate the hobby with greater confidence.
As you continue collecting, you’ll naturally encounter new products, rarities, and collecting strategies, but mastering these foundational terms is a great place to start.