Burn Notice: Charizard Tops Jordan in PSA’s First-Ever Fraud Report

It’s Not Just Grails

The bigger shift here isn’t who is being counterfeited—it’s what. PSA’s report shows that counterfeiters have moved beyond the hobby’s six-figure prized assets and are now targeting inexpensive and mid-tier cards—and even widely available promo cards. Time to take a closer look at your collection.

With all the liquidity in the Pokémon market, including a global audience of buyers and sellers, bad actors have simply followed the volume here, with scammers betting that collectors won’t scrutinize a $50 Pikachu the way they would a $50,000 card.

Stay Sharp

PSA’s Fraud Report is the first of its kind from the ever-growing grading company, and it lays out not just the patterns counterfeiters are using, but the safeguards PSA has in place to stop them. (Thanks for fighting the good fight, PSA!) If you’ve been ripping packs—or buying singles—in 2025, give the full report a read.

Want to make sure your Charizards (and your Jordans) are the real deal? Head to Mantel to connect with fellow collectors who can help you spot a fake from a mile away.

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