Card reference

Card Condition Guide

Condition is a person's description of the physical card, recorded by a collector or a shop. It is separate from the card's printing, finish, foil pattern, authenticity, and professional grade.

Before you rely on a condition

FoilFox does not grade, authenticate, or independently inspect cards. A catalog reference image shows which card it is, not a photograph of anyone's copy, so inspect the physical card before you buy or trade it.

FoilFox condition tiers

Near Mint

Clean overall, with only minor imperfections. Near Mint does not mean flawless, professionally graded, or guaranteed to be pack fresh.

Lightly Played

Noticeable minor wear, such as light edge, corner, or surface wear. The card remains intact and suitable for sleeved play.

Moderately Played

More visible wear or several imperfections. The card remains readable and identifiable, without the severe structural damage described below.

Heavily Played

Extensive visible wear, which may include scuffing, whitening, dents, or creasing. The card remains readable and identifiable but is clearly well worn.

Damaged

Severe or structural defects, such as tears, major creases, water damage, peeling or delamination, ink, or alteration. Playability may be affected.

Not Assessed

No condition has been recorded yet. Inspect the card before you buy, sell, or trade it.

Why FoilFox does not offer “Mint”

Near Mint is the highest condition you can choose in FoilFox, because an everyday visual inspection cannot support a promise that a card is flawless. Older records may still show Mint, which was the recorder's own claim rather than a FoilFox assessment.

Finish is a different fact

Non-foil, holo, reverse holo, and special foil patterns describe how a card was printed, not its physical condition, so check both before you agree on a price.

Compare the foil area and pattern in our illustrated Pokémon finish guide, including holo, reverse holo, Poké Ball, Master Ball and Cosmos.

Questions?

Email support@foilfoxtcg.com.