How to Spot a Fake Graded Pokémon Card Slab (PSA, CGC, BGS)
With graded Pokémon card prices reaching the thousands, it’s no surprise that counterfeit slabs are becoming more common — and more convincing.
Fake PSA, CGC, and BGS cases are showing up on marketplaces, and even seasoned collectors can get fooled. Here’s how to spot a fake slab before you get scammed.
🔍 1. Check the Label Font and Alignment
Real slabs have consistent, crisp fonts — fakes often don’t.
- PSA: The font on the label should be sharp, evenly spaced, and not pixelated. Watch for bold or too-thin letters.
- CGC: Label text should be centered with no misalignment. Grading subcategories (Centering, Surface, etc.) should line up cleanly.
- BGS: Fake labels often have slightly darker text or poor centering between the gold foil and plastic.
> If something feels off, it probably is.
🧊 2. Compare the Case Plastic
Fake slabs are usually lighter, glossier, or more brittle.
- PSA cases have a light frostiness to the plastic — not perfectly clear
- CGC slabs are very sturdy and thick, with smooth beveled edges
- BGS slabs are thicker than both, and slightly magnetic-feeling when stacked
Feel is hard to fake. If it feels cheap or bends slightly in-hand — red flag.
🧾 3. Use the Certification Number Lookup
This is your best defense.
- Go to the official PSA, CGC, or BGS site
- Enter the cert number on the label
- Make sure the card, grade, and label style match exactly
If the cert is missing, mismatched, or not in the database, it’s likely fake.
> PSA also provides images for many graded cards — match the image to your slab.
🧠 Bonus Tips
- Buy from reputable sellers only — check feedback and grading experience
- Avoid “too good to be true” pricing — especially on sites like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp
- If possible, verify with a local shop or collector friend before buying high-value slabs
⚠️ Known Red Flags
- Label text too close to edges or cut off
- Incorrect logos or outdated slab styles
- Lighter-weight slabs with weak sealing
- Cards that “float” inside the case or shift when shaken
6 Comments