If you collect or play Pokémon cards, you have undoubtedly come across the terms Holo and Reverse Holo. Both variants have a shiny finish, but they differ considerably in how the holographic effect is applied. Even so, we see plenty of beginning collectors mix the two up. So what exactly is the difference between Holo and Reverse Holo cards?

What is a Holo Pokémon card?

A Holo (Holographic) Pokémon card has a shiny effect only in the artwork of the Pokémon. The rest of the card stays matte. That gives the card a premium look and makes the Pokémon itself stand out.

Characteristics of a Holo card

• Only the background of the artwork has a holographic shine.
• Different sets have their own Holo effect, such as stars, sparkles or waves.
• Holo cards are usually Rares or special promo cards.
• In most modern sets, a Holo Rare is guaranteed in a booster pack.

As you may already know, Holo cards have been one of the most wanted variants ever since the Base Set of 1999. Think of classics like the Charizard Base Set Holo, a card that is still hugely popular among collectors. That says something about the timeless appeal of this variant!

Example of a Holo Pokémon card

What is a Reverse Holo Pokémon card?

A Reverse Holo Pokémon card has a shiny finish across almost the entire card surface, except for the artwork. That means the name, the Energy type, the borders and the text all shine, while the Pokémon itself stays matte.

Characteristics of a Reverse Holo card

• Everything outside the artwork shines, from the borders to the text.
• They appear as Common, Uncommon and Rare cards, which means even the simplest cards can get a special shine.
• Reverse Holos often have unique patterns, such as Energy symbols or lines.
• Almost every set since the e-Series (2002) contains Reverse Holo cards as an extra collecting option.

Even though a Reverse Holo may look less special than a Holo at first glance, do not underestimate them. In some cases a Reverse Holo of a popular Pokémon, such as Charizard, Pikachu or Mewtwo, can be just as wanted as the regular Holo version.

Example of a Reverse Holo Pokémon card

Which one is rarer?

There is a big difference in how often you come across them. Holo cards are usually rarer, because they only sit in the Rare slot of a booster pack. A Reverse Holo can be found in almost every pack, which lets you build up a collection of them faster.

Even so, not all Reverse Holos are equally easy to find. Reverse Holo Rare cards turn up far less often than Reverse Holo Commons or Uncommons. Especially when it is a popular Pokémon, the value can be surprisingly high.

Which one should you collect?

Which of the two is better depends entirely on your collecting goal:

• Holo cards are ideal if rarity, nostalgia and classic highlights matter to you. Older Holo cards from the early Pokémon sets in particular are still hugely wanted.
• Reverse Holo cards are a must if you want to complete a set in full. For many collectors it is an extra challenge to get hold of both the regular and the Reverse Holo version of every card.

Both variants give your collection their own character and shine.

Conclusion

Whatever you choose, the most important thing is that you collect what you genuinely like. Pokémon cards are meant to be fun, whether you collect them, trade them or play with them.

Which variant do you prefer?
Have a look at our collection and discover your favourites at RareCards.nl.