Technical File • Updated 2026
Stop buying
pieces of cardboard.
The market is flooded. One in three "VMAX" cards sold on general platforms is a Chinese counterfeit costing €0.10.
The good news? Science doesn't lie. We've written the definitive encyclopedia to teach you how to appraise any map in under 60 seconds.
Reading time: 12 min • 7 Chapters • 4 Analysis Tools
Weight
Paper Analysis
Spectrum
Light Test
Texture
3D Haptics
Offset
Microscopy
The Science of Authentication
This guide isn't just a list of tips. It's a technical dive into The Pokémon Company 's industrial manufacturing processes. You'll learn to see the invisible.
Cross-section simulation (Zoom x50)
AUTHENTIC
Front Side (Coated Paper)
Back (Matte Paper)
✓ Dark line visible on the edge
COUNTERFEIT
Standard Monoblock Carton
✗ Uniform white slice
Light Transmission Rate
RELIEF SIMULATION
Run your finger over it...
Touchscreen Diagnostics
TRUE Deep Grooves
FALSE Smooth/oily surface
Bad Police
300 PV
Pasted, serif font
❌
Good Police
300 PV
Clean space, Sans-Serif Bold
✅
