In collecting circles, and especially among Pokémon enthusiasts, the term singles or loose cards is used to describe collectible cards, usually Pokémon cards, that are not graded or encapsulated. These cards are just as they are – they’re not graded or protectively encased. For many collectors, singles offer an opportunity to buy or sell cards without going through the more formal process of grading and encapsulation.
The search for the perfect card
Singles have always been a central part of trading card culture. For many collectors, the hunt for the missing card is an adrenaline-filled journey. What better feeling than having searched for a specific card for a long time, to finally find it, buy it, bring it home and hold it in your hand? This hunt is a euphoric experience for the passionate collector, and when the hunt is over, it is one of the most rewarding moments in the entire hobby world.
Earn money on Singles
Singles are not only a source of euphoria – they can also be a way to make money. An example of this is when a collector buys an entire collection, splits it up and sells the cards individually. This can often generate a higher value than selling the collection as a whole, as it broadens the target audience and allows more collectors to find the cards they are looking for.
Another common strategy is to buy singles and then graded them. Many cards can dramatically increase in value when they are graded and encapsulated by companies like PSA or RaukCard. Often it’s not just about the grade – the grading gives the card proof of authenticity, and the condition assessment can make it easier to sell. This approach is especially true for older cards, where the grade of condition can determine the value. Uncertainty about the actual condition of the card can sometimes be crucial to getting the card sold at all.
Some investors are looking for specific single cards that are expected to increase in value over time and then resell them at a profit. Others buy cards to sell them more expensively right away, taking advantage of the demand for certain cards – one factor that sometimes comes into play is whether or not the cards are playable for the meta!
Now, in February 2025, we are seeing a marked increase in the value of loose cards, especially where many so-called “Illustration Rares” have increased by over 100%.
Storage of Singles
- Penny sleeves: The cheapest and simplest plastic sleeves. Penny sleeves are thin and transparent, so they don’t risk damaging the surface of the card, but they are not very shock-resistant.
- Toploader: A hard plastic pocket that offers better protection against shocks. It is a good option for more expensive singles that you do not want to keep in a binder. The toploader is often used in combination with a penny sleeve for extra protection. If you want even better protection, there are specific toploader binders.
- Semi-Rigid: A less rigid hard plastic pocket than the toploader, which also has a lot of clear plastic to show the card clearly. Semi-rigids are often used when sending cards for grading, as grading companies prefer to receive the cards in these to avoid damage when picking the cards out.
- Binder: A side-loading zippered binder is a good option to protect the cards from external damage. It is recommended to use fixed plastic pockets in the binder to minimize the risk of the cards being damaged by the rings of a binder.
Popularity and market development
The rise in popularity of Pokémon, along with the development of collectible fairs, has also increased the demand for singles have skyrocketed. Many exhibitors at trade fairs have multiple binders and large displays for collectors to look at and buy cards. For collectors, it’s not just the hunt for the right card that appeals, but also the opportunity to hold and admire the cards – many are looking for the glittering, beautiful cards that will take their collection to the next level.
