What Does the Hand Symbol Mean on Pokémon Cards?

If you have ever collected or played the Pokémon Trading Card Game, you may have noticed a small hand symbol on certain cards. This hand symbol is an important indicator of a card’s rarity and its ability to be used in competitive play. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of the hand symbol on Pokémon cards and delve into its various meanings.

The Basics: Pokémon Card Rarity

Pokémon cards are categorized into several rarity levels, which determine their availability and collectability. The hand symbol is closely linked to these rarity levels and serves as a visual cue for collectors and players alike. Let’s take a look at the different rarity levels and their associated symbols:

The Meaning Behind the Hand Symbol

Now that we understand the different rarity levels in the Pokémon TCG, let’s delve into the meaning behind the hand symbol specifically. The hand symbol is present on cards that are part of a special subset or expansion set within the Pokémon TCG.

This hand symbol identifies cards as being part of a specific set and also serves as an indicator of their playability in official tournament settings. Cards with a hand symbol can only be used in tournaments if they are from a set that is currently legal for play.

For instance, if you come across a card with a hand symbol and it is from a set that is no longer part of the standard rotation, you cannot include that card in your deck for official tournaments. However, you can still use it for casual play or in formats that allow for older sets.

Exceptions and Variations

As with any rule, there are a few exceptions and variations to be aware of when it comes to the hand symbol on Pokémon cards. In some cases, promotional cards or special releases may not have the hand symbol but can still be legal for tournament play if explicitly stated by the official Pokémon Organized Play guidelines.

Additionally, some cards may have multiple versions within a set, some with the hand symbol and some without. These multiple versions often have different artwork, alternate colors, or holofoil patterns but still belong to the same set and have the same gameplay abilities.

Conclusion

Understanding the meaning of the hand symbol on Pokémon cards is crucial for collectors and players alike. It provides insight into a card’s rarity, its eligibility for use in official tournaments, and its overall value in the Pokémon TCG community.

Remember, no symbol denotes a common card, a black circle symbol indicates an uncommon card, a diamond symbol represents a rare card, a star symbol signifies a holo rare card, a star symbol with a silver border indicates an ultra rare card, and a star symbol with a gold border represents a secret rare card.

Next time you come across a Pokémon card with a hand symbol, take a moment to appreciate its uniqueness and consider its role within your collection or deck. The hand symbol adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to the world of Pokémon cards, making them not just collectibles, but also strategic tools for competitive play.