The Pokémon card collecting community is currently embroiled in a discussion over the potential authenticity of a rare Mew card circulating online. The card is reportedly from the upcoming 30th anniversary set, slated for release in September. While collectors and resellers alike scrutinize early details and potential leaks to identify valuable cards, this particular Mew card has drawn attention for displaying characteristics that suggest it may be a counterfeit.
Images of the card reveal a "B/RGB" rarity mark, a designation not previously seen in the Pokémon TCG. Speculation suggests this could be a nod to the original Red, Blue, and Green games that debuted 30 years ago. A creator and seller known as PokéAus opened a pack containing the card during a stream, which also included other cards consistent with the anniversary set, such as guaranteed Pikachu cards found in each pack. However, closer examination of the Mew card has uncovered several discrepancies not mentioned in prior leaks.
Some fans have expressed skepticism, even after viewing the stream, proposing the possibility of an elaborate hoax involving a custom-made fake card and pack designed to generate viral attention. Support for this theory comes from perceived inconsistencies in the card's printing. Critics on platforms like Reddit have pointed out the apparent absence of the 30th anniversary stamp, which is present on other cards from the set. Further claims include missing copyright information, noticeable texture and print issues, and misaligned border coloring relative to the set's standard.
Conversely, other members of the community are not convinced the card is fake. Some argue that copyright information might be present but difficult to discern in video footage. They also propose that the 30th anniversary stamp could have been intentionally omitted for this specific card if it represents a new, rather than a reprinted, card within the anniversary collection. One theory posits that the card is part of a new, secret subset alongside two other unrevealed cards.
The artwork on the card is attributed to YOSHIROTTEN, an artist with prior experience creating Pokémon cards that exhibit a similar artistic style. As of now, YOSHIROTTEN has not publicly commented on the card's status. The community awaits further clarification as the 30th anniversary set prepares for its September launch.