Black & White Pokémon Card Set Symbols
Identify Black & White expansions by their distinctive black set icons, from the original checkerboard mark through the Team Plasma releases.
How to Read Black & White Set Marks
Black & White set symbols are pictorial icons rather than modern letter codes. On these cards, compare the icon near the lower card details with the collector number before checking the set list.
Tap any enlarged mark below to open that expansion's card list, chase cards, release date, and marketplace references.
All Black & White Set Symbols
13 visual marks · newest first
November 6, 2013
Legendary Treasures
Open complete set guide
August 14, 2013
Plasma Blast
Open complete set guide
May 8, 2013
Plasma Freeze
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February 6, 2013
Plasma Storm
Open complete set guide
November 7, 2012
Boundaries Crossed
Open complete set guide
October 5, 2012
Dragon Vault
Open complete set guide
August 15, 2012
Dragons Exalted
Open complete set guide
May 9, 2012
Dark Explorers
Open complete set guide
February 8, 2012
Next Destinies
Open complete set guide
November 16, 2011
Noble Victories
Open complete set guide
August 31, 2011
Emerging Powers
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April 25, 2011
Black & White
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March 1, 2011
BW Black Star Promos
Open complete set guide
Set Symbol FAQ
How many Black & White set symbols are in this lookup?
This page currently shows 13 visual Black & White expansion marks from the English MonZap catalog. Releases without a verified printed mark are not shown as symbols.
Where is the set symbol on a Pokémon card?
Look along the lower edge of most Pokémon cards near the collector number and rarity details. Some older card layouts place the expansion symbol beside the artwork instead, so compare the whole icon area when identifying a vintage card.
Is the set symbol the same as the rarity symbol?
No. The expansion symbol or code identifies the set. A rarity mark describes the card's rarity within that set. They may appear close together, which is why the collector number is a useful second check.
Why does Base Set have no expansion symbol?
The original English Base Set does not carry an expansion symbol. If an early card has no set mark, compare its collector number, artwork, copyright line, and layout with the Base Set checklist before deciding which printing it is.
Can two Pokémon cards with the same name have different set symbols?
Yes. A Pokémon can be reprinted across many expansions. Match the set symbol or code and collector number before comparing prices because different printings can have very different artwork, rarity, and value.
Found the Symbol, Need the Card?
Scan it with MonZap to identify the exact printing and compare current TCGPlayer and Cardmarket references.
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