Pokémon Set Symbols: Every English Set, Code and Release Date

A set symbol is the small picture printed at the bottom of a Pokémon card that tells you which expansion it came from. Find yours in the list below, or type the set’s name or code into the box. There are 166 English sets here, from Base Set in 1999 to this month’s release, each with its symbol, code, release date and card count.

Where to find the set symbol on a card

• 1999 to 2003 (Wizards of the Coast): just under the bottom-right corner of the artwork. Base Set is the exception: it has no set symbol at all, which is how you tell it apart from Base Set 2 and Legendary Collection.
• 2003 to 2016 (EX to XY): in the bottom-right corner, just to the right of the collector number (the “25/108”).
• 2017 to early 2023 (Sun & Moon and Sword & Shield): in the bottom-left corner, just before the collector number.
• Scarlet & Violet onward (2023 to today): there’s no picture any more. In its place is a three-letter code in a small box, such as SVI for the Scarlet & Violet base set, in the bottom-left corner, between a letter called the regulation mark and the collector number.

Don’t mix up the set symbol with the rarity symbol. The rarity symbol is the circle, diamond or star right next to the card number. It tells you how hard the card is to pull, not which set it’s from. The rarity chart explains every one.

How to read the list

Code is the set’s official abbreviation. Cards have printed it since Scarlet & Violet, and players have used it for decklists since long before that, so older sets have one even though it isn’t on the card. Black Star promos use a PR code, like PR-SV.

Cards is the number printed after the slash on every card in the set. The “secret” count is the cards numbered above it, such as 215/203. Those are the secret rares, and they’re usually the ones worth checking first.

Sub-sets that share their parent’s symbol aren’t listed separately. Trainer Gallery cards carry the symbol of the set they came in, and Shiny Vault cards carry the Hidden Fates or Shining Fates symbol.

FAQ

Why does my Pokémon card have no set symbol?

If it’s from 1999, it’s probably Base Set, the only main English set printed without one. If it’s from 2023 or later, look for a three-letter code in a box instead of a picture. A few promo cards and basic Energy cards don’t have a set symbol either.

What does the black star with “PROMO” on it mean?

It’s the symbol for Black Star Promos, cards given out in collection boxes, blister packs, events and magazines rather than in booster packs. Each series has its own promo line and numbering, like SWSH001 or SVP 001.

What does “EN” next to the set code mean?

It’s the card’s language. English cards say EN, and the same card printed in French or German says FR or DE.

Are set symbols the same on Japanese cards?

No. Japanese sets are released under different names and on a different schedule, with their own codes such as SV1S (Scarlet ex) or M1L (Mega Brave). This list covers English sets only.

Set data comes from the open Pokémon TCG data project, checked against the cards. Spotted a mistake? Tell me and I’ll fix it.