eBay has introduced a significant modification for individuals involved in trading card transactions. The online platform is rolling out its Authenticity Guarantee service specifically for trading cards in the UK. Under this new initiative, sellers are required to send eligible trading cards to eBay’s authentication facility for a physical inspection conducted by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) before they are shipped to the buyer. Each card will be affixed with an e-tag containing a unique QR code on its protective packaging, enabling buyers to access card details and authentication information by scanning the code.
Initially, the authenticity service will be available for eligible trading cards, such as collectible card games, sports trading cards, and non-sports cards, priced at £500 and above. By June, the eligibility criteria will expand to include all trading cards priced at £500 or higher. The Authenticity Guarantee service, which incurs no additional cost for buyers, is already operational for various categories like trainers, luxury watches, and handbags.
According to eBay, there is a continued high demand for trading cards, with popular brands like Pokémon and Formula 1 leading the trend. Notable cards like Charizard ex and Ancient Mew are among the most sought-after, with Lando Norris ranking as the top searched British athlete on the platform in 2025. The highest-priced trading card sold in the UK was a rare 1999 Pokemon 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard Base Set Holo Rare #4 BGS 9 MINT, fetching a value of £16,500.
Adam Ireland, Vice President and General Manager of Global Collectables at eBay, emphasized the importance of trust in the collectibles market and highlighted eBay’s extensive experience and diverse selection in the industry. The extension of the Authenticity Guarantee service to trading cards in the UK aims to enhance the trading experience for high-value transactions and signifies a significant milestone for eBay’s collectibles business.
In a strategic move, eBay recently announced a $1.2 billion (£890 million) deal to acquire the second-hand clothing app Depop from Etsy, targeting a younger demographic for long-term growth. The deal is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of the year, with Depop retaining its brand, platform, and culture. Both eBay and Depop executives expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, focusing on leveraging each other’s strengths to deliver enhanced benefits to their users and communities.