How to Spot a Fake Tarot Deck: 7 Counterfeit Warning Signs
The world of tarot has experienced an incredible renaissance over the past decade. From traditional Rider-Waite-Smith inspired decks to breathtaking independent creations, tarot has become more diverse, inclusive and artistically rich than ever before.
Sadly, this growth has also brought an unwelcome problem: counterfeit tarot decks.
Every day, fake tarot cards appear on online marketplaces, often sold at prices that seem too good to be true. Many buyers do not even realise they have purchased a counterfeit copy until it arrives. The disappointment can be immense, not only because the quality is poor, but because the purchase unintentionally supports copyright infringement rather than the artist who lovingly created the deck.
At The Guilded Veil, we believe every authentic tarot deck represents years of creativity, research, symbolism and artistic dedication. This guide explains how to recognise counterfeit tarot decks, why authenticity matters and how you can confidently purchase genuine decks while supporting the creators who keep tarot flourishing.
What Is a Counterfeit Tarot Deck?
A counterfeit tarot deck is an unauthorised copy of an original tarot deck. Someone reproduces the artwork, packaging and card designs without the permission of the artist or publisher. The counterfeit seller avoids the costs of commissioning artwork, editing guidebooks, printing premium cards and marketing the deck. Instead, they simply copy someone else's hard work and sell it cheaply.
Unfortunately, the original creator receives nothing from these sales.
Why Are Counterfeit Tarot Decks Becoming More Common?
Independent tarot has never been more popular. Artists now spend years creating unique decks inspired by mythology, folklore, psychology, nature, fantasy, photography and personal spiritual journeys. Many fund their projects through crowdfunding before working with specialist printers to produce exceptional quality decks.
As soon as a deck becomes popular, counterfeit manufacturers often copy it.
Their aim is simple:
- Produce it cheaply
- Sell it quickly
- Profit from another person's creativity
Because these copies frequently appear alongside genuine products online, buyers can easily assume they're authentic.
Why Buying Authentic Tarot Decks Matters
Choosing an authentic tarot deck is not simply about receiving a better product. It is about respecting creativity.
Behind every genuine deck is an artist who may have spent hundreds, or even thousands, of hours:
- Sketching concepts
- Researching symbolism
- Painting illustrations
- Writing guidebooks
- Testing card layouts
- Working with printers
- Funding production
When counterfeit copies are purchased instead, that income disappears from the people who actually created the work.
Supporting authentic decks helps ensure independent creators can continue producing beautiful tarot for years to come.
How to Spot a Counterfeit Tarot Deck
Fortunately, there are several warning signs.
1. The Price Seems Too Good to Be True
One of the biggest clues is an unusually low price.
Professional printing, premium cardstock, quality guidebooks and durable packaging all cost money. If a deck that normally sells for £55 is advertised for £8 or £10, caution is advised.
Genuine bargains do exist, but dramatic discounts should always encourage further investigation.
The Somnia Tarot listed at £5.29 on an online marketplace.
2. The Deck Comes in a Thin Tuck Box
Many authentic indie decks are presented in sturdy two-piece rigid boxes with magnetic closures or premium lift-off lids.
Counterfeit copies frequently arrive in a simple playing-card style tuck box because it is significantly cheaper to manufacture. Although some publishers legitimately use tuck boxes, many premium indie decks do not.
3. There Is No Printed Guidebook
One of the most common warning signs is the absence of a printed guidebook. Instead, counterfeit decks often include a QR code directing buyers to a downloadable PDF. The original guidebook has frequently been removed to reduce production costs. A thoughtfully written guidebook is part of the creator's work and forms an important part of the tarot experience.
A folded instruction sheet and a QR code in place of the printed guidebook.
4. Poor Print Quality
Counterfeit decks often reveal themselves through inferior printing.
Look for:
- Blurry artwork
- Washed-out colours
- Incorrect colour balance
- Soft or pixelated images
- Uneven borders
- Cropped artwork
Authentic publishers invest heavily in colour accuracy so the artwork reflects the artist's original vision.
5. Thin or Flimsy Card Stock
Quality tarot cards should feel substantial. Counterfeit decks often use thinner card stock that bends easily, scuffs quickly and wears far faster than genuine editions. Many authentic publishers also use linen finishes, premium coatings or speciality cardstock that counterfeits rarely replicate successfully.
6. Missing Publisher Information
Authentic decks usually include:
- Publisher details
- Copyright information
- ISBN (where applicable)
- Artist credits
- Publication date
Counterfeit packaging may omit much of this information or reproduce it poorly.
7. Poor Reviews
If previous buyers mention:
- blurry cards
- missing guidebooks
- damaged packaging
- suspicious QR codes
- poor card quality
These are strong indicators that the deck may not be genuine.
Why Counterfeit Decks Are Often Poor Quality
Counterfeit manufacturers focus on reducing costs.
- Corners may fray quickly.
- Card stock may stick together.
- Colours fade.
- Edges chip easily.
- Packaging tears.
- Guidebooks disappear.
While the artwork may look similar online, the experience of using the deck is often vastly different.
Tarot is a tactile practice. The feel of the cards matters just as much as their appearance.
A counterfeit deck in a flimsy two piece box.
How Counterfeit Decks Affect Independent Artists
Independent creators rarely have the resources of major publishing houses. Many save for years or invest personal funds to produce their dream deck.
When counterfeit copies flood the market:
- sales decrease
- future projects become harder to fund
- creators lose confidence
- smaller artists suffer disproportionately
Buying authentic is one of the simplest ways to support the future of independent tarot.
Why Authentic Tarot Decks Feel Different
There is something deeply satisfying about holding a genuine deck.
The colours are rich.
The card stock feels luxurious.
The guidebook reflects the creator's intentions.
Every detail, from the box to the finish, has been carefully considered.
Rather than simply purchasing cards, you are investing in an artistic vision.
Where Should You Buy Tarot Decks?
The safest places include:
- Independent tarot retailers
- Established bookshops
- The creator's own website
- Official publisher websites
- Trusted specialist spiritual retailers
These sources work directly with publishers or authorised distributors.
Be Careful with Online Marketplaces
Large online marketplaces contain both genuine and counterfeit listings. This doesn't mean every listing is fake.
However, buyers should always examine:
- seller reputation
- photographs
- descriptions
- reviews
- pricing
- publisher details
If something feels unusual, take time to investigate before purchasing.
A counterfeit copy of the Lucid Dreams Beginners Tarot, offered online in a thin tuck box.
What If You Accidentally Bought a Counterfeit Deck?
Do not feel embarrassed.
Many experienced collectors have unknowingly purchased counterfeit decks.
If you discover your deck isn't authentic:
- contact the seller
- request a refund if appropriate
- report misleading listings where possible
- purchase from an authorised retailer next time
Every informed purchase helps reduce demand for counterfeit products.
Why Supporting Authentic Artists Matters
Tarot is far more than a commercial product. Every deck tells a story. Artists share personal experiences, cultural influences, mythology, spirituality and imagination through their work.
Supporting authentic creators encourages:
- artistic diversity
- innovation
- beautiful tarot decks and guidebooks
- sustainable independent publishing
- future tarot projects
The tarot community flourishes when creators are fairly rewarded.
The Guilded Veil's Commitment
At The Guilded Veil, we believe every tarot deck deserves to be treated with the same respect given to any work of art. We carefully select authentic decks from respected publishers and independent creators because we believe creativity should be celebrated, not copied. Whether you are purchasing your very first tarot deck or adding another treasured companion to your collection, you deserve the confidence of knowing that the deck in your hands is genuine.
Authenticity is more than quality, it is about honouring the artist, respecting their vision and helping ensure future generations continue to enjoy beautiful tarot creations.
Final Thoughts
Counterfeit tarot decks may look convincing at first glance, but they rarely capture the craftsmanship, quality and care that make authentic decks so special. Choosing genuine tarot cards supports artists, protects creativity and gives you a deck that has been produced with the attention it deserves.
The next time you're considering a purchase, take a few extra moments to check the source. A genuine tarot deck is not only an investment in beautiful artwork, it is an investment in the future of the tarot community itself.
Every authentic purchase helps another creator continue doing what they love: bringing meaningful, inspiring and magical decks into the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if a tarot deck is counterfeit?
Look for unusually low prices, missing guidebooks, QR codes instead of printed books, poor print quality, flimsy packaging and thin cardstock.
Are all cheap tarot decks fake?
No. Some publishers offer affordable editions, but extremely low prices on premium indie decks should be treated with caution.
Why do counterfeit tarot decks include QR codes?
Many counterfeit manufacturers replace printed guidebooks with downloadable PDFs to reduce production costs.
Is it illegal to sell counterfeit tarot decks?
In many countries, reproducing copyrighted artwork without permission infringes intellectual property rights.
Why should I buy authentic tarot decks?
Authentic decks offer superior quality while ensuring the artist and publisher receive fair compensation.
Do authentic tarot decks last longer?
Generally, yes. Premium cardstock, better coatings and quality printing make genuine decks far more durable.
Where is the safest place to buy tarot cards?
From trusted independent retailers, the artist's own website or authorised publishers.
Can beginners use authentic indie tarot decks?
Absolutely. Many independent creators design decks specifically with beginners in mind and include detailed guidebooks.
Why are authentic tarot decks more expensive?
The price reflects original artwork, professional printing, premium materials, guidebook production and fair payment to creators.
Does buying authentic really make a difference?
Yes. Every genuine purchase directly supports artists and helps fund future tarot creations.
•♡• May your path be illuminated, your intuition trusted and your cards always reveal the wisdom you seek. Until next time... welcome to The Guilded Veil •♡•