Understanding Gift Card Rates: Which Card Offers the Most Value?

Gift cards are a convenient and flexible way to give or receive money, whether it’s for birthdays, holidays, or just a quick thank-you. However, when it comes to gift card rates, not all cards offer the same return.

Over the past few years, I’ve traded different types of gift cards—some gave me immense value, but others didn’t quite measure up. That experience taught me that if you’re not paying attention to brand demand, seasonal trends, or resale platforms, you could be losing money without realizing it.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to spot gift cards with the highest resale or trade-in value so you get more for your money, whether you’re buying, selling, or just planning.

What are Gift Card Rates?

Gift card rates refer to the resale or exchange value you receive when trading or selling a gift card. It’s the amount of money or bonus received after redeeming your present voucher, and it often depends on the demand for that card, the brand, and the exchange platform used.

Factors That Affect Gift Card Value

Several factors influence the rate or value of a gift card when you’re looking to sell or trade it. Here is what matters:

1. Brand Popularity and Demand

Gift cards from major brands like Amazon, Visa, or Apple usually have higher rates because they’re widely accepted and in demand. On the other hand, niche or lesser-known brands may have a lower resale value and could offer better deals if they lack redemption restrictions and fees, even if their original price is the same.

When deciding which gift card to buy, consider both the potential value of the card based on its brand popularity and the limitations it imposes when redeeming rewards.

2. Retailer Promotions and Bonuses

Retailers often offer special promotions, such as bonuses or discounts, when purchasing their cards. These offers can indirectly boost the value of the gift card when reselling or redeeming it.

3. Seasonal Trends

Special holidays and shopping seasons (such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or Back-to-School) tend to increase demand for certain gift cards, thereby improving their resale value. Timing matters.

4. Partnerships and Collaborations

By partnering with other brands or organizations, retailers can create attractive deals available through specific channels, such as unique collaborations, which lead to increased value when redeeming applicable gift cards. This encourages recipients to purchase eligible products and services at reduced prices.

Gift Cards With the Highest Rates in Nigeria [Year]

Now that we understand the concept of gift card rates and the factors that affect them, here is a breakdown of some of the gift cards that currently offer the highest resale rates in Nigeria via the Nosh app:

1. Visa Gift Cards

Visa gift cards are highly versatile—you can use them almost anywhere credit cards are accepted. This gift card is also among the most valuable when reselling.

A pre-loaded amount appears on the card before purchase. The initial fee typically ranges from $2.95 to $6.95 based on the amount loaded onto the card; however, this fee is not charged again with each use, unlike some other debit cards.

The table below represents the current price of Visa gift cards in Nigeria on the Nosh app.

Amount Rate

$50 – ₦22,000

$100 – ₦52,500

$200 – ₦105,000

$300 – ₦160,500

2. Amazon Gift Cards

Gift cards come in various types and values, with Amazon being one of the most popular options.

Amazon gift cards are consistently in demand. Canadian and UK variants generally offer higher resale rates in Nigeria than U.S. ones.

These prepaid money cards can be purchased in person or online, often without any fee associated, and are accepted as payment for goods on Amazon and potentially elsewhere.

Furthermore, unlike other branded credit or debit cards, an Amazon gift card does not require prior approval for use, simplifying the shopping experience for customers.

Currently, the price of a $100 Canadian Amazon (cash receipt) gift card is about ₦32,000 on the Nosh app, and the price of a $200 Canadian Amazon (debit/no receipt) gift card is ₦60,000.

The table below represents the current price of Amex cards in Nigeria.

Amount Rates

UK Amazon $100            –          ₦45,000

US Amazon Ecode $100 –          ₦11,000

UK Amazon Ecode $100 –          ₦28,000

3. American Express (AmEx) Gift Cards

An American Express gift card gives excellent value and flexibility to its recipient. It is widely accepted and used in most locations that accept Amex gift cards without additional fees or restrictions, similar to a regular credit or debit card.

The gift card is applicable in various ways, including for groceries, online shopping, gas stations, and more, with no usage limits.

Additionally, given its compatibility across countries, AmEx gift cards work even while traveling outside the United States border, enabling international shoppers to take advantage of these wonderful gifts.

The table below represents the current price of Amex cards in Nigeria on the Nosh app.

Amount Rates

$100 AmEx Ecode – ₦22,000

$200 AmEx Ecode  – ₦60,000

$300 AmEx Ecode   – ₦105,000

4. Retailer-Specific Gift Cards

These cards are a perfect gift option, but they may not offer the same value as other types of gift cards. Their main advantage is availability. These include cards from fashion stores, eateries, or gaming platforms that accept plastic payments.

These cards are convenient to find and use, but restrictions and single-store redemption can cause their rates to vary.

Retailer-specific gift cards often come with fees, such as activation charges or expiration costs, which can diminish their overall value if they remain unused for extended periods.

You can use the Nosh rate calculator to check the latest value for a specific retailer card.

How To Maximize Gift Card Value

Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your gift cards:

1. Use Them Early

Don’t sit on gift cards. According to First Data, over $15 billion worth of gift cards go unused annually. Estimates $116 lost per person due to expiration or devaluation.

Using gift cards promptly is essential, as some may lose value or become inactive if left unused.

2. Avoid Cards With Extra Fees

When it comes to gift cards, one of the most important considerations is the fees associated with redeeming and using them, including activation fees, maintenance fees, and transaction fees.

Before buying, check if there are any activation, maintenance, or inactivity fees associated with the card. These hidden charges can eat into the card’s value.

Whenever you can, go for a card with no activation or monthly fees so you get the full value without unnecessary deductions

3. Trade or Sell on Reliable Platforms

If you receive a card you don’t need, consider selling or swapping it. It could be an excellent way to maximize the value of any unwanted gift cards. Nosh offers a secure environment to sell unused gift cards for cash.

Websites like Cardpool and eBay can also be effective. eBay allows you to trade unused gift card balances with other eBay buyers; however, keep in mind that buyers on eBay usually purchase gift cards at 80-90% of their face value.

Cardpool accepts gift cards with values from $25 to $1,000 for most major retailers. However, prospective sellers should be aware that there are often fees associated with the transaction.

4. Look for Promotions

Some cards come with purchase bonuses. For example, Visa may offer an extra $5 credit with a $25 card. Amazon and American Express occasionally offer cashback and discount promotions, with AmEx providing 10% off select purchases and Amazon giving customers up to 10% back with their Cashback Credit Cards.

Note: It’s essential to read all terms and conditions thoroughly before proceeding with any gift card transaction to avoid unexpected charges and ensure a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Gift Card Rates

1. Which gift card has the highest resale value in Nigeria?

Visa and Amazon gift cards tend to have the highest resale value in Nigeria, especially on platforms like Nosh. Visa cards are more versatile, while Canadian and UK Amazon cards typically offer better rates than their U.S. counterparts.

2. Where is the best place to sell gift cards in Nigeria?

Trusted online trading platforms are a reliable option. One of the standout choices is Nosh, which offers competitive rates, quick payouts, and secure transactions.

3. How can I check the current value of a gift card?

You can use tools like the Nosh rate calculator to check up-to-date resale values. With this, you avoid underselling and choose the best time and platform for maximum returns.

Final Thoughts

Gift cards can be a quick source of cash—if you know which ones to sell and where to sell them. Focus on popular cards like Visa, Amazon, or AmEx for the best resale value in Nigeria.

If you’re unsure about platforms that provide secure and fair transactions while also being mindful of timing and potential hidden fees, Nosh is one of the most reliable marketplaces to sell gift cards for cash.

Nosh offers competitive rates on popular gift card brands, supports multiple payment methods, and ensures secure transactions with 24/7 customer support.

Getting the best rate isn’t just about luck—it’s about knowing what to look for. Sign up on Nosh today to get started.