The Pokémon TCG (Trading Card Game) has retained its popularity for nearly three decades, with both vintage and modern cards accumulating significant value among collectors. In this article, we will explore some of the most expensive TCG sales to date.
When evaluating card rarity in the Pokémon TCG, several factors like condition, age, scarcity, and print numbers come into play to assess a card’s value. Interestingly, cards from newer sets can be just as valuable as those from the ’90s, depending on their grading or pull rates.
Various Pokémon cards can now fetch life-altering amounts, depending on which packs you purchase and the sets you focus on. Here are the rarest and most expensive Pokémon cards in the TCG market for 2024.
Top 40 Rarest and Most Expensive Pokémon Cards to Watch (2024)
It’s crucial to note that the market for rare cards is constantly shifting. We have analyzed auction data and historical records from price charting websites to compile our list, but be aware that card prices change frequently.
If you’re a collector on the hunt for high-value cards, it’s wise to shop around and conduct thorough research. Partnering with a reliable local game store can significantly enhance the process of authenticating rare Pokémon cards.
40. Royal Mask (085/SM-P)
Royal Mask (085/SM-P) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2017
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $4,500
This promotional card from the Sun & Moon series of the Pokémon TCG was distributed in Japan in 2017 to participants who won Shining Legends Sealed Games at select stores and Pokémon Centers throughout July and August.
As a promotional item awarded only to winners, its rarity is compounded by featuring a popular character, elevating its market value. While it may not top the list, it still garners impressive auction prices. A perfect, graded copy of this card fetched $4,500 at a PSA auction in 2019.
39. Crystal Charizard Holo (First Edition) (089/088)
Crystal Charizard (First Edition) (089/088) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2002
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $8,700
Both the Japanese and English versions of this card are included, and there’s a solid reason for that. Beyond its obvious appeal due to Charizard’s popularity, the Mysterious Mountains expansion set signifies the conclusion of the e-Card era in Japan, making this set a coveted item among collectors.
The Crystal Type adds even more value, particularly following the introduction of the new Stellar Tera-type in the Pokémon TCG. For those unaware, Stellar Pokémon bear mechanical similarities to Crystal Pokémon, boosting interest in this card type further.
A perfectly graded version of this card sold for $11,500 in a PSA auction in 2023, although this figure has dipped in 2024. A PSA Gem Mint 10 copy was recently listed for $8,700 on eBay.
38. Shining Charizard (First Edition) (107/105)
Shining Charizard (First Edition) (107/105) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2002
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $9,256
The running joke within the Pokémon community suggests that a “Charizard tax”exists, and this trend persists even today with various new sets and product launches. Charizard has always been a fan-favorite Pokémon and is often a powerful card, making this piece retain high value.
The Neo Destiny expansion was particularly popular since it signified the end of the Neo era, and this specific set was the last English expansion to feature the 1st Edition symbol, enhancing this card’s rarity and worth.
We found a recorded sale of $11,040 for a perfect, graded copy on Goldin’s auction site from 2022, but the card appears to have slightly declined in value by 2024 with a PSA Gem Mint 10 sale recorded at $9,256.20 in July according to PSA.
37. Fan Club Shining Magikarp 600 Points Holo
Shining Magikarp Holo Pokémon Fan Club card.
- Release Date: 2000-2002
- Grading: BGS – Gem Mint 9.5
- Pokémon card value at auction: $14,000
Though typically deemed a weaker Pokémon, Magikarp boasts some of the coolest rare cards in the TCG. Initially released as part of the Awakening Legends expansion set in Japan in 2000, it was later re-issued as an unnumbered promo card via the Pokémon Fan Club.
This card was awarded to players who earned 600 GET points from 2001 to 2002, which makes it exceptionally rare. In a PWCC auction, a BGS Gem Mint 9.5 copy sold for $14,000.
36. Base Set Mewtwo Holo (Shadowless) (First Edition)
Base Set Mewtwo Holo (Shadowless) (First Edition) (10/102) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $15,000
Many seasoned Pokémon fans might be surprised to see Mewtwo ranked relatively low on this list. Despite being one of the most formidable Legendary Pokémon, it isn’t necessarily the rarest Pokémon card. Its First Edition marker and high-grade status substantially contribute to this Mewtwo card’s value.
A recent auction on PWCC for a PSA Gem Mint 10 version of this iconic card concluded at $15,000. Mewtwo, in addition to being a favorite among fans, is also a treasured item for Base Set collectors, which adds to its elevated price tag.
35. Crystal Charizard Holo (146/144)
- Release Date: 2003
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $14,169
The Pokémon card market had begun to decline by 2003, leading to a reduced production run for the Skyridge set compared to its predecessors.
This was also the final set produced by Wizards of the Coast and showcases the iconic e-Reader designs intended to connect with the Game Boy Advance. The card’s limited print run has established the vintage set as one of the most valuable Pokémon products from that time.
The highlight of this expansion is none other than Charizard. The Japanese version is popular, but this iteration was equally revered. A flawlessly graded variant of this card sold for $25,100 at a PWCC auction in November 2020.
Since then, higher-quality versions have surfaced on different platforms, one notably going for $20,300 in January 2024. Prices have since dropped; one eBay sale logged it at $14,169 despite maintaining its PSA Gem Mint 10 status.
34. Charizard Gold Star Holo (100/101)
Charizard Gold Star Holo (100/101) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2006
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $17,301
It’s no surprise that this remarkable Charizard card is popular among collectors. As a Gold Star card featuring a unique Charizard variant along with powerful attacks, it has drawn significant attention.
This card has undergone significant price fluctuations in 2024. Initially, one auction listing we reviewed showed varying prices, with a PSA Gem Mint 10 example selling for a staggering $60,065.85. However, prices have since dropped, and it’s now commonly sold for around $17K; a recent example was auctioned at $17,301.
33. Daisuki Club Master’s Scroll 8,600 Points Holo (055/LP)
Daisuki Club 8,600 Points Holo Master’s Scroll (055/LP) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2010
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $20,300
The Daisuki Club was established in 2004 for Pokémon fans, featuring a ranking system based on Action Points (AP). Members could earn points by engaging in tournaments, quizzes, and other activities, aiming for ranks like Gold (1,200 AP) and Super (3,200 AP).
Reaching the Master rank required players to gather an impressive 8,600 AP, which rewarded them with the Master’s Scroll card, now regarded as one of the rarest Pokémon cards associated with a fan club.
PWCC’s initial auction noted that only 59 copies had been graded by PSA when published, contributing to its rarity. The auction concluded with a final price of $15,600.
32. Espeon Gold Star (025/PLAY)
Espeon Gold Star POP Series 5 (025/PLAY) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2007
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $22,100
This Espeon Gold Star card emerged from POP Series 5 (short for Pokémon Organized Play). These cards were promotional materials for tournament events, and the Gold Star Eeveelutions are somewhat scarce.
Additionally, being in shiny form and sporting the Gold Star symbol enhances its value. We found a PSA auction listing from 2021 that concluded with a $22,100 price tag for a Gem Mint 10 version.
31. Base Set Poliwrath Holo (No Rarity Symbol)
Base Set Poliwrath holo with no rarity symbol Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1996
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $25,015
Classic Pokémon cards are always prized among collectors, with this specific piece lacking a rarity symbol and being a holo, which boosts its value significantly. Poliwrath also enjoys a strong fan base among fans of the original 151 Pokémon.
We located a PSA auction listing from 2020 where a perfect condition, graded version of this card fetched $25,015.
30. Torchic Gold Star Holo (108/109)
Torchic Gold Star Holo (108/109) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2004
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $25,400
In 2004, The Pokémon Company introduced “Gold Star” Pokémon cards to reignite interest in collecting. These cards had low print runs and debuted alongside the underrated Team Rocket Returns expansion.
Due to its immense popularity, the Fire-type starter Torchic quickly became one of the rarest Pokémon cards released that year. A PSA auction listing recording a sale of $25,400 for a PSA Gem Mint 10 version was noted in 2021.
29. Spikey-Eared Pichu Japanese Design 2nd Grade Winner
Japanese Design 2nd Grade Winner Spikey Pichu promo Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2009
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $25,800
This card has a unique backstory, drawn by a second grader for a Shogakukan magazine contest celebrating the release of the movie “Arceus and the Jewel of Life.”
While the exact number of copies is unclear, it’s likely that under 100 exist. Highly adorable and perfect for fans of Pokémon movies, this card was auctioned for $25,800 in June 2023.
28. 20th Anniversary Festa Pikachu Participation Prize (279/XY-P)
20th Anniversary Festa Pikachu Participation Prize (279/XY-P) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2016
- Grading: BGS – Pristine Black Label 10 (Pop. 4)
- Pokémon card value at auction: $32,520
This card was distributed in Japan in 2016 to participants of the 20th Anniversary Festa, which took place in various locations in October. Event promos are typically highly regarded by collectors, and this piece’s value is further elevated due to the inclusion of Gen 1 starters.
A high-quality version of this card sold at auction for $32,520. It boasts a BGS Pristine Black Label 10 rating, and auction site Goldin notes that only three other cards of such high grade are recorded.
27. Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy
Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2002
- Grading: BGS – Near Mint 7.5
- Pokémon card value at auction: $34,100
Launched in Sapporo, Japan, the 2002 Neo Summer Battle Road tournament featured some of the world’s best players competing. Those who placed second received the rare Number 2 Trainer Trophy card.
The inherent rarity of these Trophy cards adds to their allure—only a handful ever produced. One card from the 2002 Summer tournament appeared for auction at PWCC in March 2021, reaching an impressive $34,100.
Notably, this rare card also bears the name of the second-place winner, Fukunishi Tomoki, and features Ken Sugimori’s remarkable artwork from the E-Series format during the 2002 era of the TCG.
26. Rayquaza Gold Star Holo (107/107)
Rayquaza Gold Star Holo Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2005
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $34,400
Rayquaza, a favorite from Ruby & Sapphire, has gained popularity over the past decade. This particular card exemplifies a stunning Rayquaza from the EX Deoxys expansion set.
To generate interest in the set, the Japanese company introduced “Gold Star” Pokémon cards, which feature special emblems next to the Pokémon’s name and are highly sought after by collectors.
The latest sale for this card recorded a price of $34,400 for a PSA Gem Mint 10 grade, indicating substantial value fluctuations over the years.
25. Topps Chrome Series 1 Tekno Charizard
Topps Chrome Series 1 Tekno Charizard Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2000
- Grading: PSA – 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $35,000
This card stands apart from typical Pokémon cards, contributing to its high price. Topps cards are not legal for Pokémon tournaments, but they are vintage collector’s items showcasing fan-favorite Pokémon.
This particular card is from Topps’ Chrome promo series, released in 2000. Beyond the allure of the Charizard name, these cards possess high quality and durability with an intriguing Topps Chrome logo placement.
A listing on Price Charting noted that a PSA 10 version of this card fetched $35,000 at auction.
24. Base Set Chansey Holo (First Edition) (Shadowless) (03/102)
Base Set Chansey Holo (First Edition) (Shadowless) (03/102)
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $36,877
This rare card combines the features of being a Base Set, Shadowless, and a First Edition, making it a highly sought-after item over the years.
This card’s production flaws, particularly with its holo section, make it challenging to find in good condition. A PSA Gem Mint 10 version was listed on PWCC for $36,877, although lower-quality versions may be available for less. The scarcity of the good-condition copies is likely responsible for spiking the auction price.
23. Base Set Blastoise Holo (Shadowless) (First Edition) (02/102)
Base Set Holo Shadowless First Edition Blastoise (02/102) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $45,100
While Charizard usually garners the spotlight among Gen 1 Starter Pokémon, Blastoise boasts a dedicated following as well. This card is a First Edition Holo from the Base Set, a beautiful addition to any collection of the original 151 Pokémon.
A recording from 2020 on PWCC showed this prized card selling for $45,100. Price fluctuations are expected, depending on the condition and platform from which it is purchased, with Base Set prices varying significantly throughout 2024.
22. Tropical Mega Battle No. 2 Trainer
Tropical Mega Battle No. 2 Trainer Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Authentic
- Pokémon card value at auction: $50,300
This card, while graded as ‘Authentic’ and in less than stellar condition, is a remarkably rare collectible coveted by collectors around the world. It was originally awarded at the Mega Battle tournament in 1999, only given to top players. With only five copies graded by PSA, it stands as an immensely rare poker card.
A PWCC listing in October 2020 featured a price tag of $50,300 for this exceptionally scarce card, indicating its lasting desirability.
21. Base Set Venusaur Holo (No Rarity Symbol)(Autographed)
Base Set Venusaur Holo (No Rarity Symbol)(Autographed) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1996
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $55,000
The original Japanese Base Set lacked rarity symbols that marked the English counterparts with First Edition stamps. These “No Rarity”cards are valuable collectibles collectors are willing to spend substantially for.
This graded card stands out due to the signature from the original artist Mitsuhiro Arita on its casing. According to PSA, it is one of only five in this fantastic condition worldwide.
We found a PWCC auction listing where this autographed gem concluded for a stunning $55,000.
20. Summer Battle Road Mew Victory Orb Trophy
Summer Battle Road Mew Victory Orb Trophy case and Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Item value at auction: $60,000
Trophy cards are immensely valuable within the collector community, and this specific one was awarded during the 1998 Summer Battle Road competition, spanning nine regions in Japan. Champions in each category received this prestigious card.
According to PSA, only 16 cards have achieved a perfect Gem Mint 10 grade, signifying their scarcity and historical importance. Its stunning design elevates its already valuable status.
Upon verifying auction listings, a PWCC listing illustrates how this piece along with its original trophy case reached a price tag of $60,000, marking it as a must-have for serious collectors.
19. 64 Mario Stadium Best Photo Contest Chansey
64 Mario Stadium Best Photo Contest Chansey Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: BGS – Near Mint 8.5
- Item value at auction: $63,000
This card is among the rarest contest prizes from the Pokémon Snap promotional photo contest in 1999. With no more than 20 copies in existence for each winner, these cards are hard to find and consequently, extremely valuable.
We identified a PWCC listing resulting in a staggering $63,000 auction price, showcasing its rarity and desirability.
18. Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind Promo
Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind Promo Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $65,100
While not as flashy as some others on the list, the Tropical Mega Battle promo is highly coveted by Psyduck fans and features another fan-favorite, Jigglypuff.
This card was awarded at the Tropical Mega Battle event in 1999; only 50 players received the honor of participating. This specific Trophy card holds a prestigious place among Pokémon collectibles.
We found a PWCC listing where it closed out at a substantial price of $65,100 at auction.
17. 2010 Pokémon World Championship Master’s Key
- Release Date: 2010
- Grading: BGS – Gem Mint 9.5
- Pokémon card value at auction: $66,000
Participants in the 2010 Pokémon World Championships held in Waikoloa Village, Hawaii, were given a Master’s Key Pokémon card as a token of their attendance.
Only 36 of these cards were printed, making them incredibly rare. Auction listings verify that collectors are willing to pay a premium for such unique items. A PWCC auction demonstrated its value at a closing price of $66,000.
16. Tamamushi University Magikarp Trophy Promo
Tamamushi University Magikarp Trophy Promo Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1998
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $66,100
During this event, a Pokémon TCG tournament was held, and winning players received this card, a hallmark of Pokémon rarity. Only approximately 70 copies of this card are estimated to exist.
The final auction price recorded for this card was $66,100 via PWCC, reinforcing its reputation as a highly sought-after collectible.
15. 64 Mario Stadium Best Photo Contest Gyarados
64 Mario Stadium Best Photo Contest Gyarados Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: CGC – Gem Mint 9.5
- Pokémon card value at auction: $87,500
This card was similarly generated as part of the Pokémon Snap photo contest and is now an exceptionally rare artifact among collectors. Featuring Gyarados, it stands out visually and is highly dynamic in design.
A specific copy of this card sold for an impressive $87,500 in an auction held by Heritage Auctions in July 2023.
14. No. 1 Trainer Super Secret Battle
No. 1 Trainer Super Secret Battle Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $90,000
In 1999, The Pokémon Company hosted regional competitions in Japan where winners were awarded a coveted No. 1 Trainer Pokémon card, which granted them access to finals held in secret sites.
This thrilling set-up matched the card’s rarity, as we found a Heritage Auctions listing that valued it at $90,000, reflecting the card’s scarcity and unique significance.
13. Extra Battle Day Full Art Lillie (397/SM-P)
Extra Battle Day Full Art Lillie Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2019
- Grading: PSA – 10, Gem Mint
- Pokémon card value at auction: $108,000
The value of this card derives from its limited availability. The only way to acquire it was by winning a chance to pull it from an exclusive Booster Pack distributed at the Japanese Extra Battle Day event in 2019.
To qualify for this exclusive pack, players first had to compete and rank based on their scores and prize cards. The finals concluded with players winning a game of rock-paper-scissors to gain a chance at drawing Lillie.
With art from a beloved creator, Naoki Saito, and Lillie’s popularity as a character, we tracked down a PWCC auction that culminated at $108,000 in 2023.
12. Pokémon World Championships Promo No. 2 Trainer
Pokémon World Championships Promo No. 2 Trainer Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2006
- Grading: PSA – 9
- Pokémon card value at auction: $110,100
This remarkable trophy card was awarded at the 2006 World Championship in Anaheim, California. Given only to winners, this card is rarely seen in the wild, which has driven its value sky-high.
Only about three copies of this card are believed to exist, amplifying its scarcity. PWCC secured an auction price of $110,100 for this elusive card.
11. Toshiyuki Yamaguchi No. 2 Trainer Card
Toshiyuki Yamaguchi No. 2 Trainer Pokémon Card.
- Release Date: 2000
- Grading: CGC – Near Mint 8
- Pokémon card value at auction: $137,500
One-of-a-kind cards are a rarity in the Pokémon world, yet this trainer card emerged as the prize for the second-place winner of the Japanese World Summer Challenge in 2000.
While cards were made for the top three trainers, this particular copy makes its way into the grading community. In 2023, it commanded a staggering $137,500 at auction according to Heritage Auctions.
10. Lugia Holo (09/111) (First Edition)
Lugia Holo (09/111) (First Edition) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2000
- Grading: BGS – Pristine 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $144,300
This Lugia card exemplifies the exceptional quality found within the iconic Neo Genesis expansion set. Nostalgic for many, this card is rare and valuable due to its low print run and high grading standards.
A recent auction by PWCC saw this card sell for an impressive $144,300, highlighting the worth collectors assign to pristine examples from the Neo Genesis series.
9. Kangaskhan Family Event Trophy Holo
Kangaskhan Family Event Trophy Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1998
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $150,000
This 1998 Trophy Pokémon card can only be acquired by participating in special tournaments in Japan and stands among the highest valued Pokémon cards still today. The card’s design features adorableness paired with sparkling visuals.
Significantly, the contest necessitated that both a child and their parent compete as a team. Owning one is rare as there are believed to be only 11 graded copies of this card in accordance with PSA standards, making this entry a true gem among collectibles.
This rare card was recently seen in a 2020 eBay auction that concluded with a significant final price of $150,000.
8. Umbreon Gold Star Holo (026/PLAY)
Umbreon Gold Star Holo (026/PLAY) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2005
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $180,000
Umbreon features on numerous popular and rare Pokémon cards, and this particular version has achieved an impressive auction price of $180,000 in 2024.
This card, like the previously mentioned Espeon Gold Star, required players to earn 70,000 points in the Pokémon Player’s Club to obtain it, making the process challenging.
7. Ishihara GX Black Star Promo (Autographed)
Ishihara GX Promo (Autographed) Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 2017
- Grading: PSA – Near Mint 7 / Autograph 9
- Pokémon card value at auction: $247, 230
This unique card showcases Tsunekazu Ishihara, the CEO and President of The Pokémon Company. Issued to attendees at the executive’s birthday celebration in 2017, it has drawn considerable attention from collectors due to its limited availability.
While the card is rare, speculation suggests only 30-60 copies exist. A signed example we found at Goldin Auctions sold for an astounding $247,230.
6. Pikachu No. 3 Trainer Bronze Trophy Card
Pikachu No. 3 Trainer Bronze Trophy Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1997
- Grading: PSA – Near Mint 8
- Pokémon card value at auction: $300,000
Highlighting the notable appeal of Trophy cards, this card became a standout example of what collectors are willing to pay for unique artifacts.
During the inaugural Pokémon TCG tournament in 1997, special Trophy Pikachu cards were awarded to top finishers in each division. With fewer than 100 printed, rarity plays a pivotal role in its marketability. A sale in 2023 reflected its demand at auction, resulting in a resounding $300,000 according to Heritage Auctions.
5. Blastoise Wizards of the Coast Presentation Galaxy Star Holo
Blastoise Wizards of the Coast Presentation Galaxy Star Holo Pokémon card.
- Release Date: 1998
- Grading: CGC – Near Mint/Mint 8.5
- Pokémon card value at auction: $360,000
Initially commissioned by Wizards of the Coast in 1998, the Blastoise Presentation card was intended to showcase what the TCG line would look like in its finalized print run. This card is exceedingly rare, with an unknown number of copies believed to exist—one example even reported to have a Magic: The Gathering back.
An auction at Heritage Auctions in 2021 saw this prestigious item sold for a stunning $360,000, demonstrating how much collectors are willing to invest in their Pokémon card collections.
2. Topsun Charizard Blue Back Card
Topsun Charizard Blue Back Card.
- Release Date: 1995 (Debated)
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $493,230
This promotional card was discovered in gum packages back in 1995, created by Topsun prior to Wizards of the Coast’s involvement, enhancing its desirability.
Although there are discrepancies regarding the release date as documented by PSA, it’s recognized this card is highly sought after among collectors due to its rich history. In 2023, the card fetched $493,230 at auction via Goldin, showcasing how rare pieces maintain their value.
1. Illustrator CoroCoro Comics Promo (Pikachu Illustrator card)
Pikachu Illustrator card, alongside Logan Paul with the world record certificate.
- Release Date: 1998
- Grading: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Pokémon card value at auction: $5,275,000
Currently, one of the most prized Pokémon cards globally is the elusive Pikachu Illustrator card. This unique piece was awarded to winners of an art contest held by CoroCoro magazine in 1997.
The card has seen dramatic auction prices over the years, particularly after being spotlighted by celebrity Logan Paul, who wore it on a chain during his Wrestlemania debut.
Paul also achieved a world record for the highest price of a Pokémon card sold at private sale. However, some fans have expressed skepticism regarding the authenticity of his card.
Notably, former New York Giants player Blake Martinez sold his CGC 9.5 graded Pikachu Illustrator for $672,000 in October 2022, marking a significant achievement for non-PSA graded copies.
This solicits the overarching theme: the Pokémon TCG has thrived for decades, and its appeal continues to grow.
Fans of the Pokémon TCG show great dedication in seeking out stunning and rare cards. Each item discussed in this article represents a piece of gaming and pop culture history, with some being worthy of any museum display.
What Makes Pokémon Cards Valuable?
Popular Pokémon YouTuber Leonhart is known for possessing some of the most valuable cards globally.
Numerous factors play a role when evaluating card value—this often varies across different sets, making it essential to consider these elements carefully:
- Expansion and Set: Some Pokémon expansions naturally carry greater value than others. Although an older set may not guarantee high prices, vintage pieces are often worth more than contemporary ones. Additionally, smaller card lists and limited print runs can enhance value.
- Quality: While fairly straightforward, card quality remarkably influences pricing. Damage—however minor—can significantly affect a card’s market value. Cards in mint condition are notably rare.
- Rarity Symbol: The Pokémon TCG includes various rarity types, from Double Rares to Ultra Rares, denoted by rarity symbols. Unsurprisingly, finding cards with rarer symbols typically boosts their value.
- Artist and Art Style: Full-art cards with vivid artwork by popular TCG artists are more coveted and valuable.
Additional elements like promotional stamps or connections to specific stories (e.g., the Van Gogh promo Pikachu With Grey Felt Hat) can enhance demand and worth.
To broaden your understanding of the Pokémon TCG, consider familiarizing yourself with Special Conditions, stalling techniques, and various card categories such as ACE SPECs and Trainer cards. A deeper grasp of game mechanics will contribute to your overall understanding of this vibrant TCG universe.
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