Since their launch in 1996, Pokémon cards have captivated millions of fans around the world. Some cards, which have become extremely rare over the years, now fetch astronomical sums at auction. Here's a look at the most sought-after and expensive Pokémon cards, ideal for collectors and enthusiasts.
1. The Pikachu Illustrator card: A Holy Grail for collectors
- Release date: 1998
- Gradation: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Price : $5,275,000
Among the rarest and most valuable Pokémon cards, the Pikachu Illustrator occupies a legendary place. Created in 1997 , it was awarded as a prize to the winners of an art contest organized by CoroCoro magazine in Japan.
Over the years, this card has become a true icon for collectors, reaching peaks in private and public sales. Among its famous owners is Logan Paul , who caused a sensation by wearing it as a necklace during his appearance at WrestleMania. His card also set a world record by becoming the most expensive Pokémon card ever sold in a private transaction. However, some Pokémon TCG fans remain skeptical about the authenticity of this unique piece.
Logan Paul isn't the only one to have acquired this legendary card. In October 2022 , former New York Giants football player Blake Martinez sold a copy of Pikachu Illustrator, graded 9.5 by CGC , for $672,000 at auction. Notably, this is one of the few copies not graded by PSA to have been made public, further reinforcing its aura of exclusivity.
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2. Charizard 1st Edition (Shadowless Base Set): The undisputed star
- Release date: 1995 (uncertain)
- Gradation: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Price : $493,230
This exceptional card originated in 1995 in chewing gum boxes, created by Topsun , one of the first Pokémon card manufacturers, long before the arrival of Wizards of the Coast . Due to their age and rarity, Topsun cards are highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Although PSA states that the card was released between 1995 and 1997 , this information remains to be confirmed, as neither Topsun nor Nintendo have officially validated it. The 1995 mention on the card is believed to refer to the year the Pokémon trademark was registered, rather than its actual release date.
In 2023, a copy of this card sold at a Goldin auction for an incredible $493,230 . This rare card is considered a true Holy Grail, but its rarity makes it almost unattainable for most collectors.
3. Pikachu Trophy Silver – 2nd tournament
- Release date: 1999
- Gradation: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Price : $420,000
Hailing from the very first international Pokémon TCG tournament, the Lizardon Mega Battle , held in Japan in 1998 , this trophy card is a true legend. It is estimated that only 14 copies exist worldwide, of which only 4 have been confirmed. Of these, a single card has achieved a perfect Gem Mint grade, making it even more valuable.
Unsurprisingly, this rarity has boosted its value at auction. According to specialist website Goldin , the card sold for a whopping $444,000 , cementing its status as an exceptional collectible.
4. Charizard Holo Shadowless from the Base Set – 1st Edition
- Release date: 1999
- Gradation: PSA – Gem Mint 10
- Price : $420,000
Charizard, the iconic star of the Pokémon TCG base set, is the ultimate dream of many collectors. Its first edition shadowless version is particularly coveted. This detail, considered a “defect” of the first printings in the United States, makes this card even more rare and valuable, especially in holographic form.
On October 9, 2020, rapper Logic made a splash by paying over $226,000 for a Gem Mint 10 graded copy, setting an impressive record. Since then, the auction has continued to climb, reaching a phenomenal price of $420,000 in 2022 at a PWCC sale.
According to experts, there are only 21 copies of Shadowless Holo Charizard 1st Edition that have achieved a perfect Gem Mint 10 rating, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after Pokémon cards in the world.
5. Tortank Commissioned Presentation – Galaxy Star Holo
- Release date: 1998
- Gradation: CGC – Near Mint/Mint 8.5
- Price : $360,000
Created in 1998 by Wizards of the Coast , the Blastoise Presentation card was used to give stores a sneak peek at the upcoming Pokémon TCG lineup before their official launch. Due to its unique role, this card is now considered one of the rarest and most mysterious in the game's history.
The exact number of copies in circulation remains unknown, but rumors suggest only a handful of copies. One fascinating anecdote even claims that one copy of this card sports a Magic: The Gathering -branded card back, reinforcing its unique status.
At a 2021 auction held by Heritage Auctions , this legendary card fetched an incredible $360,000 . Virtually impossible to find, it remains an unattainable dream for most Pokémon collectors.
Why are these cards so expensive?
Several factors influence the value of a Pokémon card: Rarity : The harder a card is to find, the more valuable it becomes. Condition : Cards in mint condition (rated PSA 10) command the highest prices. History : Some cards, like the Pikachu Illustrator, have a unique story that enhances their sentimental and financial value. Collector demand : Popular or iconic cards are always more sought after.
Investing in Pokémon Cards: A Lucrative Bet
The popularity of Pokémon cards continues to grow, and their value continues to rise. Whether you're looking to start a collection or invest, it's crucial to research market trends and verify the authenticity of the cards before purchasing. So, are you ready to start your treasure hunt?
