Packz

June 18, 2026

The 7 Most Expensive Pokémon Cards Ever Sold

Find out which expensive Pokémon cards have set auction records and what makes them so valuable to collectors and investors in the Pokémon card market.

The 7 Most Expensive Pokémon Cards Ever Sold

You’ve seen the headlines: a single Pokémon card sells for the price of a house. It’s easy to be captivated by the sheer spectacle of it all. What started as a playground pastime has evolved into a legitimate alternative asset class, with collectors and investors alike chasing after the rarest pieces of cardboard. But what truly makes these cards so valuable? It’s a combination of rarity, historical significance, and pristine condition. In this article, we’ll look at the most expensive Pokémon cards ever sold and break down exactly why they command such incredible prices, helping you understand the forces driving this exciting market.

Key Takeaways

  • Look beyond rarity: A card's value is determined by a mix of factors, not just one. Consider its condition, the character's popularity, and historical significance to get a full picture of its worth.
  • Prioritize condition and professional grading: A card's physical state is a massive driver of its price. Getting a card graded provides objective proof of its condition and authenticity, which is what serious collectors pay for.
  • Protect your investment with research: Don't take listing prices at face value. Always check a card's recent sales data and its population report to understand its true market value and scarcity.

Unpacking the Most Expensive Pokémon Cards Ever Sold

From childhood binders to high-stakes auction houses, Pokémon cards have captured the hearts of collectors for decades. While many of us remember trading common cards on the playground, a select few have become legendary, commanding prices that can rival fine art or luxury cars. These cards are the holy grails of the hobby, defined by their extreme rarity, pristine condition, and cultural significance. Let's take a look at some of the heavy hitters that have broken records and left the collecting world in awe. These are the cards that dreams, and massive bank accounts, are made of.

1998 Pikachu Illustrator

Often called the "Holy Grail" of Pokémon cards, the Pikachu Illustrator is the undisputed king of value. This card wasn't available in any pack; it was awarded to winners of a 1998 illustration contest in Japan. With only around 39 copies known to exist, its rarity is legendary. The card has fetched an astonishing $16,492,000, making it the most valuable Pokémon card ever sold. Only one copy is recognized as being in perfect condition, making it a truly unique and priceless piece of Pokémon history. Its incredible value solidifies its status as one of the top Pokémon cards to collect.

1999 Base Set 1st Edition Charizard

For many collectors, this is the card. The 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard from the original Base Set is arguably the most iconic card in the entire hobby. Its fiery artwork and status as the original powerhouse Pokémon make it a nostalgic favorite. While thousands were printed, finding one in perfect, gem mint condition is incredibly difficult. With only about 124 perfect copies known, a pristine example has sold for $550,000. This Charizard represents the pinnacle of 90s Pokémon collecting and remains a cornerstone for any serious investor or fan looking to own a piece of the game's origins.

1999 Secret Super Battle No. 1 Trainer

If you're looking for rarity, it doesn't get much more exclusive than this. The Secret Super Battle No. 1 Trainer card was given to the winners of regional tournaments in Japan in 1999, granting them access to a secret final competition. Only seven of these cards were ever produced, and six are known to be in perfect condition. One of these incredibly rare Pokémon cards has sold for $156,000. Its scarcity and unique history as a literal key to a secret tournament make it one of the most sought-after and fascinating trophy cards in existence. Owning one is like owning a piece of competitive Pokémon history.

2000 Lugia Neo Genesis 1st Edition

Lugia quickly became a fan favorite after its debut in Pokémon the Movie 2000 and the Pokémon Silver video game. The 1st Edition Neo Genesis Holo Lugia is notoriously difficult to grade due to common printing errors and foil issues, making mint condition copies exceptionally rare. This beloved legendary Pokémon has seen its card value soar, with sales reaching $144,300. The combination of its beautiful holographic artwork, the character's popularity, and the sheer difficulty of finding a flawless copy has cemented this card's place among the most expensive and desirable cards from its era.

Other Noteworthy Record-Breakers

While the cards above are titans, other sales have also made headlines. YouTuber Logan Paul famously acquired a Pikachu Illustrator card, with the total transaction valued at over $16 million, highlighting the massive cultural and financial impact of these collectibles. The core principle driving these prices is simple: rarity. The foundation of what makes a Pokémon card valuable is scarcity. Cards with low pull rates or limited print runs, like trophy cards or special event promos, often have the highest potential value. As the market continues to mature, these rare pieces of cardboard are increasingly seen as legitimate alternative assets, proving that Pokémon is much more than just a game.

What Makes a Pokémon Card Valuable?

Figuring out what makes one Pokémon card worth a few cents and another worth a small fortune can feel like a puzzle. It’s rarely just one thing. Instead, a card's value comes from a mix of factors that all work together. Is it rare? Is it old? Is it a fan-favorite character? Understanding these key ingredients will help you spot true treasures and make smarter choices as a collector. Whether you're hunting for vintage gems or chasing modern hits, knowing what to look for is the first step toward building a collection you can be proud of.

Rarity and Print Run

Rarity is the bedrock of a Pokémon card's value. Think of it in terms of basic supply and demand. If a card was hard to find from the start, it’s more likely to be valuable later on. This is often tied to its "pull rate," or how frequently it appeared in booster packs. Cards with low pull rates, like Secret Rares, are naturally scarcer. However, rarity alone doesn't guarantee a high price tag. A card's rarity sets the stage, but other factors like condition and demand ultimately determine its market value. A rare card that nobody wants won't command the same price as one that everyone is chasing.

Age and Historical Significance

While many of the most valuable cards are from the early days of Pokémon, age isn't a golden ticket. It's a common myth that any card from the 90s is a goldmine. In reality, most vintage cards are worth only a few dollars unless they are in pristine condition or have a special feature. What often matters more is historical significance. Cards from the 1st Edition Base Set, for example, are valuable because they were the very first English cards ever printed. A card marking the first appearance of a beloved Pokémon or featuring iconic art from a specific era carries a piece of history that collectors are willing to pay for.

Limited Editions and Promotional Cards

Some of the most sought-after cards were never even available in regular store-bought packs. Limited edition and promotional cards are released for special events, like tournaments, movie premieres, or brand collaborations. Their value comes from their extreme scarcity. These cards often have a very small print run, sometimes with only a handful of copies known to exist. This is also where we can bust a common myth: not all holographic cards are valuable. A non-holo promotional card given to tournament winners can be worth thousands more than a mass-produced holo from a standard set, a fact that debunks many long-standing Pokémon TCG myths.

Demand and Pop Culture Relevance

A card is ultimately only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. This is where demand and a Pokémon's "cool factor" come into play. Characters like Charizard, Pikachu, and Blastoise are perennial fan favorites, and their cards almost always carry a higher baseline value. If a Pokémon is a fan-favorite, its value tends to remain strong over time. This effect can also be influenced by current events in pop culture. When a specific Pokémon is featured in a new video game, movie, or even a viral social media trend, the demand for its cards can see a sudden and significant increase.

How Condition Affects a Card's Value

When you’re talking about a card’s value, condition is everything. A tiny scratch or a slightly off-center print can be the difference between a card worth a few dollars and one worth thousands. This is why professional grading has become the gold standard in the collecting world. Graded cards remove the guesswork, providing a clear, objective assessment of a card's physical state. Understanding what graders look for is the first step to figuring out what your collection is truly worth.

Understanding the PSA and Beckett Grading Scales

Two names dominate the card grading industry: PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and Beckett. Both companies evaluate cards on a 10-point scale, but they have slightly different approaches. A grade of 1 means the card is in poor condition, while a 10 represents a virtually perfect card. The market is driven by this quest for perfection, with pristine grading being a huge factor in a card's final value. Beckett also offers subgrades for centering, corners, edges, and surface, giving collectors a more detailed look at a card’s flaws. A card with high subgrades can sometimes earn a "Pristine 10" or the elusive "Black Label BGS 10," which is considered even better than a standard 10.

What Does "Gem Mint 10" Actually Mean?

You’ll hear the term "Gem Mint 10" thrown around a lot, and for good reason. A PSA 10 is the highest grade a card can receive from the authenticator, and it signifies a card that is practically perfect. As one expert noted, cards graded as PSA 10 are the most sought after because very few old cards exist in such perfect shape. To achieve this grade, a card must have four sharp corners, clean edges, full original gloss, and be centered almost perfectly. Even a microscopic printing imperfection or a tiny bit of edge wear can knock a card down to a 9, which is why pulling a potential Gem Mint 10 is so exciting.

Common Flaws That Devalue a Card

So, what are graders looking for when they’re inspecting a card? The better the condition, the more it's worth, and even minor issues can significantly lower the grade. The most common flaws include surface scratches, dents, or scuffs that break the card’s gloss. Another major factor is "whitening," which refers to the white marks that appear on a card's edges from being handled. Off-center printing is also a big deal; a card with a lopsided border won't get a high grade. Finally, check the corners. Any sign of softness, bending, or fraying will immediately catch a grader's eye and lower the card's potential value.

Why You Should Check Population Reports

Here’s a pro tip: condition and rarity are a team. A card might be rare, but a card that is rare in a certain condition is even more valuable. This is where population reports come in. Grading services like PSA keep a running tally of every card they've ever graded. You can check these professional grading registries to see exactly how many copies of a card exist in a specific grade. If you find out you have one of only ten Gem Mint 10s of a particular card in the world, you know you’re holding something special. This data is crucial because it provides objective proof of a card's scarcity, which is what ultimately drives the price.

Graded vs. Raw Cards: What's the Price Difference?

If you’ve spent any time in the trading card world, you’ve heard the terms “graded” and “raw.” A raw card is one that’s fresh from a pack or sitting in a binder, while a graded card has been professionally authenticated, evaluated, and sealed in a protective case (or “slab”) by a third-party company. The biggest difference between them? The price. A graded card, especially one in pristine condition, can be worth exponentially more than its raw counterpart. Why the huge jump in value? It all comes down to certainty and preservation.

The trading card market is fueled by a few key factors: rarity, historical importance, and condition. As one market analysis puts it, "The market is driven by scarcity, pristine grading (such as PSA 10), and historical significance." A high grade from a reputable company like PSA or Beckett removes all guesswork. It confirms the card is authentic and provides a definitive, objective score for its condition. This assurance is what collectors are willing to pay a premium for, turning a cool card into a serious asset. For older cards, finding one in Gem Mint condition is incredibly rare, which is why those prices can reach astronomical heights.

A Look at the Grading Process

So, what actually happens when you send a card in for grading? First and foremost, the company authenticates it to ensure it’s not a counterfeit. This step is critical for maintaining trust and value across the entire market. Once verified, graders examine the card under magnification, scrutinizing four key areas: centering, corners, edges, and surface. They look for any imperfections, like print lines, scratches, or whitening on the edges. Based on this detailed inspection, the card receives a final score, which is then printed on a label and sealed with the card in a tamper-proof slab. You can even check a company’s population report to see how many other cards of that exact type have received the same grade, giving you a true sense of its rarity.

When Should You Get a Card Graded?

Deciding whether to grade a card is a strategic move. It costs time and money, so you want to be selective. The best candidates for grading are cards that are not only rare or popular but also in excellent condition. As a general rule, you should "always try to get cards graded PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ for the best value and protection." Before sending anything in, carefully inspect the card yourself. If you can spot obvious flaws like soft corners or surface scratches, it likely won’t receive a top grade. Focus on cards you believe have a real shot at a 9 or 10. As cards from a particular set become rarer over time, their value can increase, making a high-grade version an even more prized possession.

Busting Common Myths About Pokémon Card Values

When you first get into collecting Pokémon cards, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement and, unfortunately, a lot of misinformation. You might hear things on a forum or see a wild price on a marketplace that gives you the wrong idea about what your collection is actually worth. It happens to everyone. Let's clear the air and tackle some of the most common myths about Pokémon card values. Getting these straight will help you collect smarter, whether you’re hunting for vintage treasures or ripping modern packs.

Myth: All Holos Are Valuable

That holographic shine is definitely eye-catching, and it’s true that many valuable cards are holos. But the foil finish itself doesn’t automatically make a card a big-ticket item. Think about it: Pokémon TCG has been printing holo cards for decades, and many modern sets guarantee a holo in every pack. While they often have a higher collector's value than their non-holo counterparts from the same set, that’s not a universal rule. A common, mass-produced holo from a recent set might only be worth a dollar or two. The card’s true value depends more on its rarity, condition, and the Pokémon featured.

Myth: Older Always Means More Expensive

It’s a logical assumption: the older the card, the more it must be worth. While age is a factor, it’s not a guarantee of high value. The reality is that most cards from the original Base Set, even those from the 90s, are not worth much unless they are in pristine condition or are a rare variant. A 1st Edition stamp, a shadowless print, or a top grade from PSA or Beckett is what turns an old card into a valuable collectible. That Base Set Rattata that’s been sitting in a shoebox for 20 years is a cool piece of nostalgia, but it probably won’t fund your retirement.

Myth: Listing Price Equals Market Value

This is one of the most important myths to understand, especially when you’re browsing online marketplaces. Anyone can list a card for any price they want. Seeing a card listed for $10,000 doesn’t mean it’s worth $10,000. The true market value is determined by what people are actually paying for it. To get an accurate sense of a card’s worth, you need to research actual sales data on sites like eBay or use price guide websites that track and average out final sale prices. This is the only way to know you're paying a fair price or asking for one.

Myth: Rarity Is the Only Thing That Matters

Rarity is a huge piece of the value puzzle. A card with a low pull rate, meaning it’s hard to find in a pack, certainly has higher potential value. But rarity isn’t the only thing that drives demand. A card also needs to be popular. For example, a super-rare card featuring a lesser-known Pokémon might not fetch as high a price as a more common card featuring a fan-favorite like Charizard or Pikachu. As one expert notes, "rarity alone doesn't guarantee demand." Condition and the character's popularity are just as critical in what makes a Pokémon card valuable.

Are Pokémon Cards a Good Investment?

"Are Pokémon cards a good investment?" It’s a question that comes up a lot, and for good reason. What started as a playground hobby has transformed into a legitimate alternative asset class, with some cards selling for prices that rival fine art or luxury cars. You’ve seen the headlines about record-breaking sales and heard stories of people finding treasure in their old binders. It’s exciting, and it’s natural to wonder if you can get in on the action.

The short answer is yes, Pokémon cards can be a good investment. The potential for significant returns is very real, but it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme. The market is complex and can be volatile, with prices that change quickly. Thinking of cards as an investment requires a different mindset than collecting for fun. It means doing your homework, understanding what creates value, and learning how to spot a good opportunity. It’s less about catching them all and more about catching the right ones. Before you dive in, it's important to understand the different segments of the market, from the time-tested vintage cards to the flashy new releases. Each carries its own set of opportunities and risks. Let's break down what that looks like so you can make informed decisions for your collection.

The Enduring Value of Vintage Cards

Vintage cards are the blue-chip stocks of the Pokémon world. We’re talking about the original releases from the late 90s, especially the promotional issues and ultra-rare 1st Edition pieces that have become legendary among collectors. Their value is driven by a powerful combination of scarcity, nostalgia, and historical significance. Many of these cards were printed in limited numbers, and finding one in pristine, PSA 10 graded condition is exceptionally rare. These low-population cards are seen as historical artifacts from the dawn of the Pokémon craze, and their prices reflect that. They have consistently held their value and continue to be the most sought-after cards on the market.

The Rise of Modern and Limited-Edition Cards

While vintage cards hold the top spots for value, don't sleep on modern cards. Newer sets feature stunning Special Illustration Rares with unique artwork that have collectors buzzing. These are often called "chase cards" because of the thrill of pulling them from a pack. While they may not hit the million-dollar marks of their vintage counterparts, the most desirable modern cards can still fetch over a thousand dollars on the secondary market. Keep in mind that this part of the market is much more volatile. The high demand is often driven by current hype, making these cards a higher-risk, higher-reward play compared to the steady value of vintage classics.

How to Approach Today's Market Volatility

The Pokémon card market can change in a flash, so it’s crucial to be smart about how you buy and sell. The most important step is to use trusted, authenticated marketplaces to avoid counterfeit cards, which are unfortunately common. For any high-value card, you should also check its population report. These professional grading registries tell you exactly how many copies of a card exist in a specific graded condition. A low population number means the card is truly rare, which is a key factor in its long-term value. Doing this research helps you understand what you're buying and protects you from overpaying for a card that isn't as scarce as it seems.

Key Trends in the Pokémon Card Market

The Pokémon card market is always changing, but a few key forces are shaping what makes a card desirable and valuable. Understanding these trends is essential whether you're just starting your collection or you're looking for that next big-ticket item. From nostalgic adults re-entering the hobby to the power of a viral video, here’s what’s driving the market right now.

The Impact of Adult Collectors

What was once a playground hobby has become a serious business. Many of the kids who first traded Pokémon cards in the ‘90s are now adults with disposable income, and they’re ready to invest in the rare cards they could only dream of owning. This wave of returning collectors has significantly driven up prices for vintage and high-grade cards. The nostalgia is powerful, but so is the spending power, turning childhood collectibles into valuable assets. This shift means the market isn't just for kids anymore; it's a competitive space where serious collectors are willing to pay top dollar for a piece of their history.

How Social Media Drives Prices

A single YouTube video or Instagram post can send the price of a Pokémon card soaring. When influencers and celebrities like Logan Paul showcase their collections or open packs live, they create a massive surge in demand. Paul’s high-profile purchase of the "Pikachu Illustrator" card, for example, brought global attention to the hobby and cemented the card's legendary status. This phenomenon, often called the "Logan Paul effect," shows how social media hype can make a card famous overnight. A card's popularity on social media can be just as important as its rarity, creating a new layer of market dynamics for collectors to watch.

The Growing Demand for Graded Cards

In today's market, condition is everything. Collectors are increasingly seeking cards that have been professionally graded by companies like PSA or Beckett. A high grade, especially a perfect "Gem Mint 10," acts as a guarantee of authenticity and condition, making the card far more valuable. While rarity is the foundation of a card's worth, a high grade is what truly maximizes its price. For instance, two first-edition Charizards can have wildly different values based on their grade. This is why you'll see the most expensive Pokémon cards are almost always in pristine, graded condition, confirming their status as investment-quality collectibles.

Where to Safely Buy and Sell Expensive Pokémon Cards

When you're dealing with cards worth thousands of dollars, where you buy and sell is just as important as the card itself. The last thing you want is to get scammed with a counterfeit or sell a prized possession for less than it's worth. Sticking to trusted platforms is the best way to protect your investment and ensure every transaction is secure. Let's walk through some of the most reliable places to trade high-value Pokémon cards, so you can transact with confidence.

Packz

If you're looking for a modern and exciting way to acquire high-value cards, Packz offers a unique approach. The platform focuses on providing a trusted space where you can confidently get your hands on genuine, graded cards. As experts suggest for anyone looking to collect valuable cards, sticking to reputable platforms is key to avoiding fakes. With Packz, you open digital mystery packs to reveal graded Pokémon cards. From there, you can have the physical cards shipped directly to you or sell them back instantly. It’s a secure and streamlined way to build your collection without the risks of an open marketplace.

Heritage Auctions and Goldin

For those dealing in the upper echelon of collectibles, Heritage Auctions and Goldin are the gold standard. These are two of the most respected auction houses in the world, providing a secure environment for multi-thousand-dollar transactions. When you buy or sell through them, you’re working with platforms that have a rock-solid reputation for authenticity and integrity. Using a major auction house is one of the surest ways to reduce the risk of accidentally purchasing a counterfeit card, giving you peace of mind as you invest in rare Pokémon cards.

PWCC Marketplace

Similar to the big auction houses, PWCC Marketplace is another highly trusted platform for serious collectors. It’s known for its strict authentication processes, which are designed to ensure every card that passes through is genuine. This is especially important when you’re investing significant money into a single card and can’t afford any uncertainty. For collectors who want to buy high-value cards without the fear of fraud, PWCC provides a secure and reliable option. It’s a go-to for many who want to transact with confidence.

eBay and Private Sales

While platforms like eBay offer a massive selection, they also come with greater risk. It’s a space where you need to be extra careful. As many experienced collectors will tell you, it's important to "REMEMBER people can post cards for ANY PRICE THEY WANT. That does not mean the card is valued at that price." This is a crucial piece of advice for valuing cards. Before buying from a private seller on eBay or another forum, do your homework. Check the seller’s reputation, look for clear photos, and compare the price against recent sales on other platforms.

Tips for Collecting High-Value Cards

Collecting high-value Pokémon cards is more than just a hobby; it's about curating a portfolio of tangible assets you're passionate about. But as the stakes get higher, so do the risks. To protect your investment and build a collection you can be proud of, you need a solid strategy. It’s not just about having a good eye for cool artwork; it’s about knowing the market, verifying what you buy, and protecting your cards for the long haul. These tips will help you approach high-value collecting with the confidence of a pro.

Spot Fakes and Reprints

The unfortunate reality of a hot market is the rise of fakes. A counterfeit card isn't just worthless; it's a costly mistake. The single best way to protect yourself is to buy from trusted sources that guarantee authenticity. While you can find gems in many places, high-stakes purchases should be made through platforms with a strong reputation. Marketplaces like Heritage Auctions and Goldin have built-in authentication processes. At Packz, we take this a step further by only dealing with professionally graded cards in our mystery packs, so you can focus on the thrill of the reveal without worrying about authenticity. When a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is. Stick to the pros.

Verify a Card's Authenticity

Even when dealing with what seems to be a legitimate card, a little homework goes a long way. For graded cards, you can and should verify the certification number on the grading company's website. This confirms that the slab is legitimate and hasn't been tampered with. Beyond that, you can use professional grading registries to understand a card's true rarity. The PSA Population Report, for example, tells you exactly how many copies of a card exist in each grade. This data is what separates serious collectors from amateurs. Knowing there are only 50 PSA 10s of a certain card in the world is powerful information that directly influences its value.

Store and Insure Your High-Value Cards

Once you have a valuable card, your top priority is keeping it that way. The best first step is getting it professionally graded. Aiming for top grades like a PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ not only confirms the card's condition but also encases it in a durable, protective slab. This "slab" shields the card from dust, moisture, and accidental damage. For storage, keep your graded cards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For truly significant collections, consider getting a rider on your homeowner's insurance or a separate policy specifically for collectibles. It might sound like a lot, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Build a Collection with Long-Term Value

A strong collection often has a mix of iconic vintage cards and promising modern ones. Don't feel like you have to choose between a 1st Edition from 1999 and a special alternate art card from a recent set. Diversity can be a strength. Focus on cards with inherent rarity, like the early "First Edition shadowless holos" or the elusive "Gold Star" cards from the EX Series era. These cards had very small print runs, making them incredibly difficult to find and highly sought after. By balancing your collection with a few of these historic heavy hitters and some exciting modern chase cards, you create a portfolio that's both personally rewarding and financially sound.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is my old Pokémon card collection from the 90s worth a lot of money? It's the million-dollar question, and the honest answer is probably not, but it's possible. While most cards from that era are common and not worth much, you could have a hidden gem. The real value is in specific cards, like a 1st Edition Charizard, that are also in nearly perfect condition. Look for a small "1st Edition" stamp on the card and check for any scratches, whitening on the edges, or bent corners. A card needs to be both rare and pristine to command a high price.

Should I get my cards graded, and is it worth the cost? Grading is a strategic move, not something you should do for every card. It costs time and money, so you want to be selective. The best candidates for grading are cards that are already rare, popular, and in excellent condition. Before sending a card in, inspect it carefully. If you think it has a real chance of getting a 9 or a 10, then grading can be a fantastic way to protect the card and confirm its value for a potential sale.

How can I figure out what a card is actually worth? The most important thing to remember is that a high listing price on a marketplace doesn't mean a card is worth that much. To find a card's true market value, you need to look at what people have actually paid for it. You can do this by searching for the card on eBay and filtering the results to show only "Sold Items." This will give you a realistic range based on recent sales, which is a much more accurate picture than an optimistic asking price.

Is it better to invest in vintage cards or modern cards? This depends on your strategy and risk tolerance. Vintage cards, especially rare ones from the first few sets, are like blue-chip stocks; they have a long history of holding their value and are driven by nostalgia and proven scarcity. Modern cards are more like tech stocks; they can be volatile, with prices driven by current hype. A special illustration rare from a new set might be worth a lot now, but its long-term value is less certain. A mix of both can create a well-rounded collection.

Besides Charizard, what other Pokémon should I look out for? While Charizard is the undisputed king, several other Pokémon have cards that are highly sought after. Pikachu is an obvious one, with promotional cards like the Pikachu Illustrator being the most valuable in the world. The 1st Edition Lugia from Neo Genesis is another heavy hitter, famous for being difficult to find in good condition. Fan favorites from the original 151, like Blastoise and Venusaur, also have valuable 1st Edition cards that are cornerstones for any serious collector.

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