Collecting Pokemon cards has been a popular hobby since the late 90s. However, in recent years, the market for Pokemon graded cards has exploded, with some of the rarest cards fetching astronomical prices at auction. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 most expensive and rarest Pokemon cards ever sold.
1. Pikachu Illustrator Card
The Pikachu Illustrator Card is the most expensive Pokemon card ever sold. This card was given out as a prize in a Japanese Pokemon art contest in 1998. Only 39 of these cards were ever made, making it one of the rarest Pokemon cards in existence. In 2020, one of these cards sold at auction for a staggering $233,000.
2. Shadowless First Edition Charizard
The Shadowless First Edition Charizard is one of the most sought-after Pokemon graded cards. This card is known for its iconic artwork and the absence of a shadow behind the Pokemon, hence the name “Shadowless”. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $220,574.
3. Tropical Mega Battle Trainer Card
The Tropical Mega Battle Trainer Card is another extremely rare Pokemon card. This card was given out to participants of the Tropical Mega Battle tournament, which took place in Hawaii from 1999 to 2001. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $65,100.
4. First Edition Shining Charizard
The First Edition Shining Charizard is a unique card that features a holographic Charizard. This card is part of the Neo Destiny set, which was released in 2002. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $10,100.
5. Gold Star Espeon
The Gold Star Espeon is a highly sought-after card due to its beautiful artwork and rarity. This card is part of the POP Series 5 set, which was released in 2007. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $22,100.
6. First Edition Shadowless Blastoise
The First Edition Shadowless Blastoise is another iconic card in the Pokemon trading card game. This card is known for its powerful artwork and the absence of a shadow behind the Pokemon. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $38,700.
7. First Edition Shadowless Venusaur
The First Edition Shadowless Venusaur is a highly sought-after card due to its rarity and iconic artwork. This card is part of the Base Set, which was released in 1999. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $50,100.
8. First Edition Shadowless Pikachu
The First Edition Shadowless Pikachu is a unique card that features the beloved Pokemon, Pikachu. This card is part of the Base Set, which was released in 1999. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $55,650.
9. First Edition Shadowless Mewtwo
The First Edition Shadowless Mewtwo is a highly sought-after card due to its powerful artwork and rarity. This card is part of the Base Set, which was released in 1999. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $150,100.
10. First Edition Shadowless Gyarados
The First Edition Shadowless Gyarados is a unique card that features the powerful Pokemon, Gyarados. This card is part of the Base Set, which was released in 1999. In 2020, a PSA 10 graded version of this card sold for $31,200.
In conclusion, the market for Pokemon cards, especially graded Pokemon cards, is thriving. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, it’s clear that these cards are more than just pieces of cardboard – they’re valuable collectibles that can fetch a pretty penny at auction.