Pokémon
Except otherwise stated, all results include the premium.
Chronology : 1998
Chronology : 1998
1996 Japanese Charizard
2026 SOLD for $ 1.23M by Goldin
Here is a detailed historical overview of early Pokémon trading cards in Japan, focusing on their origins tied to the 1996 video game release, key early print runs, and notable high-value sales of rare Charizard cards. It also ties into modern market trends.
Early Pokémon TCG History in Japan (Accurate Details)
Notable Sales
Early Pokémon TCG History in Japan (Accurate Details)
- The Pokémon video game ("Pocket Monsters") launched in Japan in 1996 (developed by Game Freak, published by Nintendo).
- The official TCG began with Media Factory releasing the first cards in November 1996 (Base Set equivalents).
- Topsun produced promotional cards in March 1997, bundled with apple-flavored chewing gum (2 gum pieces + 2 cards for 60 yen). These were non-playable, featured blue backs, no numbering, and highlighted monsters like Charizard (Lizardon) and Blastoise. Copyrights reference 1995 (from the game's trademark, shared by Nintendo, Creatures Inc., and Game Freak).
- Official playable cards added numbering in May 1997, with holofoil (prismatic) effects appearing in June 1997.
- Early holofoil Charizard (#6) from the 1996 Base Set (Japanese) had variants: Some lacked a rarity symbol (very early print), used "Pocket Monster Card Game" back, 1996 copyright, and initial errors (e.g., height "1.5km" and weight "70.5kg" instead of corrected "1.7m" and "90.5kg"). Name evolution included temporary "Kairiki" before "Kaen" (Japanese for Charizard).
Notable Sales
- Topsun Charizard (blue back, PSA Gem Mint 10): Sold for $490,000 at Goldin Auctions on January 30, 2021 (lot 195). This matches records as one of the priciest non-TCG promo Charizards.
- 1996 Japanese #6 Charizard (early holofoil, no rarity symbol, printing errors, PSA Gem MT 10): Sold for 640K at Goldin on September 13, 2025 (Summer Goldin 100 Auction, lot 9). This was a historic sale for one of only ~10 PSA 10 examples (out of over 930 graded), from the earliest Japanese Base Set prints before rarity symbols were standardized.
- On March 6, 2026, Goldin sold for $ 1.26M a Japanese Charizard, lot 13. The lot is titled 1996 Pokemon Japanese Base Set Holo #6 Charizard, No Rarity Symbol - Case Signed by Mitsuhiro Arita (creator of the iconic holo art) - PSA GEM MT 10 - Beckett LOA. Printing errors : Height "1.5km"/weight "70.5kg" errors, type "Kairiki" (error, vs. corrected "Kaen"); ~10 PSA 10s out of 930+ graded; old back ("Pocket Monster Card Game")
Comparison of Original Releases:
Comparison: All PSA/Gem MT 10s, but the two Base Set examples are far rarer (~10 pop each vs. Topsun's 1/1 but higher overall supply) and historically superior as first TCG prints. The 2021 Topsun sale set a non-TCG benchmark; 2025 Base Set shattered it at $641K (historic high); the 2026 lot matches but elevates with Arita's signature—potentially topping records, as signed variants (e.g., $324K prior) command 20-50%+ premiums. Base Set cards embody "holy grail" status for errors/no-symbol/old-back scarcity.
Significance of Mitsuhiro Arita Case Signature: Arita illustrated this legendary Charizard art, making his autograph a direct creator link—transforming an ultra-rare card into a one-of-a-kind artifact. Beckett LOA ensures authenticity; signatures boost value immensely (e.g., past signed no-symbol PSA 10s at $324K), appealing to historians/investors. Amid soaring demand for early Japanese prints, this could redefine highs for the variant.
Japanese Names: リザードン (Rizadon/Lizardon, Charizard). Base Set evolves from リザード (Lizardo, Charmeleon).
- Topsun Charizard (blue back): Copyright 1995, but licensed/produced ~1997 (post-TCG launch); non-TCG promo cards in gum packs.
- Japanese Base Set #6 Charizard holofoil (early print): October 20, 1996 (official TCG launch by Media Factory); very first TCG holo Charizard, with no rarity symbol/errors as first-run traits before quick corrections/standardization. (Preceded only by non-TCG Bandai Carddass ~Sept 1996.)
Comparison: All PSA/Gem MT 10s, but the two Base Set examples are far rarer (~10 pop each vs. Topsun's 1/1 but higher overall supply) and historically superior as first TCG prints. The 2021 Topsun sale set a non-TCG benchmark; 2025 Base Set shattered it at $641K (historic high); the 2026 lot matches but elevates with Arita's signature—potentially topping records, as signed variants (e.g., $324K prior) command 20-50%+ premiums. Base Set cards embody "holy grail" status for errors/no-symbol/old-back scarcity.
Significance of Mitsuhiro Arita Case Signature: Arita illustrated this legendary Charizard art, making his autograph a direct creator link—transforming an ultra-rare card into a one-of-a-kind artifact. Beckett LOA ensures authenticity; signatures boost value immensely (e.g., past signed no-symbol PSA 10s at $324K), appealing to historians/investors. Amid soaring demand for early Japanese prints, this could redefine highs for the variant.
Japanese Names: リザードン (Rizadon/Lizardon, Charizard). Base Set evolves from リザード (Lizardo, Charmeleon).
2025 SOLD for $ 640K by Goldin
The 1996 Japanese Base Set Charizard #6 (often called the "No Rarity Symbol" or "early print" variant) is one of the most historically significant and valuable cards in the entire Pokémon TCG. It originates from the very first main expansion set released in Japan on October 20, 1996, by Media Factory (under Nintendo/Creatures Inc.).
History and Key Features of This Variant
The Japanese Base Set (officially "Expansion Pack") was the debut of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. In the earliest production run (likely the first few weeks or initial print sheets), certain cards—including Charizard—were printed without the rarity symbol (the star, circle, or diamond that normally appears in the bottom-right corner to indicate rarity level).
Rarity and Grading
The Specific Lot: Goldin Summer Goldin 100 Auction (September 13, 2025)
This particular example was sold as part of Goldin's prestigious Goldin 100 auction (a high-end event featuring elite modern and vintage collectibles). It was described as:
Why this sale was exceptional:
This card exemplifies the deep lore of Pokémon TCG printing history: subtle production changes in the very first weeks of the game's existence created some of today's most coveted artifacts. It bridges the Japanese origin story directly to the global explosion that followed with Wizards of the Coast's English Base Set in 1999. In the collector community, it is often called one of the "holy grails" for its combination of beauty, historical primacy, and extreme condition rarity.
History and Key Features of This Variant
The Japanese Base Set (officially "Expansion Pack") was the debut of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. In the earliest production run (likely the first few weeks or initial print sheets), certain cards—including Charizard—were printed without the rarity symbol (the star, circle, or diamond that normally appears in the bottom-right corner to indicate rarity level).
- No rarity symbol: This is the defining trait. Later print runs quickly added the rarity symbol (a star for rares like Charizard). Collectors view these "No Rarity" cards as the true first-edition equivalents of the Japanese Base Set—essentially the "1st Edition of the 1st Edition." They represent the absolute earliest mass-produced Pokémon TCG cards.
- Early printing errors specific to this run: This Charizard features incorrect Pokédex data in the flavor text box:
- Height listed as 1.5 km (should be 1.7 m).
- Weight listed as 70.5 kg (should be 90.5 kg).
Rarity and Grading
- PSA has graded roughly 1,200+ examples of the No Rarity Charizard across all grades (combined with CGC/BGS totals around that or slightly higher in some reports).
- PSA Gem Mint 10 population: Extremely low—only about 10 copies have achieved this perfect grade (fewer than 1% of submitted examples). Centering, surface quality, and corners are notoriously difficult on these early Japanese prints due to production standards at the time.
- The card's holofoil can show "swirl" patterns or other minor factory characteristics common to very early Japanese holos.
The Specific Lot: Goldin Summer Goldin 100 Auction (September 13, 2025)
This particular example was sold as part of Goldin's prestigious Goldin 100 auction (a high-end event featuring elite modern and vintage collectibles). It was described as:
- 1996 Pokémon Japanese Basic No Rarity Symbol Rare Holofoil #6 Charizard
- Graded PSA Gem Mint 10
- Exhibiting the classic early-print errors (1.5 km height / 70.5 kg weight)
Why this sale was exceptional:
- Only ~10 PSA 10s exist, and pristine examples rarely reach the market.
- It combined the no-rarity trait, the specific early errors, perfect grading, and strong provenance through a major auction house.
- The Pokémon vintage market was already heating up, with high-grade WotC-era and Japanese cards (like the Skyridge master set) achieving record prices around the same period.
This card exemplifies the deep lore of Pokémon TCG printing history: subtle production changes in the very first weeks of the game's existence created some of today's most coveted artifacts. It bridges the Japanese origin story directly to the global explosion that followed with Wizards of the Coast's English Base Set in 1999. In the collector community, it is often called one of the "holy grails" for its combination of beauty, historical primacy, and extreme condition rarity.
1997 Japanese Gold Trophy Pikachu 1st Tournament
2026 SOLD for $ 980K by Goldin
The 1997 Japanese Promo Gold Trophy Pikachu (often referred to as the No. 1 Trainer / Gold 1st-1st or 1st-2nd Tournament variant) is one of the earliest, scarcest, and most sought-after competition-awarded Pokémon cards of all time, These cards have extremely low populations due to limited distribution (historically around 4 copies per specific variant/event in some cases, though reissues/variations exist across 1997-1998 periods).
The PSA NM-MT 8 (83322233) was sold for $ 980K by Goldin on March 7, 2026, lot 14. This Gold 1st Place Trophy Pikachu was awarded to first-place winners at the first official Pokémon TCG tournament ever contested, held at Makuhari Messe Event Hall in Chiba, Japan, in June 1997—just seven months after the release of the inaugural Japanese-language Base Set expansion.
Much of the thrust behind the organized collecting hobby—especially when it comes to Pokémon and its "Gotta Catch 'em All!" slogan—is the accumulation of commemoratives that very few others can possibly possess. As Pokémon cards began to be printed in hundreds of millions of copies, this type of scarcity became increasingly difficult to find from sealed booster packs. Today, advanced collectors have focused their efforts on the TCG's tournament-prized cards—items with ultra-limited distribution quantities and the inherent prestige of having been hard-won in tournament play.
According to tournament documentation, four copies of the Gold #1 Trophy Pikachu were awarded to first-place winners across divisions at this inaugural event (with silver #2 and bronze #3 variants for runners-up).
The card displays the enduring Pokémon mascot Pikachu holding a gold trophy cup atop a first-place podium. This entry—with its illustration courtesy of famed Pokémon illustrator Mitsuhiro Arita (the same artist who crafted the iconic Charizard and Pikachu entries from the Base Set)—is particularly beloved for its depiction of a charming, especially rotund Pikachu lifting the trophy.
The offered example displays highly favorable aesthetic attributes: the card's peripheral and surface elements appear fresh and sharp, reflecting a bare minimum of handling in the nearly 30 years since it was initially awarded.
PSA Population Breakdown (for the Gold Trophy Pikachu variants)
From PSA's official population reports (as of recent data in 2026):
Auction Results in Higher Grades
Public sales for these in PSA 8+ are infrequent and often set records due to scarcity:
The PSA NM-MT 8 (83322233) was sold for $ 980K by Goldin on March 7, 2026, lot 14. This Gold 1st Place Trophy Pikachu was awarded to first-place winners at the first official Pokémon TCG tournament ever contested, held at Makuhari Messe Event Hall in Chiba, Japan, in June 1997—just seven months after the release of the inaugural Japanese-language Base Set expansion.
Much of the thrust behind the organized collecting hobby—especially when it comes to Pokémon and its "Gotta Catch 'em All!" slogan—is the accumulation of commemoratives that very few others can possibly possess. As Pokémon cards began to be printed in hundreds of millions of copies, this type of scarcity became increasingly difficult to find from sealed booster packs. Today, advanced collectors have focused their efforts on the TCG's tournament-prized cards—items with ultra-limited distribution quantities and the inherent prestige of having been hard-won in tournament play.
According to tournament documentation, four copies of the Gold #1 Trophy Pikachu were awarded to first-place winners across divisions at this inaugural event (with silver #2 and bronze #3 variants for runners-up).
The card displays the enduring Pokémon mascot Pikachu holding a gold trophy cup atop a first-place podium. This entry—with its illustration courtesy of famed Pokémon illustrator Mitsuhiro Arita (the same artist who crafted the iconic Charizard and Pikachu entries from the Base Set)—is particularly beloved for its depiction of a charming, especially rotund Pikachu lifting the trophy.
The offered example displays highly favorable aesthetic attributes: the card's peripheral and surface elements appear fresh and sharp, reflecting a bare minimum of handling in the nearly 30 years since it was initially awarded.
PSA Population Breakdown (for the Gold Trophy Pikachu variants)
From PSA's official population reports (as of recent data in 2026):
- Total graded examples across Gold Trophy Pikachu (1st-2nd Tournament variant): 12 (with 2 qualifiers noted in some breakdowns).
- Higher grades are exceptionally scarce:
- PSA 10 (GEM MT): Population of 0 or 1 in some variant-specific reports (e.g., 1st-1st Tournament shows Pop 1 with no Pop Higher; overall Gold variants show 0 in several listings).
- PSA 9 (MINT): Typically 3 (with Pop Higher often 1 or 0 in variant reports; some sources note PSA 9 Pop: 3 for key early examples).
- PSA 8 (NM-MT): Around 3 in specific tournament variants (e.g., Pop 3 with Pop Higher 4 in one breakdown; the NM-MT 8 example referenced in the original post is one of these ultra-rare high-grade survivors).
- Lower grades fill out the rest (e.g., a handful in 7, 6, etc.), but anything PSA 8+ represents the elite tier with single-digit populations globally.
- Note: There are slight variations in reporting between the exact 1997 1st Tournament vs. 1997-98 1st-2nd reissues, but the overall Gold Trophy Pikachu remains in the low teens total graded, with higher grades (8+) totaling under 10 combined in most census views. Bronze and Silver variants have slightly higher pops (e.g., Bronze ~16 total), but Gold is the most prestigious and scarce.
Auction Results in Higher Grades
Public sales for these in PSA 8+ are infrequent and often set records due to scarcity:
- PSA NM-MT 8: The example highlighted (from Goldin Auctions) sold for $982,100—a record for that grade at the time. Other PSA 8s have appeared in sets or pairs (e.g., Gold + Silver PSA 8 pairs from the first tournament referenced in Goldin listings), but individual high-grade 8s command mid-to-high six figures to low seven figures.
- PSA 9 (MINT): Extremely limited sales data publicly, but examples have been valued/estimated north of $500,000–$1M+ in private/auction contexts, with some older reports citing potential for higher in mint condition.
- PSA 10 (GEM MT): Virtually no public auction results (due to Pop 0–1), but hypothetical value would be well into seven figures (potentially $1M–multi-million range) given comparables like other ultra-rare Pikachu trophies and the market's surge.
- Broader context: Related 1997-98 Trophy Pikachu sales (including signed/sketched variants or sets) have hit $200K–$600K+ range in recent Goldin/Heritage auctions, but pure high-grade Gold 1st-place examples outperform. The Pokémon market's growth (especially post-2020) has driven these up significantly, with trophy cards often outperforming even iconic Charizards in rarity-driven sales.
1998 Pikachu Illustrator
GEM-MT10
2026 SOLD for $ 16.5M by Goldin
The applications of Pokémon are unlimited, including the constitution of complete sets, fights, contests. Of course, the production run of some cards is much lower. Such variation in the scarcity had already been managed from 1993 in sports cards, with Topps serialized Refractors.
The Pokémon cards will be edited in regular series and in exceptional cards which are reserved for the winners of a game, for example a "super secret battle".
39 “Pikachu Illustrator” holo cards were awarded in a series of three illustrator contests through the monthly Coro-Coro Comics in 1998. It is the only Pokémon card to display the "ILLUSTRATOR" heading. It features Pikachu surrounded by illustration art. The artwork is by Atsuko Nishida, who had designed several of the most effective Pokémon characters including Pikachu. Winners received also their winning artwork on a promo card.
As of 2022, 8 copies have been certified Mint 9 by PSA. Only one is graded higher by them. The professional wrestler and boxer and social media celebrity Logan Paul acquired that unique Gem Mint 10 example for $ 5.275M in a private deal in 2021 and wore it around his neck when he entered the ring at WrestleMania in April 2022. Teaming with The Miz, Paul won the fight.
From the Logan Paul collection, it was sold for $ 16.5M by Goldin on February 15, 2026, lot 1. The lot uniquely includes a custom diamond necklace Paul wore at WrestleMania 38 and a personal hand-delivery by him to the winner, enhancing its appeal in Goldin Co.'s ongoing Pokémon & TCG auction ending February 15, 2026. Featured on Netflix's "King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch," this sale underscores the TCG market's surge, with Pokémon cards alone generating over $10 billion in secondary sales since 2020 per industry reports.
The Pikachu Illustrator card, often regarded as the "holy grail" of Pokémon TCG collecting, represents a pivotal piece of early Pokémon history tied to the franchise's grassroots artistic origins in Japan.
Origins and Creation
The card emerged from a series of illustration contests organized by the Japanese manga magazine CoroCoro Comic, starting in November 1997 during the nascent days of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). These contests invited young fans to submit original Pokémon artwork, with prompts varying by event. The first was the "Pokémon Card Game Illust Artist Contest," advertised in the November 1997 issue with winners announced in January 1998. Subsequent contests included the "Mewtwo Strikes Back" (or "Mewtwo's Counterattack Commemoration") in May 1998 (winners in July) and "Pikachu's Summer Vacation" in June 1998 (winners in August), tying into the first Pokémon movie and its accompanying short film. At the time, The Pokémon Company (then known as Pokémon Center Co., Ltd., a joint venture between Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak) was in its early formation in April 1998, and these promotions helped fuel Pokémon's explosive popularity before its global expansion.
The card's artwork was illustrated by Atsuko Nishida, the original designer of Pikachu and several other Generation I Pokémon like Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. It depicts a holographic Pikachu holding a fountain pen and paintbrushes, emphasizing the creative theme.
Design and Features
Unlike standard Trainer cards from the 1996 Base Set, the Pikachu Illustrator is the only card ever printed with the "Illustrator" type designation instead of "Trainer." It includes a distinctive pen symbol in the bottom-right corner (mirroring the one in Pikachu's hand), a "double star" rarity indicator shared with a few other early Japanese promos, and Japanese text in the description box that congratulates the recipient on their excellent illustration and certifies them as an official Pokémon Card Illustrator. The card has no gameplay effects, serving purely as a commemorative prize.
The Pokémon cards will be edited in regular series and in exceptional cards which are reserved for the winners of a game, for example a "super secret battle".
39 “Pikachu Illustrator” holo cards were awarded in a series of three illustrator contests through the monthly Coro-Coro Comics in 1998. It is the only Pokémon card to display the "ILLUSTRATOR" heading. It features Pikachu surrounded by illustration art. The artwork is by Atsuko Nishida, who had designed several of the most effective Pokémon characters including Pikachu. Winners received also their winning artwork on a promo card.
As of 2022, 8 copies have been certified Mint 9 by PSA. Only one is graded higher by them. The professional wrestler and boxer and social media celebrity Logan Paul acquired that unique Gem Mint 10 example for $ 5.275M in a private deal in 2021 and wore it around his neck when he entered the ring at WrestleMania in April 2022. Teaming with The Miz, Paul won the fight.
From the Logan Paul collection, it was sold for $ 16.5M by Goldin on February 15, 2026, lot 1. The lot uniquely includes a custom diamond necklace Paul wore at WrestleMania 38 and a personal hand-delivery by him to the winner, enhancing its appeal in Goldin Co.'s ongoing Pokémon & TCG auction ending February 15, 2026. Featured on Netflix's "King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch," this sale underscores the TCG market's surge, with Pokémon cards alone generating over $10 billion in secondary sales since 2020 per industry reports.
The Pikachu Illustrator card, often regarded as the "holy grail" of Pokémon TCG collecting, represents a pivotal piece of early Pokémon history tied to the franchise's grassroots artistic origins in Japan.
Origins and Creation
The card emerged from a series of illustration contests organized by the Japanese manga magazine CoroCoro Comic, starting in November 1997 during the nascent days of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). These contests invited young fans to submit original Pokémon artwork, with prompts varying by event. The first was the "Pokémon Card Game Illust Artist Contest," advertised in the November 1997 issue with winners announced in January 1998. Subsequent contests included the "Mewtwo Strikes Back" (or "Mewtwo's Counterattack Commemoration") in May 1998 (winners in July) and "Pikachu's Summer Vacation" in June 1998 (winners in August), tying into the first Pokémon movie and its accompanying short film. At the time, The Pokémon Company (then known as Pokémon Center Co., Ltd., a joint venture between Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak) was in its early formation in April 1998, and these promotions helped fuel Pokémon's explosive popularity before its global expansion.
The card's artwork was illustrated by Atsuko Nishida, the original designer of Pikachu and several other Generation I Pokémon like Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. It depicts a holographic Pikachu holding a fountain pen and paintbrushes, emphasizing the creative theme.
Design and Features
Unlike standard Trainer cards from the 1996 Base Set, the Pikachu Illustrator is the only card ever printed with the "Illustrator" type designation instead of "Trainer." It includes a distinctive pen symbol in the bottom-right corner (mirroring the one in Pikachu's hand), a "double star" rarity indicator shared with a few other early Japanese promos, and Japanese text in the description box that congratulates the recipient on their excellent illustration and certifies them as an official Pokémon Card Illustrator. The card has no gameplay effects, serving purely as a commemorative prize.
MT9
2022 SOLD for $ 840K by Heritage
Distribution and Rarity
Winners received the card as a prize, with distribution as follows:
Pokémon Illust Artist Contest, January 1998, 23 cards awarded (3 Grand Prize/Best Award winners received multiple; 20 Excellence Award runners-up received 1 each)
Mewtwo Strikes Back, July 1998, 8 cards
Pikachu's Summer Vacation, August 1998, 8 cards
This totals 39 cards from the contests. In 2017, two additional copies surfaced and were sold on Yahoo! Japan Auctions by seller "pkonno2002," believed to be Yuichi Konno, an early developer of the TCG's ruleset, bringing the estimated total to 41 legitimate copies worldwide. The card was never released in booster packs or public events, remaining exclusive to Japan.
As of 2023, Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) had graded around 24–28 copies, with breakdowns including:
A Pikachu Illustrator graded Mint 9 by PSA was sold for $ 840K by Heritage on June 11, 2022, lot 36167. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Three copies of the Pikachu Illustrator have been graded Gem Mint 10 by CGC. One of them was sold for $ 495K by Heritage on September 23, 2023, lot 36085.
A Pikachu Illustrator graded Mint 9 by CGC was sold for $ 360K by Sotheby's on September 24, 2024, lot 27. This copy is the only Pikachu Illustrator with the signature of Akabane, one of the three starters of the Pokémon franchise. That autograph has been authenticated by CGC.
Another Pikachu Illustrator graded Mint 9 by PSA was sold for $ 625K by Heritage on August 8, 2025, lot 36073. As of 2025 the PSA population in that grade has been raised to 15 with no change to the higher grade.
Winners received the card as a prize, with distribution as follows:
Pokémon Illust Artist Contest, January 1998, 23 cards awarded (3 Grand Prize/Best Award winners received multiple; 20 Excellence Award runners-up received 1 each)
Mewtwo Strikes Back, July 1998, 8 cards
Pikachu's Summer Vacation, August 1998, 8 cards
This totals 39 cards from the contests. In 2017, two additional copies surfaced and were sold on Yahoo! Japan Auctions by seller "pkonno2002," believed to be Yuichi Konno, an early developer of the TCG's ruleset, bringing the estimated total to 41 legitimate copies worldwide. The card was never released in booster packs or public events, remaining exclusive to Japan.
As of 2023, Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) had graded around 24–28 copies, with breakdowns including:
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): 1
- PSA 9 (Mint): 3–4
- PSA 8/8.5 (Near Mint-Mint): ~8–9
- Lower grades: The remainder
A Pikachu Illustrator graded Mint 9 by PSA was sold for $ 840K by Heritage on June 11, 2022, lot 36167. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
Three copies of the Pikachu Illustrator have been graded Gem Mint 10 by CGC. One of them was sold for $ 495K by Heritage on September 23, 2023, lot 36085.
A Pikachu Illustrator graded Mint 9 by CGC was sold for $ 360K by Sotheby's on September 24, 2024, lot 27. This copy is the only Pikachu Illustrator with the signature of Akabane, one of the three starters of the Pokémon franchise. That autograph has been authenticated by CGC.
Another Pikachu Illustrator graded Mint 9 by PSA was sold for $ 625K by Heritage on August 8, 2025, lot 36073. As of 2025 the PSA population in that grade has been raised to 15 with no change to the higher grade.
MT9
2026 SOLD for $ 1.4M by Heritage
Compare (before sale) PSA 83324823, sold for $ 1.4M by Heritage on March 27,2026, lot #36050, vs. PSA 21718214, Heritage lot #36167, sold on Jun 11, 2022 for $840K.
The two cards you're comparing are both 1998 Pikachu Illustrator Japanese promo cards (unnumbered CoroCoro Comics, artwork by Atsuko Nishida), each graded PSA Mint 9 (often listed as PSA 9 or MT 9). This is the ultra-rare "holy grail" of Pokémon cards, with only ~39–41 legitimate copies in existence (awarded as contest prizes in 1998, never in packs). As of early 2026, PSA population for Mint 9 stands at 15 (up from 3–4 in 2023 due to more submissions amid market hype), with only 1 PSA 10 (the Logan Paul card, which sold for a record $16,492,000 at Goldin in February 2026).
Key Details and Comparison
The two cards you're comparing are both 1998 Pikachu Illustrator Japanese promo cards (unnumbered CoroCoro Comics, artwork by Atsuko Nishida), each graded PSA Mint 9 (often listed as PSA 9 or MT 9). This is the ultra-rare "holy grail" of Pokémon cards, with only ~39–41 legitimate copies in existence (awarded as contest prizes in 1998, never in packs). As of early 2026, PSA population for Mint 9 stands at 15 (up from 3–4 in 2023 due to more submissions amid market hype), with only 1 PSA 10 (the Logan Paul card, which sold for a record $16,492,000 at Goldin in February 2026).
Key Details and Comparison
- PSA 83324823 (Heritage Lot #36050, Auction 7457):
- Current Status (as of March 3, 2026): Ongoing Heritage Auctions Signature Auction (Trading Card Games and Manga, March 27–28, 2026).
- Current Bid: $500,000 (with 44 bids placed; proxy bidding ends March 27, 2026, at 2:50 pm CT, followed by live session).
- Buyer's Premium: 25% (minimum $49), so final hammer + premium could push well higher depending on final bids.
- Condition/Notes: PSA Mint 9 certified. Features the signature pen symbol (bottom right) and "Illustrator" text (top). No detailed subgrades publicly highlighted, but described as a strong example in Heritage's listing. One of the 15 PSA 9s; emphasized as a rare opportunity during Pokémon's 30th anniversary celebrations.
- Market Context: This cert number (#83324823) has history—references indicate it was previously involved in high-profile transactions (e.g., linked to a 2025 private/collector sale around $500k in some discussions, and tied to reels/films by collectors like Beam). It's actively being bid on now, with potential to climb significantly given recent market momentum (e.g., the PSA 10 record and anniversary buzz).
- PSA 21718214 (Heritage Lot #36167, Auction 7287):
- Sale Date: June 11, 2022.
- Final Price Realized: $840,000 (including buyer's premium; headline result for that event, which totaled ~$2.9M overall).
- Condition/Notes: PSA 9 (listed as "PSA Trading Card Game 9" in archives). Same key features (pen symbol, "Illustrator" text). At the time, PSA had graded fewer Mint 9s (around 8 per older reports), making it rarer in population then. It set or tied records for PSA 9 examples in 2022, driven by early post-pandemic Pokémon boom.
- Market Context: Sold during a hotter 2022 market phase, but pre-dating the massive 2025–2026 surges (e.g., multiple PSA 9s hitting $1M+ in private sales, a standout $4M eBay sale in September 2025 from collector Scott Pratte, and the PSA 10 explosion).
- Grade & Rarity: Identical PSA 9 grade. Both are from the same ultra-limited print run. The population increase (now 15 PSA 9s vs. fewer in 2022) theoretically dilutes scarcity slightly, but demand has outpaced that due to broader hype.
- Condition/Eye Appeal: No major public differences noted—both strong Mint 9 examples without red flags. Subgrades (centering, corners, edges, surface) aren't detailed for either in public listings, but eye appeal often drives premiums in this tier (e.g., better centering can add hundreds of thousands).
- Price & Timing:
- 2022 sale ($840k) was a benchmark high at the time for PSA 9s.
- 2026 current bid ($500k starting point) is lower right now, but the auction is live and expected to escalate—likely aiming for $600k–$1M+ final (or higher if anniversary momentum carries). Recent comps show PSA 9s trading $625k (Heritage 2025) to $4M (outlier private/eBay 2025), so this could outperform the 2022 result adjusted for inflation/market growth.
- Market Shift: The card's value has skyrocketed since 2022 due to:
- The PSA 10 record ($16.49M in 2026).
- Pokémon 30th anniversary (2026) boosting visibility.
- Celebrity/collector involvement (e.g., Logan Paul trades/sales).
- Overall collectibles boom. Result: Even with more graded PSA 9s, top examples command premiums far above 2022 levels.
NM-MT 8.5
2026 SOLD for $ 730K by Goldin
Sold by Goldin on March 8, 2026, lot 1.
$727,120 stands as the final hammer price (or including buyer's premium, the total realized) for this particular 1998 Japanese CoroCoro Promo Holo Illustrator Pikachu, graded PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 and MBA Gold Diamond Certified 9, from Goldin's Pokémon 151 30th Anniversary Auction.
This result sets a clear new record for any Pikachu Illustrator card in PSA 8.5 condition. Prior public sales of PSA 8.5 examples topped out around $570,000–$610,000 (notably a $610,000 close in late 2025 at Goldin itself, and earlier ones in the $500k–$600k range depending on exact fees and timing). Jumping to $727,120 reflects continued upward momentum in the ultra-high-end Pokémon market, even for mid-to-high non-perfect grades.
A few key points on why this matters and feels impressive in context:
$727,120 stands as the final hammer price (or including buyer's premium, the total realized) for this particular 1998 Japanese CoroCoro Promo Holo Illustrator Pikachu, graded PSA NM-MT+ 8.5 and MBA Gold Diamond Certified 9, from Goldin's Pokémon 151 30th Anniversary Auction.
This result sets a clear new record for any Pikachu Illustrator card in PSA 8.5 condition. Prior public sales of PSA 8.5 examples topped out around $570,000–$610,000 (notably a $610,000 close in late 2025 at Goldin itself, and earlier ones in the $500k–$600k range depending on exact fees and timing). Jumping to $727,120 reflects continued upward momentum in the ultra-high-end Pokémon market, even for mid-to-high non-perfect grades.
A few key points on why this matters and feels impressive in context:
- Grade context: PSA 8.5 is solidly "Near Mint-Mint+" — strong eye appeal and minimal flaws, but not the ultra-premium territory of PSA 9 (which has seen $4M+ private/auction results in peak periods) or the singular PSA 10 (Logan's famous copy, which shattered records at $16.492 million just a month earlier in Goldin's February 2026 blockbuster auction). For an 8.5 to approach or exceed $700k+ shows how scarcity (only ~41 originals exist, with far fewer in top slabs) overrides strict grade ceilings when demand surges.
- Market heat: The 30th anniversary timing (Pokémon's 1996 origins hitting 2026) clearly fueled enthusiasm. Goldin's back-to-back major sales — first the Logan Paul PSA 10 spectacle, then this extended-bidding anniversary event — kept elite collectors engaged and willing to stretch for grails. This 8.5 copy's MBA Gold Diamond certification (a boutique enhancement emphasizing eye appeal beyond standard PSA) likely helped justify the premium over plain PSA 8.5 comps.
- Broader implication: Even "mid-grade" Illustrators (by ultra-rare standards) are now firmly seven-figure capable in hot auctions. This reinforces the card's status as the undisputed holy grail of Pokémon — not just for perfect 10s, but across the population. If the market stays this frothy, future PSA 8.5s could push toward $800k–$1M+, while any fresh PSA 9s or better would likely eclipse prior highs.
Special Report
Wizards of the Coast
Wizards of the Coast (WotC) handled the English-language (and international non-Asian) production, translation, and distribution of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) from late 1998 until mid-2003. This era introduced the game to the West and coincided with the height of Pokémon mania.
How WotC Got the License
In 1998, Nintendo licensed the Pokémon TCG rights outside Asia to Wizards of the Coast. WotC was a natural choice: they had pioneered the modern trading card game format with Magic: The Gathering (created by Richard Garfield) and possessed strong printing, distribution, and organized play expertise.
The license allowed WotC to adapt Japanese cards (originally produced by Media Factory) into English. The first English set, Base Set, launched on January 9, 1999, and became an instant phenomenon, fueled by the anime, video games, and collectible hype.
Hasbro acquired WotC in September 1999 for $325 million, partly due to the massive success and revenue from Pokémon cards.
Key Features of the WotC Era
WotC-era cards are highly sought after by collectors today for several reasons:
WotC also produced theme decks, booster boxes, and various promotional items. They introduced English versions of many fan-favorite cards, including the iconic Base Set Charizard (holo and non-holo).
The End of the WotC Era and Transition
By 2003, the original licensing agreement was expiring. Nintendo had formed Pokémon USA (later Pokémon Company International) to bring more control in-house. Tensions arose over several issues:
The lawsuit settled out of court in December 2003; terms were not disclosed publicly. Some accounts describe WotC entering a brief "scorched earth" phase with aggressive printing or decisions before the handover.
The first set under Pokémon Company control was EX Ruby & Sapphire (June 2003 in some regions, marking the start of the "EX" era with new mechanics like Pokémon-ex).
Legacy of WotC Pokémon TCG
The Wizards era laid the foundation for the modern Pokémon TCG. It brought the game to millions of players worldwide, established organized play structures (later continued and evolved by Pokémon Organized Play), and created the core card pool and ruleset still in use today (with many evolutions).
Vintage WotC cards remain the most valuable segment of the hobby. Base Set holos (especially Shadowless or 1st Edition Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur), Crystal-type cards from the e-Series, and complete master sets from scarcer sets like Skyridge or Neo Destiny routinely sell for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in top condition.
WotC's involvement was short (roughly 4.5 years) but transformative. It turned a Japanese card game into a global cultural force while the company balanced it alongside its flagship Magic: The Gathering. The transition to direct control by The Pokémon Company allowed for tighter integration with the video games, anime, and broader brand strategy that continues today.
Collectors often distinguish "WotC" cards (pre-2003, with the Wizards logo or specific back designs) from later "Nintendo" or "Pokémon" stamped cards. The era's beauty, scarcity in pristine condition, and historical role as the "first wave" keep it central to the TCG's 30+ year story.
How WotC Got the License
In 1998, Nintendo licensed the Pokémon TCG rights outside Asia to Wizards of the Coast. WotC was a natural choice: they had pioneered the modern trading card game format with Magic: The Gathering (created by Richard Garfield) and possessed strong printing, distribution, and organized play expertise.
The license allowed WotC to adapt Japanese cards (originally produced by Media Factory) into English. The first English set, Base Set, launched on January 9, 1999, and became an instant phenomenon, fueled by the anime, video games, and collectible hype.
Hasbro acquired WotC in September 1999 for $325 million, partly due to the massive success and revenue from Pokémon cards.
Key Features of the WotC Era
WotC-era cards are highly sought after by collectors today for several reasons:
- Classic design — Yellow borders (early sets), iconic original artwork, and the foundational card template that defined the game.
- Limited print runs — Especially for early sets and "1st Edition" or "Shadowless" variants of Base Set, which command premium prices.
- Promos and organized play — WotC ran Pokémon Leagues with Black Star Promo cards (over 50 issued), Prerelease promos, and DCI-sanctioned tournaments.
- Special mechanics — Introduction of Dark-type Pokémon (Team Rocket), Gym Leader-themed sets, and later the e-Reader (Dot Code) technology for interactive scanning with Nintendo hardware.
- Compilation sets — WotC popularized reprint sets like Base Set 2 and Legendary Collection.
- Original Series — Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, Base Set 2, Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge.
- Neo Series — Neo Genesis, Neo Discovery, Neo Revelation, Neo Destiny.
- e-Card Series — Expedition Base Set, Aquapolis, Skyridge (the final WotC set, released May 2003).
WotC also produced theme decks, booster boxes, and various promotional items. They introduced English versions of many fan-favorite cards, including the iconic Base Set Charizard (holo and non-holo).
The End of the WotC Era and Transition
By 2003, the original licensing agreement was expiring. Nintendo had formed Pokémon USA (later Pokémon Company International) to bring more control in-house. Tensions arose over several issues:
- Employee poaching (several high-ranking WotC staff moved to Pokémon USA).
- Disputes over future sets and compensation.
- Allegations that WotC wanted more creative input or to produce original content beyond straight translations.
The lawsuit settled out of court in December 2003; terms were not disclosed publicly. Some accounts describe WotC entering a brief "scorched earth" phase with aggressive printing or decisions before the handover.
The first set under Pokémon Company control was EX Ruby & Sapphire (June 2003 in some regions, marking the start of the "EX" era with new mechanics like Pokémon-ex).
Legacy of WotC Pokémon TCG
The Wizards era laid the foundation for the modern Pokémon TCG. It brought the game to millions of players worldwide, established organized play structures (later continued and evolved by Pokémon Organized Play), and created the core card pool and ruleset still in use today (with many evolutions).
Vintage WotC cards remain the most valuable segment of the hobby. Base Set holos (especially Shadowless or 1st Edition Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur), Crystal-type cards from the e-Series, and complete master sets from scarcer sets like Skyridge or Neo Destiny routinely sell for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in top condition.
WotC's involvement was short (roughly 4.5 years) but transformative. It turned a Japanese card game into a global cultural force while the company balanced it alongside its flagship Magic: The Gathering. The transition to direct control by The Pokémon Company allowed for tighter integration with the video games, anime, and broader brand strategy that continues today.
Collectors often distinguish "WotC" cards (pre-2003, with the Wizards logo or specific back designs) from later "Nintendo" or "Pokémon" stamped cards. The era's beauty, scarcity in pristine condition, and historical role as the "first wave" keep it central to the TCG's 30+ year story.
1999 Base Set
complete set
2021 SOLD for $ 680K by Goldin
Wizards of the Coast, created in 1990 in the suburbs of Seattle, ensured the transition with the prehistory of video games through the acquisition of Dungeons and Dragons in 1997. In 1998 they obtained the franchise for the edition of Pokémon cards in the United States.
The 1st Edition Gaming Card Base Set was published in January 1999 with 102 monsters irregularly distributed in the packs. The stars are Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur and the unmissable Pikachu.
These cards are divided into several groups. 1 to 16 display figures in full activity, printed on holofoil. At number 4, Charizard is one of the two most powerful in the series with 120 hit points. 17 to 69 are secondary characters, 70 to 95 are the Trainers which define the actions in the game, 96 to 102 define the various types of Energy.
The packs of eleven were made of one rare card from the ranges 1 to 22 and 70 to 79, three uncommon cards and seven common cards. The rare item was a holographic card in approximately one of every three packs. Cheaters weighed the packs for reselling the sealed packs which did not have a holographic card.
The Base Set is complete if it includes the two variants of the 58, the Pikachu with yellow cheeks and the Pikachu with red cheeks which was a printing error. On January 30, 2021, Goldin sold for $ 680K as lot 33 such a complete collection including the two 58's. Each of these 103 cards has been individually graded Gem Mint 10 by PSA.
The high rhythm of diversification ensures the success. Jungle added 64 cards in June 1999 and Fossil 62 cards in October of the same year. Meanwhile, in September, Wizards was acquired by Hasbro for around $ 325M.
The Pokémons have been able to multiply their species and variants so that the games are continuously relaunched and to include codes to be scanned to discover hidden games. Since 2016, Pokémon-Go designed for mobile phones has been a social phenomenon, including a few applications that compete with social networks.
The 1st Edition Gaming Card Base Set was published in January 1999 with 102 monsters irregularly distributed in the packs. The stars are Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur and the unmissable Pikachu.
These cards are divided into several groups. 1 to 16 display figures in full activity, printed on holofoil. At number 4, Charizard is one of the two most powerful in the series with 120 hit points. 17 to 69 are secondary characters, 70 to 95 are the Trainers which define the actions in the game, 96 to 102 define the various types of Energy.
The packs of eleven were made of one rare card from the ranges 1 to 22 and 70 to 79, three uncommon cards and seven common cards. The rare item was a holographic card in approximately one of every three packs. Cheaters weighed the packs for reselling the sealed packs which did not have a holographic card.
The Base Set is complete if it includes the two variants of the 58, the Pikachu with yellow cheeks and the Pikachu with red cheeks which was a printing error. On January 30, 2021, Goldin sold for $ 680K as lot 33 such a complete collection including the two 58's. Each of these 103 cards has been individually graded Gem Mint 10 by PSA.
The high rhythm of diversification ensures the success. Jungle added 64 cards in June 1999 and Fossil 62 cards in October of the same year. Meanwhile, in September, Wizards was acquired by Hasbro for around $ 325M.
The Pokémons have been able to multiply their species and variants so that the games are continuously relaunched and to include codes to be scanned to discover hidden games. Since 2016, Pokémon-Go designed for mobile phones has been a social phenomenon, including a few applications that compete with social networks.
Charizard
2026 SOLD for $ 950K by Goldin
The rarest in the original Base Set context often refers to the 1st Edition holo Charizard (with the "1st Edition" stamp), due to its limited print run compared to unlimited or shadowless versions. The standard (non-1st Edition) holo Charizard is highly sought after but less scarce overall.
Charizard draws from European dragon mythology, embodying fire-based offense (its Fire type drives powerful attacks like Flamethrower) and aerial mobility (Flight/flying type traits for evasion and defense in lore/battles). The name "Charizard" indeed derives from "charcoal" + "lizard" (reflecting its fiery, reptilian nature), not anything "charming"—though fans often affectionately call it that anyway!
The historical sale you mentioned is accurate: On March 6, 2021, a PSA GEM MT 10 graded 1st Edition Base Set Charizard sold for $400,000 at Goldin Auctions (lot 23 in one of their premier events), marking a major milestone at the time.
In 2023, during a high-profile factory-sealed 1999 Pokémon Base Set booster box break on Logan Paul's podcast/Impulsive channel (a record-setting break for viewership and hype), a 1st Edition holo Charizard was pulled live. It was subsequently graded PSA GEM MT 10 and carried the desirable "Logan Paul Break" pedigree (adding provenance and celebrity appeal).
This exact card was featured as lot 2 in Goldin's 2026 Pokémon & TCG Auction (which prominently included Logan Paul's Pikachu Illustrator as the headliner). The auction closed on February 15, 2026, with extended bidding into February 16, 2026. It realized $954,800 in the extended phase—reflecting strong demand for top-tier 1st Edition Charizards with unique stories, even as market prices for standard PSA 10 examples have fluctuated (recent comps in 2025 ranged from ~$168K–$550K depending on specifics like edition and sale venue).
This sale underscores Charizard's enduring status as a grail card, especially with celebrity ties boosting visibility and value. The Pokémon market remains dynamic, influenced by grading populations, hype cycles, and events like anniversaries.
Charizard draws from European dragon mythology, embodying fire-based offense (its Fire type drives powerful attacks like Flamethrower) and aerial mobility (Flight/flying type traits for evasion and defense in lore/battles). The name "Charizard" indeed derives from "charcoal" + "lizard" (reflecting its fiery, reptilian nature), not anything "charming"—though fans often affectionately call it that anyway!
The historical sale you mentioned is accurate: On March 6, 2021, a PSA GEM MT 10 graded 1st Edition Base Set Charizard sold for $400,000 at Goldin Auctions (lot 23 in one of their premier events), marking a major milestone at the time.
In 2023, during a high-profile factory-sealed 1999 Pokémon Base Set booster box break on Logan Paul's podcast/Impulsive channel (a record-setting break for viewership and hype), a 1st Edition holo Charizard was pulled live. It was subsequently graded PSA GEM MT 10 and carried the desirable "Logan Paul Break" pedigree (adding provenance and celebrity appeal).
This exact card was featured as lot 2 in Goldin's 2026 Pokémon & TCG Auction (which prominently included Logan Paul's Pikachu Illustrator as the headliner). The auction closed on February 15, 2026, with extended bidding into February 16, 2026. It realized $954,800 in the extended phase—reflecting strong demand for top-tier 1st Edition Charizards with unique stories, even as market prices for standard PSA 10 examples have fluctuated (recent comps in 2025 ranged from ~$168K–$550K depending on specifics like edition and sale venue).
This sale underscores Charizard's enduring status as a grail card, especially with celebrity ties boosting visibility and value. The Pokémon market remains dynamic, influenced by grading populations, hype cycles, and events like anniversaries.
2003 Skyridge Master Set
2026 SOLD for $ 1.22M by Heritage
Pokémon Skyridge Complete Master Set of 332 PSA Trading Card Game Gem Mint 10 (Wizards of the Coast, 2003), sold by Heritage on March 27, 2026 for $ 1.22M, lot 36090.
Pokémon Skyridge is the third and final expansion in the e-Card (e-Series) era of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, produced by Wizards of the Coast (WotC). It was released in the US on May 12, 2003 (with Japanese versions earlier in 2002 as Split Earth and Mysterious Mountains, which were combined into the English set).
History of the Skyridge Edition
Skyridge marked the end of an era for several reasons:
Skyridge is viewed as one of the most beautiful and collectible WotC sets, often ranked in the top tier alongside Base Set or other classics. Its combination of limited supply, stunning visuals (including Crystal Charizard, Crystal Celebi, and Crystal Ho-Oh), and historical significance as the "swan song" for WotC Pokémon cards has driven strong demand, especially for high-grade examples. Sealed product like booster boxes is also extremely rare and valuable.
Master Set Details
A complete master set of Skyridge expands beyond the 182-card base set to include all 332 cards. This typically comprises:
The Specific Lot Sold on March 27, 2026
This record-breaking lot at Heritage Auctions (Auction #7457, Lot #36090) was a Pokémon Skyridge Complete Master Set of 332 PSA Trading Card Game Gem Mint 10 cards from Wizards of the Coast, 2003. It sold for $1,218,750.00 (including buyer's premium, with 67 bids/registered phone bidders).
Key details of the lot:
This sale reflects the booming market for pristine vintage Pokémon TCG, where condition, completeness, and historical provenance command premium prices—especially for Skyridge, often called one of the "god-tier" sets due to its beauty, scarcity, and role as WotC's farewell. Lower-grade or partial Skyridge master sets have sold for tens or hundreds of thousands in the past, but a full PSA 10 version is in a league of its own.
Pokémon Skyridge is the third and final expansion in the e-Card (e-Series) era of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, produced by Wizards of the Coast (WotC). It was released in the US on May 12, 2003 (with Japanese versions earlier in 2002 as Split Earth and Mysterious Mountains, which were combined into the English set).
History of the Skyridge Edition
Skyridge marked the end of an era for several reasons:
- It was WotC's final Pokémon TCG set before Nintendo/The Pokémon Company took over publishing rights shortly after its release. As a result, it received only one limited print run, which contributed significantly to its long-term scarcity and rising value compared to earlier WotC sets with multiple printings.
- As part of the e-Series (following Expedition and Aquapolis), its cards featured Dot Code technology on the borders, allowing them to be scanned with Nintendo's e-Reader peripheral for the Game Boy Advance (and GameCube) to unlock mini-games, animations, or Pokémon data.
- It was the last WotC set to include Kadabra cards (due to legal issues with the character's design at the time) until much later sets.
- The set is widely praised for its artwork—often considered among the best in TCG history—with themes involving legendary birds (Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres) appearing in backgrounds as ancient statues, beautiful Eeveelution depictions, and high-quality holographic and Crystal cards.
Skyridge is viewed as one of the most beautiful and collectible WotC sets, often ranked in the top tier alongside Base Set or other classics. Its combination of limited supply, stunning visuals (including Crystal Charizard, Crystal Celebi, and Crystal Ho-Oh), and historical significance as the "swan song" for WotC Pokémon cards has driven strong demand, especially for high-grade examples. Sealed product like booster boxes is also extremely rare and valuable.
Master Set Details
A complete master set of Skyridge expands beyond the 182-card base set to include all 332 cards. This typically comprises:
- The standard cards (1–150 range).
- The 32 Holo rares (H1–H32).
- Reverse holo versions of cards 1–150.
The Specific Lot Sold on March 27, 2026
This record-breaking lot at Heritage Auctions (Auction #7457, Lot #36090) was a Pokémon Skyridge Complete Master Set of 332 PSA Trading Card Game Gem Mint 10 cards from Wizards of the Coast, 2003. It sold for $1,218,750.00 (including buyer's premium, with 67 bids/registered phone bidders).
Key details of the lot:
- All 332 cards were individually graded PSA Gem Mint 10 (perfect condition)—an extraordinarily rare achievement given the age, print quality variations, and handling risks for e-Series cards (which sometimes show wear from e-Reader scanning attempts).
- Highlights among the cards included notable chase cards such as Umbreon H30, Ho-Oh 149, Vaporeon H31, Pikachu 84, Articuno H3, Celebi 145, Kabutops 150, and Charizard 146 (plus the Crystal variants).
- Additional items (totaling 3 items in the lot description):
- 2 sealed theme decks (Eeveelution and Mind Machine).
- 4 sealed booster packs (Vaporeon, Ho-Oh, Poliwrath, and Kabutops), all graded PSA Gem Mint 10.
- 4 box topper cards, all PSA 10 (Charizard 9, Crobat 10, Ho-Oh 11, Kabutops 12).
- A card list, paper ad, and a framed set of all 4 booster pack wrappers.
This sale reflects the booming market for pristine vintage Pokémon TCG, where condition, completeness, and historical provenance command premium prices—especially for Skyridge, often called one of the "god-tier" sets due to its beauty, scarcity, and role as WotC's farewell. Lower-grade or partial Skyridge master sets have sold for tens or hundreds of thousands in the past, but a full PSA 10 version is in a league of its own.
