10 Best Pokémon Lunchboxes and School Gear That Became Rare

Pokémon lunchboxes and school gear were once everyday items for fans, but some have now become highly sought-after collectibles. These items gain rarity due to their limited editions or unique collaborations that make them stand out. Some were produced in small quantities, while others were part of special promotions. Over the years, these items have gained value as demand grows among collectors. If you’re lucky enough to own one, you may be surprised at how much it’s worth today.

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1999 Pokémon Mewtwo and Mew Metal Lunch Box

Released in 1999 by Nintendo, this lunch box features the iconic Mewtwo and Mew, marking it as one of the earliest pieces of Pokémon merchandise. The metal design and vibrant graphics quickly made it a favorite among collectors, and its rarity has only increased over time. As one of the original Pokémon-themed items, it has become highly sought after, with an estimated value of around $120 today. The durability of the metal design and the nostalgic artwork make it a standout piece for fans. Over the years, its popularity has been bolstered by the limited number of units produced and its association with the early Pokémon boom.

Collectors value this lunch box not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its place in Pokémon history. The bright and iconic character artwork adds to its nostalgic value, making it a treasured item among collectors. Finding one in good condition is a rare occurrence, further increasing its desirability.

Pokémon TCG 2017 Shining Legends Collector’s Chest Lunch Box

This lunch box, released in 2017, was tied to the Shining Legends trading card series by The Pokémon Company International. Packed with exclusive tins and trading card packs, the box has become a rare collector’s item, with prices now reaching around $385 for unopened versions. The themed design, featuring legendary Pokémon like Mewtwo and Shining Celebi, set it apart from other Pokémon gear. Its rarity is due to the limited production and strong connection to the collectible card game, making it a dual-purpose item for both collectors and fans of Pokémon merchandise.

The Shining Legends set is a key part of the Pokémon TCG series, and the lunch box was released in a smaller batch, further contributing to its rarity. Many collectors seek sealed versions to preserve the original content, which increases its market value. The lunch box itself is also a standout display piece with its vibrant artwork and connection to the popular Pokémon card series.

Fall 2019 Pokémon Armored Mewtwo Collector’s Chest Lunch Box

The Armored Mewtwo lunch box, released as part of the 2019 collection, is a rare item from the Pokémon movie tie-ins. Its limited run and strong connection to the popular Pokémon Detective Pikachu movie have made it a highly sought-after collector’s item, with values reaching over $1,300 for sealed versions. The lunch box features stunning artwork of Armored Mewtwo, a character that only appeared in a special movie promotion. The exclusivity of the release adds to its appeal, with fans rushing to collect this item upon its initial release.

What sets this lunch box apart from others is its unique character design and its limited availability during the movie’s release. The bright, eye-catching artwork of Mewtwo in his armored form is a favorite among fans. Because the box was part of a special promotional set, fewer were made, which has contributed to its increasing value.

Pikachu Detective Case File Lunchbox

Released as part of the promotional merchandise for Detective Pikachu in 2019, this lunch box became rare due to its limited availability. Featuring Detective Pikachu alongside iconic Pokémon characters, this lunch box is a rare find for fans of the movie and the series. Unopened versions of this item have been sold for over $500, making it one of the more expensive Pokémon lunch boxes in the market. The inclusion of the movie’s themed graphics adds to its uniqueness, setting it apart from regular Pokémon gear.

Collectors love the connection to the Detective Pikachu movie and the fact that it is one of the few items tied directly to the film. The vibrant graphics and inclusion of exclusive extras like cards or stickers make it highly desirable. As time passes, its rarity only increases, especially for those looking for a piece of the cinematic Pokémon universe. Its status as a limited edition promotional item gives it lasting appeal for both collectors and movie fans alike.

Vintage Pokémon Pocket Monsters Bento Box by Skater Co.

This unique bento-style lunch box was produced in the early 2000s by Skater Co. in Japan, and it stands out for its rarity and cultural significance. Although it was originally a practical item for schoolchildren, it has since become a sought-after collector’s piece, with prices ranging between $20 and $30. The simple, yet charming design featuring early Pokémon characters is part of what makes it so appealing to fans. As a Japan-exclusive item, it was never widely available outside the country, which only adds to its rarity today.

The compact design of the bento box and its high-quality material make it a durable collectible. As a part of early Pokémon merchandise, it represents a period of the franchise that is cherished by fans who appreciate the history. Its minimalist style, coupled with the iconic Pokémon art, continues to draw collectors who seek a nostalgic piece from the brand’s early year

Pokémon TCG 2024 Spring Collector Chest Lunch Box

Released in 2024, this lunch box was part of a special promotional set tied to the Battle Styles TCG expansion. Included in the chest were exclusive foil cards and booster packs, which made it a desirable item for both collectors and TCG players. The lunch box features vivid graphics from the Battle Styles expansion, and sealed versions have been priced around $50. The limited availability during the release window contributed to its rarity, as the item was not mass-produced for general sale.

Collectors often purchase this item for the combination of its function and collectible nature. The sturdy, vibrant design makes it a fantastic display piece while offering fans the chance to collect Pokémon TCG items in one convenient package. Over time, its value may increase, especially as fewer remain in original condition. As a part of a popular card set, it holds strong appeal for Pokémon TCG enthusiasts.

Pokémon Pikachu and Starters Backpack Set

Produced in the early 2000s, this backpack and lunch box set featuring Pikachu and the original starter Pokémon became a collectible set due to its uniqueness. Although still priced modestly around $140 to $590 for complete sets, its rare nature comes from the combination of practical school gear and iconic Pokémon branding. The set includes a lunch box, backpack, water bottle, and sometimes a pencil case, making it a comprehensive Pokémon set for school days. Its appeal to collectors is due to its original design and the high quality of the gear.

The rarest versions include the complete set with all the accessories still intact, and those in mint condition fetch a premium. Fans love the vibrant artwork of Pikachu and the starters, which are a beloved part of Pokémon lore. The set’s multi-piece nature and durability give it lasting appeal, and it remains a popular choice for collectors who seek full sets.

Pokémon Charizard Collectors Treasure Chest Lunch Box

This Charizard-themed lunch box was released as part of a collector’s treasure chest set and features the popular fire-type Pokémon. It became rare due to its limited production and the addition of exclusive card packs, with prices hovering around $50 to $150 for sealed versions. The themed design prominently features Charizard in all its glory, which makes it particularly desirable for fans of this beloved Pokémon. Many collectors consider it a must-have for any collection due to its connection to one of the most iconic Pokémon.

Collectors prize this item because it combines a practical lunch box with a collector’s treasure chest full of Pokémon goodies. The box itself is designed to be used for card storage, and its sturdy construction ensures its longevity. The exclusive cards that come with it make it a bonus for fans of the trading card game, adding value to an already sought-after item.

Vintage Pokémon Eevee and Evolutions Metal Lunch Box

This metal lunch box from 1999 features Eevee and its evolutions, representing a fan-favorite Pokémon family. Its vintage status and the iconic design make it a rare find today, with well-preserved versions being valued at approximately $34. The use of metal instead of plastic ensures its durability and longevity, which contributes to its lasting appeal among collectors. As one of the few Pokémon lunch boxes featuring the entire Eevee evolution line, it has become a must-have for fans of the series.

The nostalgic value of this lunch box is amplified by its iconic characters and the quality of the metal design. Collectors appreciate the unique character lineup, which showcases Eevee and its evolutions in a vibrant, eye-catching design. This lunch box stands out from other Pokémon merchandise due to its rarity and the enduring popularity of Eevee in the franchise.

Pokémon 1999 Limited Edition First Movie Lunch Box with Thermos

Released in 1999, this lunch box was part of the promotional merchandise for the first Pokémon movie. Featuring a striking design with Pikachu and other iconic Pokémon, it was sold with an accompanying thermos. This set has become quite rare, with unopened versions priced at around $250 due to its limited production. The vibrant artwork and inclusion of the thermos, a unique feature for many lunch boxes, add to its desirability among collectors.

The rarity of this item comes from its limited release during the movie’s premiere and the combination of a lunch box with a thermos that has become hard to find in mint condition. Collectors cherish it not just for its design but also for its nostalgic value, representing the beginning of the Pokémon movie franchise.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.