10 Pokémon Cards That Are Worth More Than You Think
Pokémon cards have been a staple of pop culture for decades, and some of them are now worth far more than most people realize. While Charizard cards are well-known for their high value, many other Pokémon cards can fetch surprising amounts. Whether you’re a casual collector or a dedicated investor, it’s worth keeping an eye on the market. Many of these cards have increased in value due to their rarity, condition, and historical significance. Some are only valuable because they were part of a limited release, while others gain worth over time as demand grows. If you’re sitting on a collection of old Pokémon cards, it might be time to check their value.
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Charizard 1st Edition Holo
Charizard has long been a fan-favorite Pokémon, and the 1st Edition Holo card is one of the most valuable in existence. Released in the original 1999 base set, this card has been highly sought after by collectors for decades. Due to its rarity and high demand, the price for a PSA 10 (Gem Mint) version can range anywhere from $25,000 to $250,000, depending on its condition. The 1st Edition stamp on this card significantly increases its worth.
The card’s value can fluctuate based on market trends, but it is a staple for collectors. Charizard cards, in general, have maintained a strong reputation, and the 1st Edition Holo continues to be one of the most iconic cards in the Pokémon TCG. If you are lucky enough to find one in excellent condition, it could be a substantial investment.
1999 1st Edition Shadowless Blastoise
Blastoise, another fan-favorite from the original generation of Pokémon, has a 1st Edition Shadowless Holo card that is worth much more than most expect. Released in the 1999 base set, this card stands out because it does not have the drop shadow on the right side of the Pokémon’s image. Cards in PSA 10 condition can fetch around $40,000, though the price fluctuates based on market trends.
The Shadowless version is considered rare because it was part of a printing error that resulted in a limited number of these cards being produced. As a result, these cards are highly prized among collectors. The iconic artwork of Blastoise on the Holo background has kept this card a staple in many collections, and its rarity continues to keep demand high.
1999 1st Edition Shadowless Chansey
Chansey’s 1st Edition Shadowless Holo card is another unexpected gem from the 1999 base set. With its pastel colors and iconic image of the Healing Pokémon, this card is highly sought after by collectors. In PSA 10 condition, it can sell for anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000. The absence of the drop shadow on the right side of Chansey’s image adds to its rarity, making it a valuable find.
This card’s high price is primarily due to its status as a rare variant from the original set. Chansey is not as iconic as other Pokémon like Charizard or Blastoise, but its limited availability due to the printing process makes it a collector’s item. As the Pokémon card market continues to grow, Chansey’s value shows no sign of diminishing.
1999 1st Edition Holo Nidoking
Nidoking is often overlooked in terms of value, but the 1st Edition Holo card from the 1999 base set is worth much more than people may think. This card can fetch anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on its condition. Despite not being as popular as some other Pokémon, the rarity of this card in first edition Holo form makes it valuable.
The 1st Edition stamp, combined with the limited number of these cards produced, has kept the demand for Nidoking high. The card’s value has also been driven by its historical significance in the early Pokémon TCG sets. Collectors continue to seek out rare cards from the original set, and Nidoking is no exception.
1999 1st Edition Holo Machamp
Machamp’s 1st Edition Holo card is one of the more affordable yet still valuable items in the Pokémon TCG world. The card was originally released in the 1999 base set, and in PSA 10 condition, it can sell for $3,000 to $5,000. While not as rare as some other 1st Edition cards, its value has been driven by the high demand for well-preserved copies.
What makes this card valuable is its limited print run and the popularity of Machamp as one of the original Fighting-type Pokémon. Many people overlook it in favor of more iconic characters like Charizard or Pikachu, but Machamp’s standing as a 1st Edition Holo makes it a sought-after item among collectors.
1999 1st Edition Holo Raichu
Raichu may not get as much attention as its evolutionary counterpart, Pikachu, but the 1st Edition Holo Raichu card from the 1999 base set is a highly sought-after item. In mint condition, this card can be valued between $5,000 and $8,000. The 1st Edition stamp, along with Raichu’s popularity, keeps the card in high demand among collectors.
This card’s value comes from its rarity and its appeal to both nostalgia-driven collectors and those focused on first edition variants. Raichu’s importance in the Pokémon universe, paired with the limited number of cards printed, has made this version a staple in many collections.
1999 1st Edition Holo Hitmonchan
Hitmonchan’s 1st Edition Holo card from the 1999 base set is another valuable card that collectors often overlook. In PSA 10 condition, this card can be worth between $1,500 and $4,000. It is less well-known compared to other 1st Edition Pokémon like Charizard, but its rarity has increased its value over time.
This card is valuable because it was part of the initial set of Pokémon cards, and its 1st Edition stamp makes it a must-have for many collectors. Hitmonchan’s place as a Fighting-type in the original series adds to its appeal, and the Holo version is particularly prized for its condition and rarity.
1999 1st Edition Holo Gyarados
Gyarados’ 1st Edition Holo card from the 1999 base set is another example of a Pokémon card worth far more than most people realize. In near-mint or mint condition, this card can sell for $4,000 to $6,000. The Gyarados card is not as iconic as Charizard, but it remains a popular choice among collectors, particularly those seeking out first-edition items.
As part of the original set, this Gyarados card stands out due to its vibrant holographic background and the legendary status of the Pokémon itself. The rarity of the first edition version further drives up its value, making it a prized possession for dedicated collectors.
1999 1st Edition Holo Poliwag
Poliwag is often an overlooked Pokémon, but its 1st Edition Holo card from the 1999 base set is worth far more than you may expect. In PSA 10 condition, it can be worth between $1,000 and $3,000. While not as well-known as other cards, the rarity of the 1st Edition Poliwag has made it a sought-after item among collectors.
The card’s holographic design and its place in the original base set contribute to its appeal. Given its relatively low supply and growing demand for first edition cards, this Poliwag is likely to continue increasing in value.
1999 1st Edition Holo Electrode
The 1999 1st Edition Holo Electrode card may not seem like a big deal at first glance, but it can actually be worth a fair amount. A mint version of this card can range in price from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on its condition. While Electrode may not be a fan-favorite, the scarcity of this particular first-edition Holo card makes it a valuable find.
The value of this card has increased over time due to the growing demand for rare first-edition cards from the original set. Collectors have a strong interest in completing full first-edition sets, and the Electrode card plays a key role in this pursuit.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.