Top 14 Most Expensive Pokémon Cards Ever Sold
Over the years, Pokémon cards have risen in value, with some becoming prized possessions that are highly sought after. For collectors, owning a rare card can be a lifelong dream, while for investors, it is a serious business. These cards are more than just paper; they are works of art and history that hold significant worth. The market for Pokémon cards continues to grow, and with it, the prices of the rarest finds.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.
64 Mario Stadium Squirtle
The 64 Mario Stadium Squirtle card was released in 1999 as part of a special giveaway event for the Pokémon Stadium game. It was only available in Japan, with limited quantities distributed. This card was sold at an auction for $50,000 in 2021, making it one of the rarest Pokémon cards ever sold. It is a holographic Squirtle card with a distinct Mario Stadium design, a nod to the Pokémon video game franchise.
Currently, its estimated market value is around $60,000, though prices can vary depending on its condition and demand. This card is incredibly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and nostalgic appeal. As a promotional item tied to the Pokémon Stadium game, its scarcity contributes to its high value. Given its condition and special status, the card’s market value could continue to climb over time.
1999 Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind
The Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind card was part of the 1999 Tropical Mega Battle event in Hawaii. Only a few hundred of these cards were distributed to tournament winners and participants. It was sold at auction for $65,000 in 2020, an incredible price for such a rare item. The card features a unique Tropical Wind holographic design, making it a standout piece in any Pokémon collection.
Its estimated current market value is around $75,000, depending on the condition and the auction house. Due to its limited distribution and connection to a prestigious event, this card is highly coveted among collectors. It holds a special place in Pokémon history, not just for its rarity but also for its association with early competitive events. The Tropical Wind card continues to appreciate in value as the Pokémon card market grows.
1999 Tropical Battle No. 2 Trainer Promo
The 1999 Tropical Battle No. 2 Trainer card was awarded to the second-place winners of the Tropical Mega Battle tournament held in Hawaii. Only a small number of these cards were ever given out. The card fetched an auction price of $55,000 in 2020, reflecting its rarity and significance. It features a No. 2” Trainer logo, highlighting the achievement of being one of the top competitors in a prestigious event.
Its current market value is estimated at around $65,000, based on its condition and rarity. The card is highly coveted by collectors due to its limited release and connection to the early days of competitive Pokémon. With the growth of the Pokémon card market, its value is expected to continue increasing. As a result, this card is considered one of the most valuable in the Pokémon world.
2006 World Championships No. 2 Trainer Promo
The 2006 World Championships No. 2 Trainer card was awarded to the second-place winners at the 2006 Pokémon World Championships in Anaheim, California. The card is a rare promo that was not widely available to the public. At auction, it sold for $40,000 in 2019, which is a significant amount for a card from this era. The card features the No. 2” Trainer title, commemorating the achievement of reaching second place in the prestigious competition.
The current market value is estimated to be around $50,000, depending on its condition. This card is desirable for collectors due to its limited release and connection to a significant event in the Pokémon competitive scene. Its rarity and the prestige associated with the Pokémon World Championships make it an important piece for collectors. The card’s value is likely to rise as the interest in vintage Pokémon cards continues to grow.
Trophy Pikachu No. 2 Trainer
The Trophy Pikachu No. 2 Trainer card was awarded to the second-place winner at the 1998 Pokémon World Championships. Only a few of these cards were distributed, making them highly valuable. This card was sold at auction for $225,000 in 2020, setting a record for its category. It features Pikachu, one of the most beloved Pokémon, alongside the No. 2” Trainer logo, a testament to the achievement of second place in the competition.
The current market value is estimated to be around $250,000. This card’s rarity and the fact that it was awarded at one of the earliest World Championships contribute to its high value. As the Pokémon card market continues to grow, this card remains one of the most sought-after and valuable pieces for collectors. Its connection to Pikachu and the World Championships ensures it will continue to be a top prize for collectors.
Family Event Trophy Kangaskhan
The Family Event Trophy Kangaskhan card was awarded to winners of a special family event in Japan in 1998. Only a handful of these cards were produced, making it one of the rarest Pokémon cards. In 2021, this card sold at auction for $150,000, a significant price for such a unique piece of Pokémon history. The card features a holographic Kangaskhan, a popular Pokémon in the franchise.
Its current market value is estimated at $170,000, based on its rarity and condition. This card’s connection to a special event and limited distribution make it highly sought after. As one of the most iconic cards in the Pokémon world, it holds immense value for collectors. The Kangaskhan card’s history and scarcity continue to drive up its price, making it a valuable investment for enthusiasts.
Signed Japanese First Edition Base Set Holo Charizard
The Signed Japanese First Edition Base Set Holo Charizard was released in 1996 as part of the first set of Pokémon cards in Japan. This card is highly sought after because it is signed by a prominent Pokémon illustrator. In 2020, it was sold at auction for $220,000, one of the highest prices for a signed Pokémon card. The card features Charizard, one of the most iconic Pokémon in the series, with holographic artwork.
Its current market value is estimated at $250,000. The card’s signed status adds a layer of uniqueness and historical significance that contributes to its high price. As one of the most recognizable Pokémon cards, its value continues to rise due to its limited availability and the iconic status of Charizard. This card is a prized possession for collectors, especially those who are passionate about the history of Pokémon.
First Edition Base Set Holo Charizard
The First Edition Base Set Holo Charizard card was released in 1999 as part of the original Pokémon card set. It is widely regarded as one of the most valuable Pokémon cards in existence. At auction, this card was sold for $250,000 in 2020, making it one of the highest-selling Pokémon cards at the time. The card features a holographic Charizard, a fan-favorite Pokémon, and is one of the most sought-after cards in the Pokémon card market.
The current market value of this card is estimated to be around $300,000, depending on its condition and the demand in the market. Due to its iconic status and connection to the first-ever Pokémon card set, it remains a top collectible. Its high value is further driven by its status as a first-edition card, making it highly desirable for serious collectors. As the Pokémon card market continues to expand, this card’s value is expected to increase over time.
Pikachu Illustrator
The Pikachu Illustrator card was awarded to winners of an illustration contest in Japan in 1998. It was never commercially released and was instead given to a select few, making it one of the rarest Pokémon cards. This card sold for $224,000 at auction in 2019, setting a new record for the most expensive Pokémon card at the time. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original designer of Pikachu, and is celebrated for its connection to the Pokémon franchise’s history.
Its current market value is estimated at $250,000, based on its rarity and importance. The card holds significant value because it was never intended for public release, making it an exclusive collector’s item. As one of the most iconic cards in the Pokémon universe, its market price is expected to keep rising. This card is especially cherished by fans of Pikachu and the history of the Pokémon brand.
2005 Play Promo Holo Umbreon
The 2005 Play Promo Holo Umbreon was released as part of a special promotional event for the Pokémon TCG World Championships. Only a select number of these cards were distributed to top players and winners. It was sold for $40,000 at auction in 2019, with prices continuing to rise due to its rarity and popularity. The card features a holographic Umbreon, one of the most beloved Eeveelutions, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Its current market value is estimated at $50,000, based on demand and its condition. The Play Promo cards are particularly valuable due to their limited release and association with major Pokémon events. This Umbreon card is special because it marks a significant point in the Pokémon card game’s evolution. As one of the rarer promotional cards, its value continues to grow among dedicated collectors.
First Edition Neo Genesis Holo Lugia
The First Edition Neo Genesis Holo Lugia card was released in 2000 as part of the Neo Genesis set in the Pokémon TCG. This card is highly prized for its stunning artwork and its connection to the second generation of Pokémon. It was sold at auction for $144,000 in 2020, a price driven by its iconic status among fans. The holographic Lugia card is known for its incredible design and its rarity in high-grade condition.
Its estimated market value is around $160,000, depending on the card’s condition and market fluctuations. The card holds significant value due to its first-edition status, making it a top collectible for fans of the second-generation Pokémon. Lugia is a fan-favorite Legendary Pokémon, which only increases the card’s appeal. As more collectors pursue rare cards from the Neo Genesis set, this card’s value continues to appreciate.
Disco Holofoil Charizard test print
The Disco Holofoil Charizard test print card was produced as part of a limited test print run in the 1990s, making it one of the rarest Pokémon cards. It features an experimental holographic print that was never released to the public. This card sold at auction for $220,000 in 2021, a price that reflects its rarity and experimental nature. The card is a variant of the iconic Charizard card, which adds to its appeal among collectors.
Its current market value is estimated at $250,000, due to its uniqueness and the high demand for rare Pokémon cards. As a test print, only a handful of these cards were made, contributing to its exceptional rarity. This card remains highly sought after by both collectors and investors. Given the rarity and historical significance, its value is expected to continue climbing.
CoroCoro Bulbasaur
The CoroCoro Bulbasaur card was released in 1997 as part of a CoroCoro magazine promotion in Japan. Only a few copies of this card were distributed, making it a rare find for collectors. It was sold for $55,000 at an auction in 2020, with its price being driven by its scarcity and popularity among fans of Bulbasaur. The card features a unique holographic Bulbasaur, one of the original starter Pokémon, giving it special appeal to collectors.
The current market value of this card is estimated at $65,000, depending on its condition. As one of the first promotional Pokémon cards released in Japan, it holds significant historical value. Its rarity and the love for Bulbasaur have ensured that this card remains a high-value item. As the Pokémon card market continues to grow, its value is expected to appreciate.
Magikarp Tamamushi University Promo
The Magikarp Tamamushi University Promo card was awarded to winners of a 1998 event in Japan. Only a handful of these cards were produced, making it incredibly rare. It sold for $66,000 at auction in 2020, a price reflecting its rarity and the fact that it was awarded as part of a special event. The card features the iconic Magikarp in a unique design that makes it stand out among other promotional cards.
Its estimated current market value is around $75,000. The card’s rarity, combined with its association with a highly sought-after Pokémon, makes it a valuable collectible. Magikarp, despite its unassuming nature, remains beloved by fans, contributing to the card’s continued appeal. As one of the most coveted Pokémon promotional cards, its market value continues to rise.
The Pokémon card market remains as exciting as ever, with certain cards achieving prices that continue to impress. As the demand for rare and vintage cards increases, these iconic pieces show no signs of losing their value. The world of Pokémon cards offers endless opportunities for both nostalgia and investment.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.