Pokemon cards first gained popularity in Japan in 1996, when they were released by the company Nintendo. The cards quickly became a phenomenon and were released in other countries, including the United States, in 1998.
Pokemon cards feature creatures from the Pokemon video game and animated television show, and each card has a different creature with its own unique abilities. Players can collect and trade the cards, and can also use them to play the Pokemon trading card game.
Valuation of Pokemon Cards
The value of Pokemon cards has varied over the years, but some of the rarest and most valuable cards can fetch high prices. The Pikachu Illustrator card, for example, is considered the rarest Pokemon card in the world and has sold for as much as $100,000 at auction. Other highly prized cards include the Prerelease Raichu, which has sold for $60,000, and first edition holographic Charizard cards, which can sell for around $10,000.
The value of Pokemon cards can be influenced by a number of factors, including rarity, condition, and demand. Some collectors are willing to pay large sums of money for rare or hard-to-find cards, while others are more interested in the artwork or the gameplay aspects of the cards.
View the PSA article on the top 5 most rare cards: https://blog.psacard.com/2018/10/17/5-of-the-most-valuable-pokemon-cards/
Popular over the years
Despite fluctuations in their value, Pokemon cards have remained popular over the years and continue to have a dedicated fan base. In recent years, the release of new Pokemon games and the popularity of the Pokemon Go mobile game have helped to drive interest in the cards, and many collectors are still eager to add rare and valuable Pokemon cards to their collections.

Here are the top 10 most expensive Pokemon cards in the world today
- Pikachu Illustrator: This card was given out to the winners of the Pokémon Card Game Illustration Contest in 1998 and is considered the rarest Pokémon card in the world. Only six copies of the card are known to exist, and one sold for $100,000 at auction in 2016.
- Prerelease Raichu: This card was given to winners of the Pokémon World Championships in 1999 and is also extremely rare. Only 10 copies of the card are known to exist, and one sold for $60,000 at auction in 2019.
- Charizard: Charizard cards are highly sought after by collectors, and some versions of the card can be quite valuable. The first edition holographic Charizard card from the Base Set can sell for around $10,000.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Blastoise: This card from the Base Set is highly prized by collectors and can sell for around $6,000.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Venusaur: Like the Blastoise card, this card from the Base Set is highly prized by collectors and can sell for around $5,000.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Charizard: Another highly prized card from the Base Set, this Charizard card can sell for around $4,000.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Mewtwo: This card from the Base Set is highly sought after by collectors and can sell for around $3,500.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Machamp: This card from the Base Set is also highly sought after by collectors and can sell for around $3,000.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Alakazam: This card from the Base Set is highly prized by collectors and can sell for around $2,500.
- Holographic Shadowless First Edition Gengar: This card from the Base Set is also highly prized by collectors and can sell for around $2,000.
It’s worth noting that these prices are just estimates and the actual value of these cards may vary.
Enduring collectible
In conclusion, Pokemon cards remain a popular and enduring collectible. With their unique artwork and gameplay elements, they appeal to collectors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a fan of the Pokemon video games and animated series, or just enjoy collecting and trading cards, Pokemon cards offer endless possibilities for collectors.
Start Your Pokemon Collection
If you’re interested in getting into Pokemon card collecting, there are a few easy ways to get started. One option is to visit your local card shop or comic book store, where you may be able to find a selection of Pokemon cards for sale. You can also find Pokemon cards online through websites like eBay or through online trading communities.
To build your collection, you can focus on collecting specific sets or types of cards, or try to acquire rare and valuable cards. You can also join a Pokemon card trading group or club, which can be a great way to meet other collectors and trade cards.
Overall, Pokemon cards offer a fun and rewarding hobby for collectors of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced collector, there’s always something new to discover and enjoy in the world of Pokemon cards.