10 Most Expensive Charizard Cards: Ultimate List (2024)

When it comes to Pokémon cards, one name reigns supreme: Charizard. This fiery dragon has ignited bidding wars and shattered records in the Pokémon TCG community. But just how valuable can these cards get?

In this blog, we'll explore the most expensive Charizard card items ever sold—a card so rare and coveted that they become the most valuable cards for collectors worldwide. Buckle up, because the numbers will blow your mind.

Top 10 Most Expensive Charizard Cards

1. Charizard, Base Set 004 (1st Edition)

Average Price: $266,844.26 (PSA 10)

Description: The Charizard Base Set 004 (1st Edition) is the holy grail of Pokémon cards, especially in the Pokémon TCG community.

As one of the original print runs, this iconic card is the epitome of collectible value, featuring the original Charizard in all its fiery glory.

The fact that this rare card is one of the earliest cards released make it highly sought after in the trading card game.

Graded 10 copies of this card have fetched high prices, solidifying its status as one of the most valuable Charizard cards in Pokemon history.

2. Charizard, Base Set 004 ("Disco" Test Print)

Average Price: $50,000

Description: The Charizard Base Set 004 ("Disco" Test Print) is one of the most intriguing and rare cards in the Pokémon franchise.

This unique variant, often referred to as the "Disco" Charizard due to its vibrant, holofoil pattern, was part of an experimental print run.

It wasn't officially released, making it a prized possession in terms of Pokémon card collecting.

The rarity and the mysterious nature of its origin contribute to its high value on the market, making it one of the most valuable Charizard cards ever produced.

3. Charizard Star, Dragon Frontiers 100

Average Price: $17,700.50 (PSA 10)

Description: Charizard Star from the Dragon Frontiers [1] expansion is a masterpiece of the Pokemon TCG, combining three exceptional qualities: Darkness-type, Delta Species, and a Shiny variant.

This rare combination has made it one of the most unusual and beloved cards ever printed. Illustrated by Masakazu Fukuda, the card's dramatic and contrasting artwork enhances its allure.

Its influence is still felt in modern Charizard variants, making Charizard Star a valuable Charizard card that commands top dollar in the secondary market.

4. Charizard, Legendary Collection 003 (Reverse Holofoil)

Average Price: $15,243.51 (PSA 10)

Description: This Charizard card from the Legendary Collection stands out due to its unique reverse holofoil treatment. You'll see how the foil covers everything except the art frame.

This reprint set included cards from Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, and Dark Charizard Team Rocket, with Charizard emerging as the most coveted. The Reverse Holofoil cards feature a distinct texture like a fireworks display.

With only 81 graded cards (PSA 10), this card is rarer and more valuable than its standard holofoil counterpart, driving its high market price.

5. Charizard, Skyridge 146 (Holofoil)

Average Price: $13,842.25 (PSA 10)

Description: The Charizard from the Skyridge set is a true gem in the Pokemon TCG, revered for its rarity and historical significance.

As a Secret Rare, this card's number exceeds the advertised count of the set, making it a challenging pull for collectors.

Illustrated by the renowned Pokémon artist Kouki Saitou, this card holds the distinction of being the last Charizard printed by Wizards of the Coast.

Its scarcity and unique status within the Pokemon franchise make it one of the most expensive Charizard cards in existence.

6. Shining Charizard, Neo Destiny 107 (First Edition)

Average Price: $10,097.90 (PSA 10)

Description: The Shining Charizard from the Neo Destiny [2] set is a landmark card in Pokemon TCG history. Released in English in 2002, it was the first card to showcase a Shiny Charizard.

It initially features a rare lavender tint before it was changed to a dark Charizard in later generations. Anyone would like its pioneering role and unique appearance, influencing its impressive value.

Illustrated by Hironobu Yoshida, who also created Shining Celebi and other cards, this 1st Edition version is highly coveted by collectors and fans.

7. Charizard, Expedition 006 (Holofoil)

Average Price: $8,096.40 (PSA 10)

Description: The Charizard from the Expedition set is a standout from the e-Card Series, known for its integration with the Nintendo e-Reader.

Released in 2002, Expedition was the largest Pokémon set of its time, consolidating five Japanese sets and featuring 165 cards.

This Holofoil version of Charizard, illustrated by Hiromichi Sugiyama, is particularly notable among collectors.

Due to the large set size and the card’s rarity, it often commands higher prices than older cards from sets like Team Rocket.

The Expedition set also included a non-holo version, but the Holofoil is much more sought after.

8. Charizard, Expedition 039 (For Position Only)

Average Price: $8,000.00

Description: The Charizard Expedition 039 (For Position Only) card is a rare artifact from the Pokémon TCG’s early days.

Created as part of test packs for internal use by Wizards of the Coast, this card was never intended for public release. So, the "For Position Only" mark makes it a unique collector's item.

Featuring artwork by Atsuko Nishida, known for designing some of Pokémon’s most adorable characters, this version of Charizard stands out for its charm and rarity.

Any collector will love its elusive nature and distinctive history, which ontributes to its high value.

9. Charizard, XY Evolutions 011 (Prerelease, Staff)

Average Price: $7,021.43 (PSA 10)

Description: Released in 2016, the Charizard from the XY Evolutions set commemorates the 20th Anniversary of the Pokemon franchise with reprints of classic promo cards.

While the standard version is relatively common, the Staff Prerelease version stands out due to its rarity.

This special card, marked with a "STAFF" stamp in the lower left of the art box, was exclusively given to event organizers and included in limited Prerelease Kits.

The unique status and scarcity make it a highly sought-after item in the trading card game [3].

10. Blaine's Charizard, Gym Challenge 002 (1st Edition)

Average Price: $3,815.25 (PSA 10)

Description: Blaine's Charizard from the Gym Challenge set is a cherished card among collectors, featuring a design inspired by the Gen I Gym Leaders.

Although Blaine doesn’t use a Charizard in the original Red & Blue games, he does in Pokémon Stadium, adding to the card’s appeal.

Illustrated by Ken Sugimori, a key artist for Pokemon TCG from the Base Set to Silver Tempest, this edition card stands out for its nostalgic value and distinctive artwork.

Its place in the Gym Challenge set and its unique artistic pedigree contribute to its considerable worth.

Prices By Grade

Below are the average prices of valuable Charizard cards as of writing:

FAQs

Why is the 1st edition Charizard so expensive?

The 1st Edition Charizard is expensive due to its status as one of the original Pokemon cards, its iconic artwork, and its scarcity. This card's value is further driven by its historical significance and high demand among collectors, especially in Gem Mint condition.

How many 1st edition Charizard cards are there?

The number of 1st Edition Charizard cards are not publicly known, but it's estimated that several thousand were printed. However, only a fraction remains in pristine condition, contributing to its rarity and high value in the market.

How rare is Charizard V?

Charizard V, introduced in the Sword & Shield series, is relatively rare compared to common cards but not as scarce as vintage Charizard cards. Its rarity varies depending on the set and print run.

Is a Charizard EX rare?

Yes, Charizard EX cards are considered rare, especially in high grades. These cards, from various sets like XY Evolutions and the Leafgreen set, are popular among collectors for their powerful in-game abilities and striking designs, which contribute to their rarity and value.

Is Charizard Ox rare?

There is no known "Charizard Ox" card in the Pokémon TCG [4]. If you meant a different variant or misspelled a card name, please clarify, as Charizard cards come in many forms but "Charizard Ox" is not a secret rare or anything.

What is the rarest Charizard called?

The rarest Charizard is often considered to be the 1st Edition Charizard Base Set, particularly in Gem Mint condition. Other rare Pokemon and most valuable Charizard cards include Shiny Charizard and Charizard Star. However, the 1st Edition remains the most coveted due to its historical significance.

Let's Play!

Charizard cards hold a special place of prestige and value. From the iconic 1st release, which commands higher prices, to the unique Shining and Reverse Holofoil variants, each card tells a story of rarity and desirability.

If you’re a seasoned collector or new to the scene, understanding the appeal of these expensive cards provides insight into why they remain so coveted.

Their high prices reflect not only their scarcity but also their significant impact on the franchise. For collectors, owning one of these legendary cards is a mark of true dedication.

Ready to expand your collection? Explore the impressive Pokémon collection at Toynk today and find your next prized memorabilia!

References:

1. https://bulbapedia.bulbagarden.net/wiki/EX_Dragon_Frontiers_(TCG)
2. https://pokemon.fandom.com/wiki/Neo_Destiny
3. https://parents.pokemon.com/en-us/
4. https://www.philstar.com/sports/2023/12/28/2321915/pokemon-tcg-enjoys-resurgence