From the elusive Black Star Promo to the coveted Pikachu Illustrator, rare Pokémon Cards are the crown jewels of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
Discover which valuable Pikachu Cards command the highest prices and why these iconic cards, like the 1st Edition Pikachu or the legendary Pikachu Trophy Cards, are breaking records in collector circles.
Get ready to electrify your investment portfolio with the most Valuable Pikachu Cards ever printed!
Top 12 Rarest Pikachu Cards
1. Pokémon Illustrator – 1998 CoroCoro Comics Promo
The Pikachu Illustrator is a standout among valuable Pokémon cards for its rarity, released in 1998 as part of a CoroCoro Comics art competition.
This extremely rare card was illustrated by Atsuko Nishida, one of Pikachu's original creators. Only 39 copies are believed to exist, making it a holy grail for collectors.
Why It’s Special
Pokémon Illustrator – 1998 CoroCoro Comics Promo card is the rarest Pokémon card overall. Its value has soared over the years, with recent sales reaching up to $6,000,000 for a PSA Gem Mint 10 version.
The card's unique artwork, first print run, and historical significance contribute to its high prices. High-profile purchases by celebrities like Logan Paul and Blake Martinez only add to its trend. Among collectible Pokémon cards, this is one of the expensive cards to date.
2. No. 1-3 Gold, Silver & Bronze Trophy Pikachu – 1998 Lizardon Mega Battle Tournament
The No. 1-3 Trophy Pikachu cards are among the most prestigious prizes in Pokémon history.
Awarded to the first, second, and third place winners of the 1999 Lizardon Mega Battle Tournament in Japan, these promo cards feature Mitsuhiro Arita’s iconic red-cheeks Pikachu art. Each card commemorates a unique achievement in Pokémon competitive game [1].
Why It’s Special
These Trophy Pikachu cards are incredibly rare and coveted due to their limited number, with only a few copies exist awarded to tournament winners in Japan.
As one of the valuable cards with high demand among collectors, this makes The Bronze Trophy Pikachu exclusive card sold for an astonishing $192,000.
3. No. 2 Trainer – 2006 Pokémon World Championships Promo
Description: The 2006 Pokémon World Championships Pikachu Promo No. 2 Trainer card is a valuable card awarded to top finalists in the 2006 tournament held in Anaheim, California.
This valuable Pikachu card features Pikachu holding a silver trophy. Only a handful were awarded, making it a highly sought-after Pikachu card.
Why It’s Special
This Pikachu card stands out due to its rarity and connection to special events in the Pokémon franchise. Its value is substantial, as only a few copies exist, including the only PSA-graded example.
In fact, its recent sale for $110,000 highlights its importance and appeal to serious collectors and investors.
4. Gold Pikachu – 2016 20th Anniversary Promo
The Gold Pikachu card, released in 2016 to celebrate the Pokémon franchise’s 20th anniversary, is crafted from solid 24-karat gold.
This exclusive card, created in collaboration with the jewelry company Ginza Tanaka, was available only through a lottery system. Winners paid approximately $2,000 for the promo card, encased in a custom glass holder.
Why It’s Special
As a symbol of Pokémon's milestone anniversary, this Gold Pikachu card combines high intrinsic value with collectible prestige.
The card’s value has soared, with recent sales reaching $29,520, making it one of the most valuable Pikachu cards. The unique combination of gold and Pokémon makes it a gorgeous card for fans and collectors.
5. “Sample” Pikachu – 2002 e-Reader Sample Set
Released as part of a promotional effort to showcase the e-Reader system for the Nintendo Gameboy Advance, this Sample Pikachu card was among a set of 10 sample e-Cards distributed during a press conference.
This card was designed to enhance gameplay by allowing players to swipe special cards that unlocked additional content, such as specific events, characters, or minigames.
The Sample Pikachu card features the iconic yellow electric mouse in its original form, intended to demonstrate the potential of the e-Reader system.
Why It's Special
Only 20 copies of each sample card are believed to exist, making these cards a legendary collection. One of these Sample Pikachu cards recently sold for an impressive $12,500.
As one of the rarest Pokémon cards, it appeals strongly to collectors interested in the rich history and unique memorabilia of Pokémon.
6. Gold Star Pikachu – 2006 EX Holon Phantoms
The Gold Star Pikachu from the 2006 EX Holon Phantoms expansion is one of the most sought-after Pikachu cards in the Pokémon TCG. This Pikachu Star is distinguished by its Shiny variant.
As part of the late EX era, Holon Phantoms introduced this shiny Pikachu with a special "Gold Star" designation, making it a standout among Pokémon cards of its time.
Why It's Special
The Gold Star Pikachu card represents the first Shiny Pikachu card ever printed in English. Due to its high demand among anime fans, it is one of the most valuable Pikachu cards and can command prices as high as $5,700.
The distinctive art featuring Pikachu with a defiant pose and crossed arms adds to its desirability. Its limited printed run also makes the Gold Star Pikachu a prize gem in the world of Pokemon TCG.
7. Mario & Luigi Pikachu – 2016 Pokémon XY Promos
This Mario & Luigi Pokémon card from the 2016 Pokémon XY Promos is a delightful and rare set. It was part of the Cosplay Pikachu promo line to highlight Pikachu in various themed outfits for contests and special battles.
The Mario & Luigi Pikachu cards are particularly notable for their charming depiction of Pikachu dressed as the famous video game characters Mario and Luigi.
Why It's Special
Released only in Japan, these cards are rare and difficult to find outside the country. In 2021, a complete set of these Cosplay cards sold for $7,000. Their limited availability and charming design make them a prized addition to any collection of rare Pokémon cards.
8. “Red Cheeks” Pikachu – 1999 Base Set
The “Red Cheeks” Pikachu from the 1999 Base Set is a valuable variant of one of Pokémon's most iconic cards. Pikachu, known for his electric abilities, was originally depicted with yellow cheeks in the Base Set artwork.
However, a mix-up by Wizards of the Coast led to several early printings featuring Pikachu with reddish cheeks instead. This mistake was corrected, but a small number of these red-cheeked versions were released before the change was made.
Why It's Special
This variant includes two rare characteristics: it is a 1st Edition card marked by a distinctive stamp on the bottom right corner and belongs to the Shadowless print run.
Only Pokémon cards from the initial print runs of Base Set are 1st Edition and Shadowless. With a value around $6,900, this is a prized find and a notable piece in the history of Pokemon TCG.
9. Pikachu Reverse Holo – 2002 Legendary Collection
The Pikachu Reverse Holo is from the 2002 Legendary Collection of the Pokemon TCG. This card revisits and reprints popular Pokémon from earlier sets like Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, and Team Rocket.
It features the familiar Pikachu artwork from the original Base Set, but with the background adorned with a fireworks pattern in holofoil.
Why It's Special
The addition of the fireworks holofoil background gives the card a distinct and attractive look that sets it apart from the original Base Set Pikachu.
With sales reaching around $6,900, it's one of the most valuable cards that reflects the classic designs and the enhanced aesthetics of the reverse holofoil printing technique.
10. “No Number” Pikachu – 1997 Topsun Series
Released by Top-Seika, this “No Number” Pikachu card from the 1997 Topsun Series is a rare promo card series packaged with gum and featured a total of 150 cards.
The design of the Topsun cards is distinctive, with a large image of the Pokémon [2] on the front. Its blue backing was replaced with red in later prints, adding to the limited counts of the early versions.
Why It's Special
The “No Number” Pikachu card is particularly rare due to a printing error. One such card sold for $6,767 on PWCC, highlighting its significance and desirability in the Pokémon card market.
This card’s rarity is a testament to the early days of Pokémon merchandise and the enduring appeal of Pikachu as a central character in the Pokemon TCG.
11. _____’s Pikachu (Birthday Pikachu) – WotC Black Star Promo #24
Also known as the Birthday Pikachu, it's a unique and highly collectible WOTC Black Star promo card. Released as part of the Pokémon League Summer Training Tour [3] in 1999, this was distributed to participants who competed in the “Create a Baby Pokémon” contest.
The card features Pikachu with a birthday-themed design and includes a blank space where participants could personalize it with their name.
Why It's Special
The card's personalizable feature, allowing owners to add their name, adds a layer of exclusivity and personal connection to the card.
A graded copy of this card sold for $6,750 at auction reflected its high value. Its association with a significant event in Pokémon TCG history and its distinct design make the Birthday Pikachu a standout in any collection of rare Pikachu cards.
12. Pikachu VMAX Rainbow Rare – Sword & Shield: Vivid Voltage #188/185
The Pikachu VMAX Rainbow Rare features Pikachu in a dynamic VMAX form with a vibrant rainbow holographic background. As a part of the Vivid Voltage set, this card captures Pikachu’s powerful Gigantamax form.
Why It's Special
The card’s rarity and desirability are reflected in its auction value, with one example selling for $5,300. Its combination of visual appeal, high playability, and limited availability make it a standout in the realm of recent Pokémon cards.
FAQs
What is the rarest Pikachu?
The rarest is the “Sample” Pikachu – 2002 e-Reader Sample Set, with only 20 copies. But it's a special sample set release. In terms of actual releases, the Pikachu Illustrator card, with only 39 copies, is also rare. It was released in 1998 as a Corocoro magazine promo.
How do I know if my Pikachu card is rare?
To know if your card is rare, check for unique features like limited print runs, errors, or special editions. Grading and market prices can also indicate rarity.
How rare is a Charizard?
Charizard cards, especially 1st Edition and holographic versions are extremely rare and highly sought after, often commanding high prices.
Which Pokemon is worth $1,000,000?
The Pokemon worth $1,000,000 is the 1998 Pikachu Illustrator card Grade 9.
Is golden Pikachu rare?
Yes, golden cards, like the Pikachu Gold Card, are rare due to their limited releases and special designs.
Let’s Play!
Hunting for rare cards offers a thrilling journey through Pokémon history [4], with each card bringing its own unique value and story.
From the elusive Pikachu Illustrator to the dazzling VMAX Rainbow Rare, these cards are not just collectibles but also cherished pieces from the Pokemon company.
Explore the extensive Toynk Pokémon merchandise to find the perfect addition to your collection. Start your adventure today!
References:
- https://www.statista.com/topics/12111/pokemon-trading-card-game/#topicOverview
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Pokemon-electronic-game
- https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/07/08/pokemon-summer-training-tour-kicks-off
- https://www.livemint.com/Sundayapp/Z7zHxltyWtFNzcoXPZAbjI/A-brief-history-of-Pokmon.html
