The rise of Pokemon cards recently has been tremendous, not only in popularity but also in monetary value. One of the main reasons behind that is that people have a unique connection with these cards and are also considered a lucrative investment.
However, keep in mind that not every Pokemon card is worthy. There are only a few cards that are considered true collectibles and have intrinsic value. In the last few years, many Pokemon cards were sold for thousands of dollars, and some even touched the mark of millions.
If you are also interested in Pokemon cards, keep reading this article. Here, you will know everything about the 20 most expensive Pokemon card till now.
Top 20 Most Expensive Pokemon Card
Table of Contents
1.Illustrator CoroCoro Comics Promo
Image Source – kjcesports.com
Illustration Pokemon card is considered the most valuable and rarest card ever. The valuation of the Pokemon card at auction was around $6 million.
It is also worth mentioning that Pikachu Illustrator is the only card that received a 10/10 grade PSA. In July 2021, the card was sold at $5.275 million to the YouTube influencer – Logan Paul. Logan paid $4 million in cash and traded a PSA 9 Pikachu Illustrator card, which was worth around $1.275 million.
The card was designed by artist Atsuko Nishida, also an original designer of Pikachu. It displays Pikachu holding painting brushes in his hands. Currently, there are only 39 Pikachu illustration cards in circulation.
Other Information:-
- Release Date:1998
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $6,000,000
2. Charizard 1st Edition Shadowless Base Set
Image Source – etsy.com
Charizard 1st edition shadowless base set is another one of the rarest Pokemon cards. In 1999, the first edition of the Holographic Charizard was released, and till now, it is considered one of the most iconic non-sports cards and the “holy grail” of the entire Pokemon trading game.
There were a total of 102 cards of the first edition released, and 16 of them were considered holographic cards, making them extremely rare.
In 2022, in the PWCC March Premier Auction, the Charizard 1st Edition Shadowless Base Set was sold at the price of $420,000 – breaking its previous records in which it was sold at $336,000. One of the main things that made this Pokemon card unique was its excellent PSA 10 Gem Minting Grading.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $420,000
3. Blastoise Wizards of the Coast Presentation Galaxy Star Holo
Image Source – nypost.com
Blastoise Wizards of the Coast Presentation Galaxy Star holo card was sold at the price of $360,000. It has some high value and eye-catching designs, attracting numerous investors.
This pokemon card was released in 1998 and only two of them were printed, making them extremely rare and valuable. The main agenda behind creating these cards was to see how an english pokemon card should look like. Currently, there’s only one card available, the location of the second one is unknown.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1998
- Grading: CGC 8.5
- Pokemon card value at auction: $360,000
4. Trophy Pikachu No. 3 Trainer Bronze
Image Source – gonintendo.com
Trophy Pikachu No. 3 Trainer Bronze was released in 1997, this trophy card was officially given to the finalists of the first Pokemon card Tournament, which was held in Japan.
In April 2023, the card was sold in an Auction for $300,000. More than 50 bids took place in the auction, and the card was given to the one willing to spend the most money on this rare card.
It is also worth mentioning that Trophy Pikachu No. 3 Trainer Bronze is one of the PSA-certified copies of the card and received eight on the ten-point scale. Another quality which makes this trophy card unique is its appearance, which consists of a cute, chubby Pikachu. Experts state that the card will continue to rise in price due to its rarity and uniqueness.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1997
- Grading: PSA 8
- Pokemon card value at auction: $300,000
5. Ishihara GX Promo
Image Source – gamingdeputy.com
Ishihara GX Promo card with the artwork of Tsunekazu Ishihara, CEO and the president of the Pokemon Company. The card has received seven grades by PSA, which is a decent rating. First, these cards were distributed among the Pokemon Company employees on the CEO’s birthday. In 2021, the card was sold for $247,230 at an auction.
The price is insane because last time, the card was sold at $50,000, which didn’t have the signature of the CEO. So, it can be said that Tsunekazu Ishihara is one reason this card is highly valuable.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2017
- Grading: PSA 7
- Pokemon card value at auction: $247,230
6. Kangaskhan Family Event Trophy
Image Source – fresherslive.com
Another trophy card on the list is considered one of the rarest and most expensive cards, sold at $175,000 in a recent auction. A $25,000 surge in the price since it was sold in a previous auction held in 2020.
In 1998, the Kangaskhan Family Event Trophy card was officially awarded at a Parent/Child Mega Tournament, in which parents and children tend to compete together.
The card has Kangaskhan and its baby on it, giving the overall card a fantastic appearance. The card also contains the original Japanese Pocket Monster Card Game logo and rare holographic Pokemon, making it rare and valuable.
Other Information:-
- Release Date:1988
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $150,000
7. Lugia 1st Edition Neo Genesis
Image Source – charlieintel
The Lugia 1st Edition Neo Genesis Pokemon card was released in 2000. The Lugia is considered one of the unique and legendary Pokemon characters, which is loved by many children. Many card collectors always desired the possession of this Pokemon card, which caused an increase in its overall value.
In 2021, the Lugia 1st Edition Neo Genesis Pokemon card was sold at $144,300 in a PWCC auction. An increase of $15,300 since it was sold last time at an auction in 2020.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2000
- Grading: BGS Pristine 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $144,300
8. Pokemon World Championships Promo No. 2 Trainer
Image Source – comics.ha.com
Pokemon World Champions Promo No. 2 Trainer card is primarily known for its rarity. According to the sources, till now, there are only three of these Pokemon cards in existence. The card displays Pikachu holding a trophy, giving a very attractive look.
In 2006, the card was given to the finalists of a tournament, Pokemon World Championship, which was held in California. Due to its high rarity, this Pokemon card was sold at the price of $110,000 at an auction in February 2021.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2006
- Grading: PSA 9
- Pokemon card value at auction: $110,000
9. No. 1 Trainer Super Secret Battle
Image Source – h-o-m-e.org
Another one of the rarest cards in the pokemon industry. This Pokemon card was sold for $90,000 at the auction. Many sources also say that the card is expected to sell for more than $100,000 in the incoming auction.
No. 1 Trainer Super Secret Battle Pokemon card was released in 1999 and given to the competitors of the Secret Super Battle Tournament finals.
Other Information:-
- Release Date:1999
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $90,000
10. Umbreon Gold Star Holo
Image Source – reddit.com
Umbreon Gold Star Holo rapidly grew in popularity, and many buyers desired the ownership of the card. There are very few Pokemon cards that have gone on sale, which reduced its preciousness previously.
However, the tables turned when, in June 2021, an Umbreon Gold Star Holo was sold at the price of $70,000 in an auction. This Pokemon card has also received the BGS grace of 9.5, making it one of the unique and rarest Pokemon cards.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2005
- Grading: BSG 9.5
- Pokemon card value at auction: $70,000
11. Tamamushi University Magikarp Trophy Promo
Image Source – retrododo.com
Tamamushi University Magikarp Trophy Promo is another Pokemon card with the PSA Gem Mint 10 grading.
There’s also an interesting story behind this Pokemon card. In 1998, a contest was hosted by Shogakukan Magazines. The students who passed the contests were sent to a special TCG tournament, and some of them were awarded with the Pokemon card.
In 2021, the Tamamushi University Magikarp Trophy Promo card was sold at the price of $66,100 in an auction – putting it straight in the list of most expensive Pokemon card.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1998
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $66,100
12. Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind Promo
Image Source – youtube.com
Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind Promo Pokemon card was officially released in 1999 and handed over to the winner of the Tropical Mega Tournament as a prize. After 21 years, the Pokemon card was sold at $65,100 in a PWCC auction.
The card is not considered flashy or attractive but is the ultimate card for Psyduck fans. The card consists of a picture of a Psyduck chilling on a beach while playing the ukulele, along with the Jigglypuff.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $65,100
13. Summer Battle Road Mew Victory Orb Trophy
Image Source – blog.buyee.com
This Pokemon card is a tournament trophy given in 1998 during the Summer Battle Road Competition. It is essential to know that only three players in the competition were awarded the Summer Battle Road Mew Victory Orb Trophy card. The card was valued at $60,000 at an auction in December 2020.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $60,000
14. Venusaur No Rarity Symbol Base Set
Image Source – mavin.io
This Pokemon was released in 1996 and sold at $55,000 in a PWCC auction. One of the main reasons why this card is so valuable is because it holds the card of the original artist of the card, named Mitsuhiro Arita.
The Pokemon on the card holds the picture of Venusaur, considered one of the first Pokemon that came into existence.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1996
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $55.000
15. Tropical Mega Battle No. 2 Trainer
Image Source – elitefourum.com
In October 2020, Tropical Mega Battle No. 2 Trainer card was sold at $50,300 in an auction. The only reason behind such a high price of the Pokemon card is its rarity, as it doesn’t hold any other attractive quality.
The card is damaged, low-quality, and hasn’t received a grade. But still, the scarcity of this card makes it highly valuable, and experts state that the card’s price is likely to grow in the future.
This Pokemon card was originally released in 1999 and was given to only top players of the Mega Battle Tournament held in Japan. Sources say that only five cards exist till now, making them one of the rarest Pokemon cards ever.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA Authentic
- Pokemon card value at auction: $50,300
16. Rayquaza Gold Star Holo Ex Deoxys
Image Source – miami.asa.edu
In December 2020, Rayquaza Gold Star Holo Deoxys Pokemon card was sold for $45,100. This Pokemon card is produced in a very limited quantity – making them rare and valuable.
The card was officially released in 2005. Since then, it has gained immense popularity and increased in overvalue. Experts state that the card’s uniqueness and rarity will cause the prices to surge within the next few years.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2005
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $45,100
17. Blastoise 1st Edition Shadowless Base Set
Image Source – ebay.com
The Blastoise 1st Edition Shadowless Base Set card was officially released in 1999. This Pokemon card has recently seen a surge in popularity.
The card holds the picture of the Blastoise, which is many people’s favourite Pokemon. That is probably one of the main reasons why collectors are willing to pay tens of thousands of dollars. In November 2020, when the card appeared in the PWCC auction, it was sold at the price of $45,100.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $45,100
18. Chansey #3 1st Edition Shadowless Base Set
Image Source – ebay.com
The official release of the Pokemon card took place in 1999, which connected with various nostalgia players. The card also contains numerous legendary artworks of the TCG, increasing its worthiness. The card’s appearance is also very adorable – displaying Chansey standing calmly.
Recently, the fans are going wild for the card, and the collectors are willing to pay higher prices to acquire the Chansey #3 1st Edition Shadowless Base Set. In the November 2020 auction, this Pokemon card was sold for $36,877. A significant increase of $16,877 in the price just within a year.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 1999
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
Pokemon card value at auction: $36,877
19. Daisuki Club Holo Masters Scroll Promo
Image Source – etsy.com
Daisuki Club Holo Masters Scroll Promo was released in 2010. In the same year, the Daisaku Club organized an event based on collecting points and redeeming rewards.
Daisaku Club Holo Masters Scroll Promo card was also one of the rewards, but it was not easy to avail it because the participants were required to redeem 8,600 points to win this Pokemon card, which is an extremely hard task.
Due to the uniqueness of this Pokemon card, the fans went crazy to obtain it when it came up in the PWCC auction. The Daisuki Club Holo Masters Scroll Promo was sold at $35,200 and became one of the most expensive Pokemon cards.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2010
- Grading: PSA Gem Mint 10
- Pokemon card value at auction: $35,200
20. Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy
Image Source – twitter.com
This is another one of the most expensive trophy cards, valued at $34,100 in an auction.
The Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy card was officially released in 2002 and was given to Fukunishi Tomoki, who was the winner of the Kanto Summer Battle Road Tournament. The winner’s name and region are also printed on the card, making it more unique and increasing its market value.
There are only a few Neo Summer Battle Road Number 2 Trainer Trophy cards in circulation, as they were given to only a few winners. The look of the card is also pretty attractive, which includes Ash Ketchum standing in the middle flexing his medal while other Pikachus praise him.
Other Information:-
- Release Date: 2002
- Grading: BGS 7.5
- Pokemon card value at auction: $34,100
Conclusion
So, that was the list of some of the most expensive Pokemon card in the world right now. It seems interesting to know how many people have a strong interest in Pokemon cards and are willing to pay an immense amount of money to acquire them. Most collectors see these Pokemon cards as a great investment as it is expected to see a significant rise in the price of these cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the most expensive card in Pokemon?
Population 1 PSA 10 Illustrator Pikachu is considered the most expensive card in Pokemon. According to the sources, the card was bought by a famous YouTube influencer, Logan Paul, at the cost of $5.275 million in 2022.
Q2. What Pokemon card costs $1,000,000?
Illustrator CoroCoro Comics Promo has been the only Pokemon card sold for millions. In 2022, the card was sold for $900,000 – almost a million. Then, it was acquired by a famous YouTuber for more than $5 million and broke all the previous records.
Q3. What is the most expensive Pokemon card in 2023?
In 2023, many Pokemon cards were sold at a very high cost. But, Lono (special illustration rare) is considered the most expensive card in 2023.
Q4. Why is Iono so expensive?
The Japanese version of the Lono (special illustration rare) has been sold for thousands of dollars. One of the main reasons it is so expensive is that it features a well-known female character and her plushie collection.
