Top 15 Most Expensive Pokemon Cards Of All Time

Delve into the captivating realm of high-value collectables and explore the world's most expensive Pokemon cards. From the exhilarating world of sports to the enchanting universe of Pokémon, witness the extraordinary prices these coveted cards have fetched at prestigious auctions. Let's start the journey with Japan Figure!

Top 15 Most Expensive Pokémon Cards

1998 Pikachu Illustrator

• Grade: PSA 10 (Gem Mint)
• Month Sold: March 2022
• Venue: Private Sale
• Price: $5,275,000

The 1998 Pikachu Illustrator stands as the undisputed pinnacle of Pokémon card collecting. A true relic from the franchise's early days, this card was awarded as a prize to winners of a prestigious drawing contest held by CoroCoro Comics in Japan in 1998.

Its ethereal allure stems from its extraordinary rarity. Only a handful of these cards were ever produced, making it one of the most elusive and coveted collectibles in the world. Its unique illustration, featuring a dynamic pose of Pikachu wielding a magical paintbrush, further enhances its mystique.

The Pikachu Illustrator's historical significance and scarcity have propelled its value to astronomical heights, making it one of the most expensive Pokemon cards. 

It's not merely a card; it's a symbol of Pokémon's cultural impact and a testament to the passion of collectors worldwide. As long as the Pokémon franchise continues to captivate hearts, the Pikachu Illustrator will remain the ultimate treasure for enthusiasts and investors alike.

1999 Pokémon Base Set Shadowless 1st Edition Holo Charizard

• Grade: PSA 7 NM-MT
• Month Sold: October 2024
• Venue: Fanatics Collect
• Price: $9,500

The 1999 Pokémon Base Set Shadowless 1st Edition Holo Charizard stands as a true icon in the world of Pokémon trading cards. 

Its captivating holographic design, featuring a fiery Charizard soaring against a backdrop of vibrant colours, has mesmerized collectors for decades. This card's rarity, stemming from its limited print run and unique "shadowless" characteristic, has propelled it to legendary status.

A PSA 10-graded card, the highest accolade for card condition, represents the pinnacle of quality and desirability. 

However, it's important to remember that prices for this card can fluctuate based on market demand, economic trends, and the specific condition of the card. 

As a result, a PSA 10-graded Shadowless Charizard can command a substantial premium price, often reaching six-figure sums in auctions and private sales.

1998 Pokémon Commission Presentation Galaxy Star Holo Blastoise

• Grade: CGC NM-MT 8
• Month Sold: January 2023
• Venue: Heritage Auctions
• Price: $360,000

The 1998 Pokémon Commission Presentation Galaxy Star Holo Blastoise stands as a testament to the early days of the Pokémon trading card game. This extraordinary card, a relic from a bygone era, was meticulously crafted by Wizards of the Coast as a captivating sample. 

Its purpose? To mesmerize Nintendo with the boundless potential of Pokémon trading cards, a vision that would soon captivate the world.

Due to its incredibly limited production and its pivotal role in shaping the future of Pokémon, the 1998 Commission Presentation Galaxy Star Holo Blastoise has earned its place as one of the most coveted and valuable Pokémon cards ever created. 

Its allure lies not only in its stunning holographic design but also in its historical significance, making it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

2017 Black Star Ishihara Signed GX Promo Card

• Grade: GEM MT 10   
• Month Sold: April 2020
• Venue: Goldin Auctions   
• Price: $100,000

The 2017 Black Star Ishihara Signed GX Promo Card is a testament to the intersection of Pokémon fandom and historical significance.

This extraordinary card, bestowed upon a select few attendees of Tsunekazu Ishihara's 60th birthday celebration at the 2018 Pokémon World Championships in Nashville, Tennessee, is a relic of a momentous occasion.

Its rarity is unparalleled. Distributed to a limited number of individuals, this card has become a coveted treasure among collectors. The signature of Tsunekazu Ishihara, the visionary behind the Pokémon franchise, further elevates its prestige. 

This unique combination of scarcity, historical significance, and the renowned signature has propelled the card to astronomical heights in the auction market.

Considered one of the most expensive Pokemon cards ever to exist, the 2017 Black Star Ishihara Signed GX Promo Card is a symbol of the enduring appeal and cultural impact of the Pokémon universe.

1998 Kangaskhan-Holo #115 Family Event Trophy

• Grade: GEM-MT 10
• Month Sold: May 1998
• Venue: Lizardon Mega Battle (Japan)
• Price: N/A (trophy card, not sold)

The 1998 Kangaskhan-Holo #115 Family Event Trophy is a highly sought-after Pokémon card due to its extreme rarity and historical significance. Awarded as a prize to winners of the first official Kangaskhan Parent-Child Tournament in May 1998, this card is a testament to its unique origins. 

Its holographic design featuring the beloved Kangaskhan, known for its maternal instincts, adds to its allure. The limited production and exclusive distribution as a tournament prize have made it a highly coveted item among collectors. 

Recent auctions have seen this card fetch six-figure sums, further solidifying its position as one of the most valuable Pokémon cards in existence. For any serious Pokémon collector, the 1998 Kangaskhan-Holo #115 Family Event Trophy is an indispensable addition to their collection.

2000 Pokémon Neo Genesis 1st Edition Holo Lugia

• Grade: GEM-MT 10 (PSA 10)
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $55,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards)

The 2000 Pokémon Neo Genesis 1st Edition Holo Lugia stands as a true gem in the world of Pokémon card collecting. Its striking holographic design, showcasing Lugia's majestic form in all its glory, has captivated fans for decades.

This iconic card, a cornerstone of the legendary Neo Genesis set, is highly sought-after due to its rarity and the nostalgia it evokes.

The holographic effect, a marvel of early card technology, adds depth and dimension to Lugia's image, making it a visually stunning piece of collectable art. 

As one of the most coveted cards in the Pokémon TCG, the 2000 Neo Genesis 1st Edition Holo Lugia consistently commands significant value. While the exact price can fluctuate based on factors like condition, grading, and market demand, it remains a top-tier investment for serious collectors.

1998 Trophy Pikachu Gold

• Grade: PSA 10
• Month Sold: Varies (occasional sales at auctions)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (Goldin Auctions, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $1,000,000+ (depending on condition and market demand)

The 1998 Trophy Pikachu Gold is a highly coveted Pokémon card, renowned for its rarity, historical significance, and artistic appeal.

Awarded to the victors of the 1997-98 Lizardon Mega Battle Pokémon tournament in Japan, this promo card showcases Pikachu proudly holding a trophy against a striking gold foil background.

With only a handful believed to exist, the card's extreme rarity makes it one of the most valuable and sought-after Pokémon cards ever created. Its historical significance as a reward for top-tier tournament performance further elevates its status among collectors.

The stunning artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita adds to its allure, capturing Pikachu's iconic charm in exquisite detail.

Due to its rarity, historical significance, and artistic value, the 1998 Trophy Pikachu Gold commands high prices on the secondary market.

While specific details like grade, month sold, venue, and exact price can vary based on individual card condition, it remains an undeniable treasure for any serious Pokémon collector.

1999 Super Secret Battle No. 1 Trainer

• Grade: PSA 10 Gem Mint
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $90,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards)

The 1999 Super Secret Battle No. 1 Trainer is an exceptionally rare Pokémon card, exclusively awarded to the victor of the 1999 Japanese National Championships. 

Often regarded as one of the most expensive Pokemon cards, its limited production and prestigious origin make it a highly sought-after item among collectors. 

The card's value can fluctuate based on its condition, with pristine examples commanding significant premiums. Due to its rarity and historical significance, the 1999 Super Secret Battle No. 1 Trainer is considered a valuable asset for any dedicated Pokémon collector.

1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Tamamushi University Prize Magikarp

• Grade: GEM-MT 10 (PSA 10)
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $65,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards)

The 1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Tamamushi University Prize Magikarp is a legendary relic in the world of Pokémon card collecting. 

This elusive card was bestowed upon a select group of students who aced a specialized Pokémon exam, a rigorous test of Pokémon knowledge administered by Shogakukan, a prominent Japanese publishing house.

The 1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Tamamushi University Prize Magikarp is a legendary relic among Pokémon card collectors.

Its scarcity is unparalleled. The limited distribution, coupled with its unique provenance as a reward for academic excellence, has solidified its position as one of the rarest and most valuable Pokémon cards ever produced. This extraordinary card is a testament to the enduring allure of Pokémon and the passion of its dedicated collectors.

2005 Umbreon Gold Star Holo

• Grade: PSA 10 (Gem Mint)
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $180,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards

The 2005 Umbreon Gold Star Holo, a mesmerizing gem from the Japanese Play Promo series, captivates collectors with its ethereal beauty. Its holographic design, shimmering with iridescent hues, showcases Umbreon's sleek silhouette and enigmatic expression. 

The elusive Gold Star rarity elevates this card to legendary status, making it one of the most coveted treasures in the Pokémon trading card game.

Please note that the value of this card can fluctuate based on market demand and its condition. A PSA 10-graded card, the highest possible grade, commands a premium price due to its pristine condition and exceptional rarity. 

1999 Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind Trophy Card

• Grade: Varies (Typically PSA 8-10)
• Month Sold: Varies (Frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $10,000+ (PSA 10 graded cards can fetch significantly higher prices)

The 1999 Tropical Mega Battle Tropical Wind Trophy Card is a highly sought-after Pokémon card among collectors due to its extreme rarity and historical significance, often considered one of the most expensive Pokemon cards. 

This promotional card was awarded to participants of the 1999 Tropical Mega Battle tournament held in Hawaii, making it a coveted item for Pokémon enthusiasts. 

The card's unique artwork, featuring a tropical island adorned with Pokémon and trainers, further adds to its appeal. 

While the specific details such as grade, month sold, venue, and price can vary depending on the individual card's condition, it's generally acknowledged that high-grade versions of this card can fetch substantial sums at auctions. 

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting recent auction results or seeking advice from a Pokémon card appraiser is recommended.

1999 Japanese 64 Mario Stadium Best Photo Contest Chansey

• Grade: BGS 8.5

• Month Sold: November 2022

• Venue: PWCC Auctions

• Price: $63,000

The 2005 Umbreon Gold Star Holo, a coveted gem from the Japanese Play Promo series, captivates collectors with its mesmerizing holographic design.

The elusive Gold Star rarity elevates this card to extraordinary heights, making it one of the most sought-after Pokémon cards in existence.

Its striking artwork, featuring Umbreon's sleek silhouette and piercing yellow eyes, is further enhanced by the holographic effect, creating a truly dazzling visual experience. The card's limited release and high demand have contributed to its substantial value on the secondary market.

A PSA 10-graded card, the highest possible grade, is considered the pinnacle of condition and can fetch astronomical prices. However, it's important to note that prices can fluctuate based on market trends and the overall condition of the card.

2006 EX Dragon Frontiers Gold Star Charizard

• Grade: GEM-MT 10 (PSA 10)
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $17,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards)

The 2006 EX Dragon Frontiers Gold Star Charizard is a true gem in the world of Pokémon trading cards.

Its mesmerizing holographic design, featuring a majestic Charizard soaring through a fiery sky, has captivated collectors and fans alike. This card's inclusion in the iconic Dragon Frontiers set further adds to its allure.

The 2006 Gold Star Charizard's value is highly volatile, influenced by market demand, economic conditions, and card conditions.

When it comes to pricing, the 2006 Gold Star Charizard is a highly volatile commodity. Its value can fluctuate significantly based on market demand, economic conditions, and the card's condition. 

A PSA 10-graded card, the highest possible grade, is considered the pinnacle of perfection and typically commands a premium price. However, even lower-graded cards can still fetch substantial sums, especially if they possess unique qualities or historical significance.

2000 Pokémon Topps Chrome Series 1 Tekno Charizard

• Grade: GEM-MT 10 (PSA 10)
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $60,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards)

The 2000 Pokémon Topps Chrome Series 1 Tekno Charizard is a coveted gem in the world of Pokémon card collecting. Its allure lies in its mesmerizing chrome finish, which captures the fiery essence of the legendary Charizard. 

This iconic Pokémon, with its imposing stature and fiery breath, has captivated fans since its debut, and this particular card showcases it in all its glory. The card's vibrant colours, intricate details, and dazzling chrome effect make it a visually stunning piece that any collector would be proud to own.

2003 Victory Orb Mew Trophy

• Grade: GEM-MT 10 (PSA 10)
• Month Sold: Varies (frequent sales on various platforms)
• Venue: Online auction platforms (eBay, PWCC, etc.)
• Price: $10,000+ (average for PSA 10 graded cards)

The 2003 Victory Orb Mew Trophy is an incredibly rare Pokémon card, and often considered one of the most expensive Pokemon cards, awarded exclusively to top-ranking competitors in Japan's 2003 Battle Road Summer tournament series. Its unique illustration depicts Mew, a legendary Pokémon, clutching the powerful Victory Orb. 

This card's rarity stems from its limited distribution, making it a highly sought-after item among collectors and investors. While specific details like grade, month sold, venue, and price can fluctuate based on the card's condition and market trends, the 2003 Victory Orb Mew Trophy remains a valuable asset for any Pokémon enthusiast.

The 2003 Victory Orb Mew Trophy, a rare Pokémon card awarded to the top 2003 Battle Road Summer tournament winners, is often considered one of the most expensive.

Key Factors Influencing Pokémon Card Prices

Condition and Grading

The condition of a trading card plays a crucial role in determining its value. This includes any signs of wear, tear, or damage; cards that are in pristine condition—meaning they have no scratches, bends, or fading—are generally more valuable. 

To help assess a card's condition, professional grading services like PSA and Beckett evaluate the cards and assign them a grade on a scale. A higher grade typically indicates better condition and can lead to a higher price in the market.

Rarity and Scarcity

Rarity and scarcity are important factors that influence the value of trading cards. Rarity refers to cards that have lower print runs or are part of exclusive releases, making them more valuable. For example, rare cards like holographic versions or those featuring unique artwork are often highly sought after by collectors. 

Scarcity, on the other hand, occurs when a card is difficult to find due to reasons such as production errors or special release events. This limited availability can significantly increase a card's price in the marketplace.

Popularity and Demand

The popularity of a specific Pokémon or card set can greatly affect the demand and value of its cards. Iconic Pokémon like Charizard, Pikachu, and Mewtwo often have cards that are priced higher due to their fame. 

Additionally, strong demand from collectors, investors, and players can drive up prices, particularly for rare and highly sought-after cards.

As we've journeyed through the realm of the most expensive Pokemon cards, it's evident that trading cards, once humble pieces of cardboard, have evolved into extraordinary investments. Japan Figure's curated list of the most expensive trading cards showcases the incredible value and cultural significance these items hold. As the world of collectibles continues to thrive, it's fascinating to witness the ever-increasing prices and global fascination surrounding these unique pieces of history.