Alternate art Pokémon cards: Top 10+ best picks for collectors

The alternate art Pokémon cards are among the most eye-catching, highly sought-after treasures in a collector’s stash. At Japan Figure, we know the thrill of spotting that perfect alt art Pokémon card, one that stands out with breathtaking design and rarity. If you’re into Japanese culture and exquisite collectibles, diving into the alternate art Pokémon cards is a journey you won’t want to miss.

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1. What is an alternate art Pokémon card?

Alternate art Pokémon cards, often branded as “alt art pokemon cards” or “pokemon alternate art cards,” offer a fresh design twist compared to their standard versions. These cards typically feature unique illustrations, full-cover artwork, or extended art that differs from the usual layout, instantly grabbing attention. Collectors love them not only for their artistic flair but also for their rarity, many alt art cards come in limited runs or special promotional sets.

Collectors chase them because they’re visually stunning, often embody superior artistic expression, and typically command higher market value. They’re perfect for display and make great conversation pieces among other Pokémon and Japanese-culture enthusiasts.

Here’s a quick comparison to help distinguish alt art from other special styles:

This table clarifies how alternate art Pokémon cards fit into the bigger collectible scene; they’re often partitions of full art and secret art styles, standing out for their special design and exclusivity.

2. Top 10+ popular alt art Pokémon cards worth a place in your collection

Here are over ten standout “best alt art pokemon cards” that deserve your attention. Each offers unique artistry and collectible appeal. Get ready to explore our curated list of best alternate art Pokémon cards, each with its own story, rarity, and market value. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning, these alt art gems highlight artistic mastery and potential investment value.

1. Dedenne GX - 195a/214
2. M Lucario EX - 55a/111
3. Shaymin EX - 77a/108
4. Togepi & Cleffa & Igglybuff GX - 143a/236
5. Rayquaza GX - 177a/168
6. N (Supporter) - 105a/124
7. Zygarde EX - 54a/124
8. Hex Maniac - 75a/98
9. Yveltal EX - XY150a
10. Jirachi - XY67a

2.1 Dedenne GX – 195a/214

Dedenne GX catches your eye with its bright, cute, and vibrant illustration, showing off the electric mouse Pokémon in a dynamic pose atop colorful patterns. Its charm comes not just from the art but also from its rarity in the promo-type alternate art series.

• Card number: 195a/214
• Release year: 2019
• Rarity: Promo alternate art GX
• Market price range: moderate, often $30–$50 depending on condition

2.2 M Lucario EX – 55a/111

This alt art M Lucario EX stands out with dramatic shading and a fierce stance, spotlighting Lucario’s power and aura. Collectors appreciate the full-cover illustration that conveys intensity and dynamic movement.

• Card number: 55a/111
• Release year: 2016
• Rarity: Alternate art EX promo
• Market price range: generally $40–$70 for near-mint copies

2.3 Shaymin EX – 77a/108

Shaymin EX features serene yet vibrant artwork, capturing the sky-duck Pokémon in lush greenery and vivid colors. Its dreamy and calming design makes it a favorite among collectors who value both aesthetics and rarity.

• Card number: 77a/108
• Release year: 2014
• Rarity: Alternate art EX promo
• Market price range: about $50–$80

2.4 Togepi & Cleffa & Igglybuff GX – 143a/236

This trio alt art card charms with its trio of baby Pokémon in adorable harmony, Togepi, Cleffa, and Igglybuff are playing together in a full-art scene. Fans love the nostalgia and the cute factor.

• Card number: 143a/236
• Release year: 2019
• Rarity: GX alternate art promo
• Market price range: $60–$100

2.5 Rayquaza GX – 177a/168

Rayquaza GX’s alt art slithers through cosmic brushstrokes, showcasing the legendary serpent in a glowing, powerful composition. It’s bold, dramatic, and an undeniably striking piece.

• Card number: 177a/168
• Release year: 2018
• Rarity: Alternate art GX promo
• Market price range: $70–$120

2.6 N (Supporter) – 105a/124

The alt art N card features an introspective portrait of the beloved supporter character N, set against a soft, evocative background. It’s minimalistic yet emotional, making it memorable.

• Card number: 105a/124
• Release year: 2015
• Rarity: Alternate art supporter promo
• Market price range: $25–$45

2.7 Zygarde EX – 54a/124

Zygarde EX’s alt art captures the mysterious, polygonal form of Zygarde in vivid green tones, with a cosmic backdrop that heightens its legendary aura. It’s both sci-fi and elegant.

• Card number: 54a/124
• Release year: 2015
• Rarity: Alternate art EX promo
• Market price range: $45–$70

2.8 Hex Maniac – 75a/98

Hex Maniac’s alt art leans into a gothic aesthetic, with haunting visuals and expressive design, perfect for fans of darker stylistic flair. Its haunting presence makes it a collector favorite.

• Card number: 75a/98
• Release year: 2014
• Rarity: Alternate art trainer promo
• Market price range: $20–$35

2.9 Yveltal EX – XY150a

This alt art Yveltal EX showcases the legendary bird in dramatic darkness and reds, wings outstretched in a powerful, imposing pose. It’s a striking and fierce collectible.

• Card number: XY150a
• Release year: 2014
• Rarity: Alternate art EX promo
• Market price range: $60–$90

2.10 Jirachi – XY67a

Jirachi’s alt art is serene and whimsical, capturing the wish-granting Pokémon in dreamy pastel skies with gentle sparkles. It’s subtly beautiful and stands out for its whimsy.

• Card number: XY67a
• Release year: 2014
• Rarity: Alternate art promo
• Market price range: $30–$50

3. How do you know what card is an "alt art"?

Identifying alt art pokemon cards involves a few key signs. First, check the card numbering, alternate art promos often include a lowercase “a” after the set number, like “77a/108” or “XY67a.” That “a” signals an alternate art version distinct from the standard release. Second, examine the artwork itself, if it spans the entire card or offers a variant illustration from the typical version, it’s a strong indicator of an alt art. Finally, checking the promo or set release info, alt art cards are often issued as promotional exclusives or special collections.

Second, for reliability, refer to trusted resources such as official Pokémon TCG databases, community-run card indexing websites, and reputable online marketplaces like Japan Figure. These sources list card variants clearly and offer visual references to compare.

4. FAQs - People also ask about alternative art Pokemon cards

Here’s a short overview followed by concise answers to frequently asked questions.

4.1 What are alternate art Pokemon cards?

Alternate art Pokemon cards are special versions of existing cards featuring unique illustrations or full-cover designs, often marked with the letter “a” in their numbering. Produced as promos or limited prints, they’re prized for their artistic variation and collectible rarity.

4.2 How much is 151 Charizard EX worth?

The 151 Charizard EX, although not officially an alt art, is highly valuable due to its nostalgic status and limited print. Prices vary widely, near-mint copies can command hundreds, sometimes over $300, depending on edition and condition.

4.3 What is the most valuable alternate art Pokemon card?

While values shift over time, historically, promo alt art cards like certain Illustrator cards or secret alt arts of Pikachu or Charizard have fetched high prices. The most valuable tends to change, serious collectors rely on current auction results and verifiable sale data.

4.4 How rare are alt arts?

Alt art cards are generally rarer than standard prints. They’re often produced in smaller quantities through promotional runs or special events, making them more limited in supply and more desirable among collectors.

4.5 Are alternate art cards legal to play?

Yes, alternate art cards are fully legal in official Pokémon TCG gameplay as long as they’re from sanctioned sets or promotional releases. Always check for official set identifiers and symbol to ensure tournament legality.

Alternate art Pokémon cards offer more than just eye-catching visuals, they embody rarity, artistic expression, and collectibility. At Japan Figure, we’re passionate about bringing you the finest alt art pokemon cards, from iconic legends like Rayquaza GX and Shaymin EX to beloved favorites like Hex Maniac or Jirachi. These cards elevate a collection, whether displayed proudly or held as long-term investments.

Discover your next treasure with the best alternate art pokemon cards and let Japan Figure be your guide to building a visually stunning, culturally rich collection. Browse our offers now and start your journey with a masterpiece in hand.