Unearthing the 5 Rarest & Most Valuable Pokémon Cards from 1995!

October 16, 2023 lasttimeago pokémon

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In the vast realm of Pokémon collectibles, the cards that hold the most allure are often those that harken back to the franchise’s early days when they first came out.

Today, we embark on a journey to explore the five rarest Pokémon cards from the year 1995, tracing their captivating history, astonishing sales, jaw-dropping prices, and the limited quantities that make them a cherished gem among collectors.

1. Pikachu Illustrator

History: The Pikachu Illustrator card, released in 1995, holds the distinction of being the rarest Pokémon card of all time. It was crafted as a promotional card for an illustration contest in Japan, with only 39 copies ever produced.

Each card features a unique illustration by Atsuko Nishida, the original illustrator of Pikachu.

Sale & Price: Due to its extreme rarity and status, the Pikachu Illustrator card commands astronomical prices. In 2016, a near-mint copy of this card was sold for an astonishing $54,970, and in 2021, a record-breaking sale saw it change hands for a staggering $233,000.

2. Holographic Shadowless First Edition Charizard

History: The Holographic Shadowless First Edition Charizard, part of the original Pokémon Base Set, is a legendary card that has captivated collectors for decades. In 1995, during the initial printing of the Base Set, a small batch of Charizard cards lacked the shadow beneath the illustration, creating the Shadowless variation.

Sale & Price: The Holographic Shadowless First Edition Charizard is highly sought after, and its value has soared over the years. In 2020, a pristine gem mint PSA 10-graded copy of this card sold for a staggering $350,100, solidifying its place as one of the most valuable Pokémon cards ever.

3. Japanese Topsun Blue Back Pikachu

History: The Japanese Topsun Blue Back Pikachu card holds a special place in Pokémon lore as one of the earliest Pokémon cards ever released.

Produced exclusively in Japan, this card features a distinctive blue back and was included in the 1995 Pokémon Topsun set, which served as a precursor to the official TCG.

Sale & Price: Due to its rarity and historical significance, the Japanese Topsun Blue Back Pikachu has gained considerable value. A PSA 10-graded copy of this card fetched an impressive $6,000 in a recent sale, highlighting its desirability among collectors.

4. Kangaskhan Parent/Child Tournament Promo

History: Created for a parent-and-child tournament held in Japan in 1995, the Kangaskhan Parent/Child card is exceptionally rare. Only 5 to 7 copies were given to the tournament winners, making it an extremely sought-after card.

Sale & Price: The scarcity of the Kangaskhan Parent/Child card has made it a highly coveted treasure. In 2020, a near-mint copy of this card sold for an astounding $150,100, showcasing the immense demand and willingness of collectors to acquire this rarity.

5. Japanese No Rarity First Edition Charizard:

History: In the earliest printings of the Pokémon TCG in Japan, a unique variant of the First Edition Charizard card was released without rarity symbols. This version is often referred to as the “No Rarity” First Edition Charizard, and its scarcity and significance make it a prized possession among collectors.

Sale & Price: The Japanese No Rarity First Edition Charizard has seen its value surge in recent years. A PSA 10-graded copy of this card was sold for a remarkable $10,100, showcasing the esteem collectors place on this exceptional variant.

All in all, the year 1995 holds a special place in the hearts of Pokémon enthusiasts, representing the genesis of a cultural phenomenon that continues to thrive. The Pikachu Illustrator, Holographic Shadowless First Edition Charizard, Japanese Topsun Blue Back Pikachu, Kangaskhan Parent/Child Tournament Promo, and Japanese No Rarity First Edition Charizard cards stand as the rarest gems from this seminal year.

Their limited quantities, intriguing histories, and breathtaking prices make them treasured artifacts in the Pokémon collector’s world. As we journey through time, these cards remind us of the humble origins of Pokémon and the extraordinary heights it has reached.