[Update 22 Jul 2024] It has now been confirmed that an earlier version of this card—specifically, the Special Art Rare (SAR) card from Clay Burst [SV2D]—will be restocked as part of a full-set restock coming in either August or September 2024. With this being one of the most valuable and coveted cards in the Pokémon TCG’s ninth generation, expect demand for this card to soar as soon as the restock drops.

It isn’t all that often that a Gym Leader becomes a clear fan favorite among Pokémon TCG players and collectors. Yet, this is exactly what has happened with Iono, the Levincia Gym Leader.

While it’s true that many female characters have risen in popularity in no small part due to the preponderance of men among Pokémon TCG enthusiasts, the Electric-type specialist’s skyrocketing popularity has nevertheless been nothing short of remarkable—culminating in this Special Art Rare (SAR) card from Shiny Treasure ex [SV4a].

This card wasn’t even expected to have been a major hit, having been originally released in the Clay Burst [SV2D] expansion as merely an Uncommon card. However, it wasn’t long until Creatures Inc. could no longer overlook the card’s immense popularity, leading to its reissue in even rarer forms and with more striking, spectacular illustrations.

Perhaps one characteristic that sets Iono apart from many other female characters who haven’t even come close to this level of popularity among the fanbase is her relatability—especially among younger fans. Depicted in-series as a social media influencer and video streamer, Iono is clearly a character designed with Gen Z in mind.

Adding to this is the utility of the card. When used early in the game or by a player who’s fallen behind, the card’s ability to draw multiple cards at once might sometimes be enough to turn the tides of the match in one fell swoop.

In English, this card is part of the Paldean Fates [PAF] set. Its card number in that set is 237/091.

An Iono (Shiny Treasures ex [SV4a] 350/190) card goes for ¥39,000 (~US$260).

In other TCG-related news, check out the Monkey D. Luffy (Nika) card from Awakening of the New Era [OP-05]. Alternatively, you can also head over to the SNKRDUNK App via the banner below and find the top trending and latest single cards and boxes.