Starter Pokémon and their final forms are typically among the most popular Pokémon. This was, as usual, the case with the fifth-generation starters (with, perhaps, the exception of the somewhat controversial Emboar). That being said, while the Serperior V card from eighth-generation Pokémon TCG set Incandescent Arcana [S11a] does carry notable value, this value isn’t mainly propped up by its status as a final-form starter.

In this card’s Full Art illustration, Serperior V is depicted alongside Rosa, the female protagonist of the Pokémon Black and White video games. Not only does this card get a value boost because it features a female character; the fact that it’s specifically Rosa plays a role as well. That’s because within the Pokémon fan community and even beyond it, Rosa is perhaps best known for being featured in a rather suggestive meme.

That being said, Serperior V itself does contribute to the card’s high value. The Grass-type serpent is shown extended to its maximum length, its right eye placed as though it’s giving a direct stare. This adds to the Pokémon’s menacing, powerful aura—something that Gen 5 video game players will readily attest to, given the immense power of Contrary, Serperior’s Hidden Ability.

While on the subject of the video games, there’s also a nod to the canonical material in the background of the illustration. The erupting volcano in the background is Reversal Mountain, where the Legendary Pokémon Heatran dwells in Pokémon Black 2 and White 2.

In English, this card is card TG13/TG30 in Silver Tempest.

A copy of a Serperior V (Incandescent Arcana [S11a] 084/068) card sells for 3,900 JPY (~US$25).

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