The rustle of a booster pack, the tantalizing glimpse of a foil edge, the breathless anticipation of what lies within—these are the sensations that bind generations in the shared passion for collecting Pokémon cards. More than a mere pastime, this hobby serves as a portal to childhood, a vibrant echo of youthful exuberance rekindled in the hands of adults. For some, it’s a sentimental journey, a chance to recapture the magic of their youth, each card a tangible link to cherished memories. The vibrant artwork, the strategic gameplay, the simple joy of discovery—these elements weave a tapestry of nostalgia that resonates deeply.

Pokémon card collecting offers more than personal enjoyment. It fosters a thriving community where enthusiasts connect, share knowledge, and celebrate the thrill of the hunt for rare cards. This pursuit, whether completing a set or finding that elusive holographic, provides a sense of accomplishment. 

Moreover, collecting can be an investment. First Edition Pokémon cards, especially, can appreciate in value, turning a childhood hobby into a potentially lucrative venture. The cards, therefore, represent a blend of nostalgia, community, and investment, appealing across generations.

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How Much Is a First Edition Pokémon Card Worth?

Charizard’s enduring popularity within the Pokémon universe is undeniable, consistently ranking among the most sought-after and beloved creatures. The value of a graded English First Edition Charizard Pokémon card is a testament to this popularity.

Information from the Instagram page @thefindcard reveals just how valuable these cards can be. The English First Edition Charizard from the 1999 Pokémon Base Set commands a high price in the collectibles market.

In 2024, record-breaking sales of these cards occurred. A PSA 10-graded Charizard sold for US$170,801 at Goldin Auctions on 18 August. Even more impressive was the sale of a CGC Pristine 10 copy, which fetched US$180,000 at Sotheby’s on 25 September. These sales figures highlight the enduring demand and investment potential of this legendary Pokémon card, explaining why collectors are so eager to acquire a First Edition Charizard.

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How Do You Identify if Your Card Is a First Edition Pokémon Card?

What do First edition Pokémon cards look like? First Edition Pokémon cards are easily identified by the “Edition 1” symbol. This symbol is typically found opposite the Expansion symbol, or beside it in early Japanese 1st Edition sets. The same symbol also appears on 1st Edition booster packs and boxes.

Wizards of the Coast pioneered the First Edition Pokémon Cards concept for English and European releases when the Pokémon TCG debuted in the West, starting with the Base Set. Initially, Japanese cards did not have 1st Edition prints. Every set up to Neo Destiny (except Base Set 2) had a 1st Edition printing. However, the pressure to meet release deadlines, particularly during the Neo era, led Wizards to abandon the practice. By late 2001, they had even stopped their pre-planned, timed releases. This resulted in 1st Edition runs sometimes launching simultaneously with, or even after, their Unlimited counterparts, effectively making them pointless. The need to release e-Card sets before Wizards’ license expired in 2003 was another factor.

When Nintendo assumed control of the TCG, they decided to eliminate 1st Edition printings altogether. Ironically, just as English 1st Edition cards were being discontinued, Japan began introducing 1st Edition prints for their own sets.

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How Much Is a First Edition Pokémon Card Booster Box Worth?

The 1999 First Edition Pokémon Card Booster Box holds a position of immense value and desirability within the trading card collecting community. Its worth is clearly demonstrated by recent auction results in 2024. Sealed boxes have commanded impressive prices, with Heritage Auctions seeing sales between US$187,500 and a record-breaking US$237,500. Even opened boxes retain significant value, as evidenced by a US$156,000 sale at Fanatics.

Several factors contribute to the high valuation of these booster boxes. Their rarity, coupled with the nostalgia they evoke, plays a significant role. Furthermore, the potential to find highly valuable cards within, particularly a pristine 1st Edition Charizard (which can individually fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars), adds to their appeal.

As a sealed product from the dawn of the Pokémon TCG, these boxes represent a piece of history, making them highly sought after by both collectors and investors. The diminishing supply of unopened boxes each year only intensifies demand, solidifying the 1999 First Edition Pokémon Card Booster Box’s status as a top-tier collectible.

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Were There Japanese First Edition Pokémon Cards?

The release of Pokémon VS and Pokémon Web in 2001 marked the beginning of Japanese First Edition Pokémon Card runs. These runs continued until the release of Expansion Pack 20th Anniversary, the Japanese equivalent of the Evolutions expansion.

A notable difference between Japanese and English sets is the print runs. Many Japanese sets had smaller Unlimited print runs than their 1st Edition counterparts. This has resulted in Unlimited cards from these sets often being rarer and more difficult to find, making them unique collectibles within the Pokémon Trading Card Game world.

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Best 10 Japanese First Edition Pokémon Cards

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10. Team Aqua’s Kyogre EX

The Team Aqua’s Kyogre EX First Edition card is a Water-type Basic Pokémon-EX. It originates from the Double Crisis subset. The card’s artwork features Shelly, Matt, and several Team Aqua Pokémon, highlighting the team’s importance in this particular set.

9. Team Magma’s Groudon EX

The Team Magma’s Groudon EX First Edition card is a Fighting-type Basic Pokémon-EX card from the Double Crisis subset. The card’s illustration depicts Courtney, Tabitha, and a group of Team Magma Pokémon, emphasizing the team’s prominence within the Double Crisis set.

8. Sylveon EX

The Sylveon EX RR First Edition card, from the PokéKyun Collection, is a beautifully designed Fairy-type Pokémon-EX. Its adorable illustration of Sylveon, surrounded by hearts and sparkling effects, perfectly captures the whimsical and charming aesthetic of the set. The card embodies the themes of friendship and cuteness that define the PokéKyun Collection.

7. Flareon EX

This first edition card highlights Flareon’s fiery charm and distinctive abilities alongside Vaporeon and Jolteon. It celebrates the iconic trio of Eeveelutions and increases its allure for fans of the series. Given the high demand for Eeveelutions among collectors, the card is a coveted item that many enthusiasts are eager to add to their collections.

6. Pikachu

Pikachu is widely recognized as one of the most cherished Pokémon, making it highly sought after by collectors and players. This particular card features not just one, but four adorable Pikachu, sparking a frenzy among fans eager to obtain it. The First Edition Pikachu card beautifully showcases vibrant and playful artwork that captures Pikachu’s cheerful spirit and charm.

5. Charizard EX

It is not surprising that a Charizard card ranks among the top selections for first edition cards. This particular card features stunning artwork that captures Charizard in a dynamic pose, radiating power and majesty. Its intricate design and holographic finish enhance its visual allure, making it a highly coveted item among collectors.

4. Charizard EX

The Pokémon Card Game Expansion Pack 20th Anniversary celebrates one of the franchise’s most iconic Pokémon with a stunning tribute. The Charizard first edition card features a beautifully illustrated Charizard in a dynamic pose, showcasing its fiery spirit and powerful presence. Alongside this magnificent Pokémon is Flareon, one of the cherished Eeveelutions adored by fans. As a result, the card is highly sought after by both collectors and players.

3. Gengar EX

Gengar EX First Edition is a highly sought-after card, making it a top 10 pick. This Psychic-type Pokémon card is renowned for its stunning artwork and formidable abilities. As a secret rare, it features Gengar in an energetic pose, enchanting both collectors and players. It’s a remarkable addition to any Pokémon card collection.

2. M Charizard EX

The Pokémon Card Game 20th Anniversary Expansion Pack showcased a striking depiction of a beloved Pokémon from the franchise. Within this set was the first edition Mega Charizard card, a highly sought-after “chase card” that many collectors had hoped to pull when the set launched in 2016.

1. Umbreon EX

The First Edition Umbreon EX card showcases the beloved Dark-type Eeveelution, Umbreon, in a captivating pose. A mystical aura surrounds the Pokémon, emphasizing its mysterious nature. Considered the most sought-after card among the Eeveelutions, this Umbreon EX is likely to become a “Holy Grail” for many Pokémon Trading Card Game collectors and players.

Looking for a First Edition Pokémon Card not on the list? You can search and check out more on the SNKRDUNK App here.

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