While the trainers often steal the spotlight in modern sets, Munikis / Nihil Zero (released Jan 23, 2026) reminds us that the original mascots still run the game. Meowth ex SAR has emerged as a surprising heavy hitter, proving that Team Rocket’s favorite cat is serious business.

Here is the current market breakdown from the collector hub of Akihabara.

Current Market Value & Buy Rates

As of Jan 23, 2026

Category	Price (JPY)
Market Price (Condition A)	¥18,000 ~ ¥26,000
Market Price (PSA 10)	–
Buy Price (Condition A)	¥18,000
Buy Price (PSA 10)	–

Source: Buy prices based on data from Snkrdunk Akihabara.

Note: Buy Price refers to what stores pay you. Market Price refers to actual transaction values between collectors.

For real-time updates, check their official X (Twitter) account: @snkrdunk_akiba.

Price History Tracker

Buy Price (Store Offer)

• 2026.01.23: ¥18,000 (Raw/Condition A)

Transaction Price (Market Value)

• 2026.01.23: ¥26,000 (Raw/Condition A)
• Analyst Note: There is currently a significant gap between the store buy price (¥18,000) and the street transaction price (¥26,000). This volatility suggests the market is still deciding the card’s ceiling, with high demand driving peer-to-peer prices up.

Why the Hype? The “That’s Right!” Effect

Meowth is trading at a premium price point usually reserved for legendary Pokémon or top-tier Waifu cards. Why? It comes down to legacy and art direction.

1. The Anime Legend & Team Rocket Nostalgia

While Meowth (Nyarth) originated in the Red & Green (Gen 1) games as a version exclusive, his true claim to fame is the Anime.

As the only Pokémon who taught himself to speak human language to impress a crush, Meowth became the third pillar of the iconic Team Rocket trio alongside Jessie (Musashi) and James (Kojiro). For global fans, he isn’t just a monster; he’s a character with as much personality as Ash’s Pikachu. That deep emotional connection drives serious collector demand.

2. The “Maneki Neko” Aesthetic

Meowth is based on the Maneki Neko (Beckoning Cat), a traditional Japanese figurine believed to bring good luck and wealth.

This SAR card leans heavily into that cultural origin. The illustration features a pop-art style with Meowth striking a classic “beckoning” pose. It’s not just a Pokémon card; it feels like a good luck charm. The vibrant, playful design by Natsumi Yoshida makes it a standout display piece.

3. Rising Value of “AR” Lines

We’ve seen a trend recently where Art Rares (AR) and Special Art Rares (SAR) of iconic Gen 1 Pokémon skyrocket in value. Previous promo cards, like the “Meowth P” from the Start Deck Generations Special Battle Set, saw price spikes due to this “art-first” demand (and even sparked counterfeit issues due to scarcity). This new SAR feels like a culmination of that rising trend.

Card Details

• Card Name: Meowth ex
• Type: Pokémon
• Rarity: SAR (Special Art Rare)
• Set: Munikis / Nihil Zero
• Release Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
• Illustrator: Natsumi Yoshida
• Card Number: 114/080