The Pokémon TCG 30th Anniversary Set: What is “30th CELEBRATION” and When Does It Drop?

Get ready, trainers! To commemorate three decades of the Pokémon TCG, the highly anticipated 30th-anniversary expansion pack, “30th CELEBRATION,” is set for a simultaneous worldwide release on September 16, 2026.

The biggest buzz surrounding this landmark set is the debut of a brand-new rarity: FUR (Futuristic Rare). This ultra-premium tier features Mew ex and Mewtwo ex with stunning, vibrant visuals designed by YOSHIROTTEN, a renowned Japanese graphic artist celebrated for his high-end digital art and avant-garde style. Built around the concept of “inspiring hope for the future,” these cards mark a historic first for the TCG and are already driving the community into a frenzy.

But that’s not all. In honor of the 30th anniversary, the set will feature 30 unique Pikachu cards illustrated by 30 different legendary artists. Every single pack is guaranteed to include one of these Pikachu cards, and all of them will feature a stunning holofoil finish. It’s an absolute dream come true for completionists, offering a beautiful showcase of diverse art styles and personalities for Pokémon’s iconic mascot.

Furthermore, nostalgia bait is running high with a special sub-set of 30 iconic historical cards getting premium reprints. Expect to see heavy hitters like the original 1996 Base Set Charizard and the massive Sun & Moon era favorite Pikachu & Zekrom GX. This trip down memory lane makes 30th CELEBRATION a must-have for day-one fans, casual collectors, and competitive players alike.

“30th CELEBRATION” Estimated Market Values & Buyback Prices

Note: All prices are listed in Japanese Yen (JPY), reflecting the initial trends from SNKRDUNK.

Mew ex FUR [#135/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥150,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥105,000

Market Analysis: This card marks the debut of the historic “FUR” rarity, featuring eye-popping, vivid artwork by graphic designer YOSHIROTTEN. Beyond its immense collector value, it’s a competitive beast. Its Ability, Memory Spiral, allows Mew ex to use any attack from your Benched Pokémon, giving it incredible tactical flexibility. Expect this to be one of the top chase cards of the entire 2026 season.

Mewtwo ex FUR [#134/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥150,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥105,000

Market Analysis: Ever since Pokémon Red and Blue, Mewtwo has reigned as one of the franchise’s most legendary and menacing figures. Combined with the hype of the 30th anniversary and the jaw-dropping aesthetic of the new FUR rarity, this card is bound to be at the top of every high-end collector’s wishlist across generations.

Pikachu ex SAR (Speculative Insertion)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥70,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥49,000

*Editorial Note: This card is a placeholder prediction by our editorial team and has not been officially confirmed for inclusion.

Market Analysis: While not officially confirmed, editorial predictions strongly suggest an SAR (Special Art Rare) variant for the face of the franchise. Pikachu cards consistently break the market—for instance, the Pikachu ex SAR from the “Start Deck 100 Battle Collection” (No. 025 deck) trades for a staggering 350,000 JPY. If an SAR drops in this set, expect its value to skyrocket instantly.

Mew ex SAR (Speculative Insertion)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥50,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥35,000

*Editorial Note: This card is a placeholder prediction by our editorial team and has not been officially confirmed for inclusion.

Market Analysis: Mew has captured hearts globally since its debut as the OG Mythical Pokémon. With its FUR variant locked in, a full-art SAR version is highly probable. Given the historic weight of this 30th-anniversary set, a Mew ex SAR would trigger massive day-one demand.

Mewtwo ex SAR (Speculative Insertion)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥50,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥35,000

*Editorial Note: This card is a placeholder prediction by our editorial team and has not been officially confirmed for inclusion.

Market Analysis: As a perennial fan favorite, Mewtwo cards always command a premium. For context, 2025’s Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex SAR currently trades well north of 80,000 JPY. If a clean, full-art SAR drops alongside the FUR version, it could easily outpace previous iterations.

Eevee ex SAR (Speculative Insertion)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥50,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥35,000

*Editorial Note: This card is a placeholder prediction by our editorial team and has not been officially confirmed for inclusion.

Market Analysis: Eevee holds a massive cult following right alongside Pikachu. Recent trends from Japan’s Terastal Fest ex showed that SAR versions of Eevee and its “Eeveelutions” easily cleared 10,000 JPY out of the gate, with the ultra-popular Umbreon ex SAR commanding around 70,000 JPY today. An anniversary-stamped Eevee SAR will easily see a massive multiplier.

Greninja ex SAR (Speculative Insertion)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥50,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥35,000

Editorial Note: This card is a placeholder prediction by our editorial team and has not been officially confirmed for inclusion.
Image Disclaimer: The image displayed above features a different rarity of this card for reference purposes.

Market Analysis: With its sleek ninja aesthetic, Greninja regularly tops global popularity polls. Iconic prints like Mega Greninja ex SAR and standard Greninja ex SAR remain elite chase cards. A new 30th-anniversary rendition will be an instant hit for Western and Eastern collectors alike.

Sylveon ex SAR (Speculative Insertion)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥50,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥35,000

Editorial Note: This card is a placeholder prediction by our editorial team and has not been officially confirmed for inclusion.
Image Disclaimer: The image displayed above features a different rarity of this card for reference purposes.

Market Analysis: Sylveon’s fairy-tale aesthetic and ribbon-like feelers give it massive appeal, particularly in the premium art markets. With Sylveon ex already confirmed for 30th CELEBRATION, a potential SAR version would see overwhelming collector demand.

Charizard [#137/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥5,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥3,500

Market Analysis: The ultimate holy grail of 1996 Base Set is back with a special 30th-anniversary twist. To put things into perspective, the classic reprint from the 25th Anniversary Edition Promo Card Pack currently commands over 100,000 JPY. As the undisputed king of vintage Pokémon, this card is bound to be a major target.

Pikachu & Zekrom GX [#160/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥3,500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥2,450

Market Analysis: Originally released in 2018’s Team Up (Japanese set: Tag Bolt), this card features an epic stance of Pikachu riding on Zekrom’s wing. Tag Team cards boast a massive legacy among modern collectors, and securing this special 30th-anniversary version is a major win for fans of the late Sun & Moon era.

Lapras AR [#106/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥2,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥1,400

Market Analysis: This incredibly cozy Art Rare shows Lapras floating peacefully on the ocean, surrounded by friendly cameos from Shaymin, Spaleo, and Psyduck. Its wholesome, scenic vibe makes it a highly desirable piece for binder collectors.

Hisuian Zorua AR [#122/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥1,500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥1,050

Market Analysis: First introduced in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Hisuian Zorua’s ghostly, ethereal white-and-purple design set it apart from its original form. Staring out from a beautifully illustrated wilderness, this card’s high aesthetic value guarantees steady demand.

Drifloon AR [#111/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥1,000~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥700

Market Analysis: This unique card captures the Ghost-type balloon hiding among actual amusement park balloons. It’s a clever, whimsical composition that perfectly scratches that quirky collector itch.

Lycanroc (Midnight Form) AR [#113/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥1,000 JPY~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥700 JPY

Market Analysis: Known for its aggressive stance and piercing red eyes, the Midnight Form of Lycanroc shines in this gritty, dark back-alley illustration. A fantastic pull for fans who love edgier, cinematic artwork.

Pikachu (14/30) [#030/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥350

Market Analysis: Illustrated by Okacheke (famous for Misty’s Psyduck AR and Latias ex SAR), this adorable card features Pikachu squeezing its cheeks to peek through the railings of a narrow staircase.

Pikachu (15/30) [#031/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥350

Market Analysis: A dynamic, high-energy card showing Pikachu joyfully discharging electricity. It beautifully showcases the signature style of Yuu Nishida, the artist behind elite cards like Iono’s Bellibolt ex SAR and Sylveon V SA.

Pikachu (25/30) [#041/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥350

Market Analysis: A massive pull for historians, this card features brand-new artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original creator of Pikachu. With its warm tones, nostalgic grassy fields, and a special holographic 30th-anniversary logo integrated into the attack background, this is bound to be a globally sought-after piece.

Greninja ex RR [#015/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥350

Market Analysis: On the competitive side, Greninja ex is drawing major eyes for its attack, Shadow Slash (or contextually its stealth attack), which can sniper-damage opponent’s Pokémon based on damage counters. Its synergy with upcoming cards from the Ninja Spinner expansion makes it a high-utility Double Rare (RR).

Sylveon ex RR [#059/103]

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• SNKRDUNK Price: TBD
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥350

Market Analysis: Coated in a beautiful bubble-like visual effect that highlights Sylveon’s charming personality. As an iconic Eeveelution backed by the 30th-anniversary stamp, this Double Rare will hold a very solid floor price.

Price Breakdown by Rarity Tier

FUR (Futuristic Rare)

Mewtwo ex

• Estimated Market Value: ¥150,000~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥105,000

Mew ex

• Estimated Market Value: ¥150,000~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥105,000

AR (Art Rare)

Lapras

• Estimated Market Value: ¥2,000~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥1,400

Hisuian Zorua

• Estimated Market Value: ¥1,000~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥700

Drifloon

• Estimated Market Value: ¥1,000~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥700

Lycanroc (Midnight Form)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥1,500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥1,050

RR (Double Rare)

Greninja ex

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price:-

Sylveon ex

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥-

Promo / Special Pikachu

Pikachu (14/30)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥-

Pikachu (15/30)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥-

Pikachu (25/30)

• Estimated Market Value: ¥500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥-

Premium Reprints

Charizard

• Estimated Market Value: ¥5,000~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥-

Pikachu & Zekrom GX

• Estimated Market Value: ¥3,500~
• Estimated Japanese Buyback Price: ¥-

What Other Hidden Gems Are Expected in “30th CELEBRATION”?

The 30 Iconic Nostalgia Reprints

Speculation has run wild across X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit following a teaser on the official Pokémon TCG 30th Anniversary special website. Fans spotted a visual montage of 30 historical cards. Since Charizard and Pikachu & Zekrom GX are already confirmed, it’s safe to assume the remaining 28 cards from that video will form the backbone of this set’s nostalgic subset.

Will We See a Secret Rare Eevee?

Given Eevee’s immense standing in the franchise, many insiders predict it will get a high-rarity slot. Looking back at the 25th Anniversary Collection, Eevee didn’t get a dedicated base card, though Umbreon Star was famously tucked into the exclusive promo packs. A premium-rarity Eevee in 30th CELEBRATION would send shockwaves through the collecting community.

“30th CELEBRATION” Expected Booster Box Pull Rates

While the exact pull rates for the new FUR rarity remain a mystery, we can look at historical data for a baseline. During the 25th Anniversary Collection era, a standard Japanese booster box guaranteed 4 Double Rares (RR), 2 Triple Rares (RRR), and 1 Professor’s Research (Professor Oak) SR, with the elusive Mew UR acting as a rare master-case hit. Expect 30th CELEBRATION to follow a similar high-stakes structure, making every box an exhilarating open.

Item	Details
Product Name	Pokémon Card Game Expansion Pack “30th CELEBRATION”
Release Date	Wednesday, 16th September 2026
Price	¥360 per pack (Contains 6 holo cards) ¥7,200 per box
Official Website	Pokémon Card Game MEGA Expansion Pack “30th CELEBRATION” Special Site

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