Top 10 most expensive Pokémon cards ever sold!

In the world of Pokémon, some cards have become legendary for more than just their in-game power, they’ve turned into prized collectibles worth millions. From rare promotional cards to the iconic and beloved first editions, the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG for short) has produced some incredibly valuable treasures over the years. Which is why I decided to check out which cards are currently known as the top 10 most expensive Pokémon cards! Let’s be honest, we’re both very curious about this so let’s not waste any time and get started with:

10. 2000 Pokemon Neo Genesis 1st Edition #9 Lugia Holo

Only 41 PSA 10-graded copies of this card exist, making it a highly sought-after treasure among collectors. Even rarer, just three have earned the coveted BGS 10 Pristine rating, elevating its exclusivity and prestige. The card perfectly captures Lugia’s majestic presence, with its sleek white body and bold blue chest, representing the epitome of grading perfection. Lugia’s head, marked by black and white accents, gives off an impression of an intense, powerful cry, further amplifying its visual appeal. With such special conditions we shouldn’t be too surprised that it sold for much. How much do you ask? Let’s say….$144,300 in 2021. Yeah, it sold for quite a lot alright.

9. 1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Kangaskhan - Holo Family Event Trophy Card

In May 1998, a unique tournament in Japan brought together parents and children to compete as Pokémon teams, creating a memorable event centered around family and collaboration. What set this competition apart was the bond between generations, as parents and kids worked side by side in pursuit of victory. The Kangaskhan Trophy Card, one of the rarest Pokémon cards in existence, was awarded to celebrate this special occasion. More than just a collectible, the card embodies the spirit of teamwork and family that lies at the core of the Pokémon world, making it a treasured symbol of the game's cross-generational appeal. Can you guess how much this special card is worth? If you’ve guessed $175,000 you’d be correct!

8. 1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Trophy Pikachu Bronze No. 3 - 2nd Tournament

This Bronze Trophy Pikachu, awarded for third place, hails from the prestigious 1997-98 Japanese Lizardon Mega Battle Pokémon tournament. Its rarity is extraordinary, with only a handful ever produced, following an earlier print run for the first-ever Japanese Pokémon tournament in 1997. The card represents the intense competitive spirit of the time, honoring the elite trainers who secured top spots. More than just a collector's item, this Pikachu serves as a tangible connection to the origins of Pokémon tournaments, where each trophy card captures the essence of victory and the passion for competition. Get used to some interesting numbers because the prices will go up from here. This Japanese Promo card was sold for $216,000 in 2023. If only I had that much money :(

7. 2017 P.M. SM Black Star Tsunekazu Ishihara GX Promo Card

Securing the seventh spot on our list of the most expensive Pokémon cards is a limited edition gem with a remarkable backstory. This card was specifically created for employees of The Pokémon Company to commemorate President Tsunekazu Ishihara's 60th birthday in 2017. Adorned with the signature of the visionary who shaped the Pokémon franchise, it serves as a rare reminder of the company’s internal celebrations and the esteemed leadership that has guided the Pokémon world. Beyond its appeal to collectors, this card represents a significant milestone in The Pokémon Company’s vibrant history and the lasting impact of President Ishihara on the Pokémon legacy. This amazing card was sold for $247,230 in 2021, pretty recent!

6. 1997 Pokémon Japanese Promo Trophy Pikachu Bronze No. 3 - 1st Tournament

The 1997 Pokémon Japanese Promo Trophy Pikachu Bronze No. 3 - 1st Tournament card is one of the oldest and most valuable Pokémon cards in existence. This card commemorates the inaugural tournament held at the Makuhari Messe Event Hall in Chiba, Japan, on June 14-15, 1997, which marked the beginning of competitive Pokémon trading card play. Awarded to players who finished in third place across various contests during this two-day event, the Bronze No. 3 Trophy Pikachu quickly became a highly sought-after collectible. Beyond celebrating personal achievements, this card also granted winners preferred entry into the following Lizardon Mega Battle. As a significant artifact from the early days of Pokémon competition, it represents much more than just a collectible; it is a treasured piece of history from the origins of a trading card gaming phenomenon. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the oldest card on our list, dating back to 1997. This beauty was sold in 2023 for…..$300,000.

5. 1998 Pokémon Blastoise #009/165R Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Hologram

This card, created as part of a special commissioned presentation, is incredibly rare, with only two known copies ever produced. The whereabouts of the second card remain unknown, adding an air of mystery to its allure in the world of Pokémon collectibles.

The card showcases an imposing Blastoise, its shell equipped with jet nozzles that launch it with explosive speed and power toward its foes. As a collector’s treasure, this holographic Blastoise not only captures the creature’s awe-inspiring strength but also stands as a unique and prized piece in any serious collection. This card was sold in 2021 for $360,000

4. 1999 Pokémon Game Base Charizard - Holo 1st Edition

Perhaps this is one of the most well-known cards for Pokémon lovers as well as non-Pokémon lovers. Charizard, a magnificent dragon, stands tall on its hind legs, showcasing its powerful wings and unleashing a fierce breath of fire. With a long neck and a striking tail ablaze from countless battles, Charizard's fiery aura symbolizes its immense strength. In its evolutionary line, the loss of its flames can be a dire situation. This vibrant portrayal not only captures the essence of the card but also embodies the mythical charm of Charizard, a staple of the Pokémon universe. Recognized as one of the franchise's most cherished cards, its popularity transcends generations. Of over 3,000 submissions to PSA, only 121 have achieved the prestigious PSA 10 Gem Mint rating.

While we may not sell this specific card for $420,000 (in 2022) we do sell the Pokémon TCG: Charizard EX Super Premium Collection which contains a lot of Charizard goodies and cards!

3. 1998 Pokemon Japanese Promo Trophy Pikachu Silver 2nd-2nd Tournament

This Pikachu Trophy card is more than just a symbol of triumph in the 2nd-2nd Tournament—it's a stunning fusion of rarity and artistry, making it a true Pokémon masterpiece. According to PSA's census, only four of these cards exist, with this particular Pikachu reigning alone at the highest possible grade, amplifying its rarity and exclusivity to extraordinary levels. Because it is in the top three I guess you can take a wild guess as for how much it sold in 2023. What was that? You said $444,000? That is correct!

1998 POKEMON JAPANESE PROMO TROPHY PIKACHU SILVER 2ND - 2ND TOURNAMENT GRADED CARD

2. 1995 Pokemon Japanese Topsun Charizard Scarce Blue Back

Among the 31 copies listed in PSA's records, this Topsun Charizard stands alone, validated by its unmatched rarity. As one of the most valuable Pokémon cards in existence, it embodies a collector's pursuit of both history and scarcity. As the only card of its kind to achieve such a high-grade distinction, it captures the essence of Pokémon’s early years. Set against a vibrant red backdrop, with playful designs of Pikachu, butterflies, and stars, this card is more than just a rare collectible—it's a colorful snapshot of Pokémon's whimsical beginnings. In a realm where rarity meets nostalgia, this Topsun Charizard shines as a symbol of Pokémon’s rich history and the dedication of its collectors. This number two spot sold in 2023 for a pretty hefty price. Guess how much. Whoops. Not even close. It’s actually $493,230! I could only dream of ever having this amount of money!

1. 1998 Pokemon Japanese Promo Illustrator - Holo CoroCoro Comics

Now onto the first place and perhaps my favourite card out of all of them, The 1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Illustrator card featuring Pikachu! Step into the extraordinary world of the rarest Pokémon card: the 1998 Pokémon Japanese Promo Illustrator - Holo CoroCoro Comics. Celebrated as one of the most elusive Pokémon cards globally, only 39 copies were ever officially distributed. Its exclusivity is marked by a distinctive pen symbol in the bottom right corner, setting it apart from other cards. Remarkably, this card has earned a Guinness World Record for being the most expensive Pokémon trading card sold in a private sale. This landmark event took place in Dubai in 2021 when it was acquired by the famous YouTuber Logan Paul. Beyond its scarcity, this Illustrator card embodies the international fascination with Pokémon and the fervor that drives collectors in today’s market. Now it has been a while since we’ve heard about this sale, right? Let me remind you just how much my favorite card sold.

$5,275,000. Yeah. You’re reading it right, $5,275,000. If you ever feel like giving it away Logan I’m more than happy to take the card from you!

As we’ve explored, the world of Pokémon cards is not just a realm of nostalgia; it’s a thriving marketplace filled with rare gems that command astonishing prices. From the iconic Pikachu Illustrator to the elusive 1st Edition Charizard, these cards reflect the passion and dedication of collectors who see more than just a game—they see a piece of history.

The allure of these cards goes beyond their monetary value; they embody the spirit of a beloved franchise that has captivated millions around the globe. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the Pokémon TCG universe, there’s no denying the excitement that comes from discovering rare cards and the stories behind them.

As the Pokémon market continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see which cards emerge as the next big investments. If you’re thinking of starting or expanding your own collection, remember to keep an eye out for these coveted cards. Who knows? You might just stumble upon the next priceless treasure!

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the most expensive Pokémon cards ever sold. Which card surprised you the most? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!