Top 10 Most Pricey First Pokémon Cards

Hello, Pokémon fans! If you like the Pokémon Card Game, you know it's full of cards that lots of folk want. Since it came out in 1996, this game has grown to be big, making lots of cards, some of which are worth a lot.

Now, we're looking at the top Base Set Pokémon cards in 2023. If you're a big-time fan or just got into it, this guide will help you know the top cards. Why These Cards Are So Good These are more than just thin bits of card—they're things people want!

The Base Set, with folks like Charizard, Blastoise, and Pikachu, has some cards with a high price. Their worth comes from things like how rare they are, what shape they're in, and how much folk want them.

Cards with no shadow and those with odd things about them can make lots of cash.

The prices are from TCGPlayer and could change.

#10. Raichu – No Shadow Holofoil

Cost: $103.64

First on our list is the Raichu with no shadow.

This card is neat and one of the first Raichu cards made. Cards with no shadow on the right side and new things make them worth more. Since folks love Pikachu, this card is worth more too.

#9. Mewtwo – No Shadow Holofoil

Cost: $115.63

Mewtwo, the strong psychic, is next.

Much of this comes from "Pokémon: The First Movie". This rare card costs lots, even if it's not great in TCG. Folk love it for its spot in the Pokémon world.

#8. Zapdos – No Shadow Holofoil

Cost: $117.62

Zapdos, the first of the big birds in the Base Set, is another card worth a lot. Its strong hits and nice look make it a thing folks want. Cards with no shadow cost more, which shows its high worth.

#7. Nidoking – No Shadow Holofoil

Cost: $127.86

Nidoking is big in the Pokémon TCG. Its Toxic hit can do lots of harm. This no shadow card is worth more too. Folk like its hits and the time they first saw it in the games.

#6. Blastoise – No End Holofoil

Cost: $128.37

Blastoise, the last form of Squirtle, is a fan pick. This no end card is still a big deal. It's neat and strong, so it's good for any big card set.

#5. Venusaur – Shadowless Holofoil

Market Price: $142.58

Venusaur, Bulbasaur’s ultimate form, is another key player from the original starter trio. While not as powerful as Blastoise or Charizard in the TCG, its shadowless version is highly valued for its artwork and the general popularity of Kanto starters. Collectors love it for its nostalgic value and rarity.

#4. Alakazam – Shadowless Holofoil

Market Price: $175.31

Alakazam, known for its impressive special attack in the games, holds its own in the TCG with its Damage Swap ability. This shadowless card commands a high price, thanks to its sleek design and the card’s competitive edge in early TCG play. It’s a must-have for collectors who appreciate both form and function.

#3. Blastoise – Shadowless Holofoil

Market Price: $183.54

Blastoise makes a second appearance on our list with its shadowless variant. This version is worth significantly more than its Unlimited counterpart, reflecting its rarity and the enduring popularity of this powerful water-type Pokémon. Its Rain Dance ability made it a key card in early TCG strategies.

#2. Charizard – Unlimited Holofoil

Market Price: $385.96

Charizard is the ultimate chase card. Even in its Unlimited form, it’s highly coveted for its high HP and powerful attacks. This card set the stage for Charizard’s future TCG dominance, making it a prized piece for any collector. It’s not just a card—it’s a symbol of the Pokémon phenomenon.

#1. Charizard – Shadowless Holofoil

Market Price: $893.29

Topping the list is the shadowless Charizard. This card is the crown jewel of any collection, often fetching prices well over $1,000. Its design, rarity, and iconic status make it the most desirable Base Set card. If you have this card, you’re holding onto a piece of Pokémon history.

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re a veteran collector or just starting, these Base Set cards are the ultimate treasures. Each card tells a story of Pokémon’s rich history and the incredible journey from a simple game to a global phenomenon. So, if you have any of these cards, treasure them—they’re more than just collectibles; they’re a piece of the magic that has captivated millions. Happy collecting!