Discover the Potential of Pokémon Cards.

The story of the Pokémon TCG begins in Japan with the release of Bandai Carddass cards in September 1996. Unlike today’s booster packs, these cards were sold in vending machines. The first set, Green Version, was followed by Red Version, introducing iconic rookie cards such as Charizard, illustrated by Ken Sugimori. These vending machine cards, often damaged due to poor handling, are now incredibly rare; a PSA 10 Charizard can sell for over $10,000.

On 20 October 1996, the first official Pokémon TCG set was released: Expansion Pack (commonly known as Base Set). This 102-card set laid the foundation for the game, featuring iconic holographic cards like Charizard, Venusaur, and Blastoise. A subset of cards without the rarity symbol—referred to as No Rarity—has become a grail for collectors.

The late 1990s brought rapid developments. In 1997, Toppsun cards entered the scene but were mistakenly catalogued as being from 1995 due to licensing delays. Despite this error, these gum-paired cards became legendary, with the No Number Blue-Back Charizard being among the most coveted.

Sets such as Jungle (1997) and Rocket Gang (1997) expanded the TCG, introducing holographic guarantees in booster packs and debuting Dark Pokémon like Dark Dragonite. The Pikachu Illustrator Card, created for a 1997 art contest, became the most valuable Pokémon card ever, with its $5 million sale to Logan Paul cementing its legendary status.

The late 1990s brought rapid developments. In 1997, Toppsun cards entered the scene but were mistakenly catalogued as being from 1995 due to licensing delays. Despite this error, these gum-paired cards became legendary, with the No Number Blue-Back Charizard being among the most coveted.

Sets such as Jungle (1997) and Rocket Gang (1997) expanded the TCG, introducing holographic guarantees in booster packs and debuting Dark Pokémon like Dark Dragonite. The Pikachu Illustrator Card, created for a 1997 art contest, became the most valuable Pokémon card ever, with its $5 million sale to Logan Paul cementing its legendary status.

The TCG evolved rapidly in the early 2000s:

• Neo Series (2000–2002): Introduced Baby Pokémon and Shining Pokémon, such as Shining Magikarp and Gyarados.
• Legendary Collection (2002): Famous for its reverse holographic “firework” foil pattern.
• Expedition Base Set (2002): Ushered in the e-Reader era with scannable data and unique mechanics.

In 2003, the EX Series began with Ruby & Sapphire, introducing Pokémon EX cards and new mechanics, such as dual typings and shiny Pokémon. Sets like Skyridge (the final Wizards of the Coast release) and Team Rocket Returns remain beloved for their artwork and rarity.

The mid-2000s saw innovation and nostalgia collide:

• Gold Star Cards: Featured in sets such as EX Deoxys and EX Dragon Frontiers, these cards are among the most valuable.
• Diamond & Pearl Era (2007): Introduced Level X cards and the stunning Secret Wonders set.
• Call of Legends (2011): A standalone set renowned for its shiny Legendary Pokémon.

The introduction of full-art cards during the Black & White Era (2011) revitalised interest in the Pokémon TCG. Sets such as Plasma Storm and Legendary Treasures pushed artistic boundaries.

The XY Era (2014) introduced Mega Evolutions and fan-favourite sets like Flashfire (featuring seven unique Charizards) and Evolutions (a homage to the Base Set).

The Sun & Moon Era (2017) marked the debut of Tag Team GX cards and Hidden Fates, the first shiny Pokémon set. This era also introduced Rainbow Rares and Trainer Galleries, redefining collectability.

The Sword & Shield Era marked a resurgence in Pokémon’s popularity, fuelled by the pandemic and influencers such as Logan Paul. Record-breaking sales, including $400,000 for a 1999 Charizard, captured mainstream attention.

Sets like Evolving Skies (2021) and Celebrations (2021) showcased stunning alternate art cards and anniversary tributes. The era concluded with Crown Zenith (2023), blending nostalgia with modern innovations.

The current Scarlet & Violet Era continues to innovate with guaranteed holographics, new rarities such as Illustration Rares, and the return of EX cards. Sets like Obsidian Flames and 151 highlight the Pokémon TCG’s ongoing creativity.