Sandshrew (Base Set #62) Collector’s Guide

Quick Facts

• Pokémon: Sandshrew
• HP: 40
• Type: Fighting
• Stage: Basic
• Rarity: Common
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Set: Base
• Card Number: 62
• Legality: unknown

Sandshrew is a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon with 40 HP. It features a single attack, Sand-attack, which deals 10 damage and can potentially prevent the opponent’s next attack if a coin flip results in tails. The card has a retreat cost of 1 and resists Lightning attacks (-30 damage), but is weak to Grass (×2 damage). The flavor text notes that Sandshrew burrows deep underground in arid locations and only emerges to hunt for food.

Key Printings

This guide focuses exclusively on the original Base Set printing of Sandshrew, card number 62. This printing is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and its status as a common card in the foundational Base set of the Pokémon TCG.

Variants & Identifiers

• Set Code: base1
• Subtypes: Basic
• Types: Fighting
• Weakness: Grass (×2)
• Resistance: Lightning (-30)
• Retreat Cost: 1
• Attack: Sand-attack (10 damage) with a coin flip effect
• Evolves From: None (Basic Pokémon)
• Print Variants: None reported

Care & Storage Tips

To maintain the condition and value of this Base Set Sandshrew card, collectors should:
– Store the card in a protective sleeve or top loader to prevent surface scratches.
– Keep it away from direct sunlight to avoid fading of the Ken Sugimori illustration.
– Maintain a stable, low-humidity environment to prevent warping or moisture damage.
– Handle the card by its edges to avoid fingerprints and oils on the surface.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Base Set: Sandshrew #62 is part of the original Base set, which introduced many iconic Pokémon cards. This common Fighting-type Basic Pokémon card is a staple for collectors interested in early TCG history and features classic artwork by Ken Sugimori.