Collector’s Guide: Maintenance (Base Set #83)

Quick Facts

Maintenance is an Uncommon Trainer card from the original Base Set of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Illustrated by Keiji Kinebuchi, this card features a simple yet strategic effect: by shuffling two other cards from your hand back into your deck, you draw a new card. It has no HP, attacks, abilities, or Pokémon type, and it does not evolve from any other card. The card has a retreat cost of zero and no weaknesses or resistances. Its legality status is unknown.

Key Printings

• Set: Base
• Card Number: 83
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Illustrator: Keiji Kinebuchi
• Regulation Mark: None
• Release Date: Unknown

Variants & Identifiers

This exact printing of Maintenance has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “base1” and card number 83. The card is part of the original Base Set and is recognized by its unique artwork and lack of Pokémon-specific stats.

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition and value of your Maintenance card:

• Store in a protective sleeve to prevent surface scratches.
• Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid fading of the illustration.
• Maintain a stable environment with low humidity to prevent warping.
• Avoid bending or folding the card, especially since it has no special protective features.
• Handle with clean hands or use gloves to prevent oils and dirt transfer.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Base Set: Maintenance #83 is part of the foundational Base Set, which introduced many Trainer cards that support gameplay mechanics. This card’s simple effect of recycling cards from your hand adds strategic depth to deck management. It remains a staple example of early Trainer cards without Pokémon stats or attacks.

Additional Information

• Rules Text: “Shuffle 2 of the other cards from your hand into your deck in order to draw a card.”
• Legal Status: unknown
• Image URL: /images/base1/base1-83.jpg

This guide covers the exact printing of Maintenance from the Base Set, providing collectors and players with essential information for identification and care.