Collector’s Guide: Dragonite (Fossil #19)

Quick Facts

• Pokémon: Dragonite
• Set: Fossil (Base3)
• Card Number: 19
• Rarity: Rare
• HP: 100
• Type: Colorless
• Stage: Stage 2 (Evolves from Dragonair)
• Illustrator: Kagemaru Himeno
• Legality: unknown

Dragonite from the Fossil set is a powerful Stage 2 Pokémon known for its “Step In” Pokémon Power, allowing strategic switching with a Dragonite on the Bench, and its “Slam” attack, which deals 40 damage times the number of heads from two coin flips. It has a Fighting resistance of -30 and a retreat cost of 1.

Key Printings

This exact printing is from the Fossil expansion, identified by the set code “base3.” It features classic artwork by Kagemaru Himeno, capturing Dragonite’s intelligence and rarity as described in the flavor text: “An extremely rarely seen marine Pokémon. Its intelligence is said to match that of humans.”

Variants & Identifiers

• Set Name: Fossil
• Set Code: base3
• Card Number: 19
• Rarity: Rare
• Stage: Stage 2
• Type: Colorless
• Illustrator: Kagemaru Himeno
• Print Variants: None reported for this exact printing
• Regulation Mark: None
• Release Date: Unknown

Care & Storage Tips

To preserve the condition and value of this rare Fossil Dragonite card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface. Given its age and rarity, maintaining mint or near-mint condition is crucial for collectors.

Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

• Fossil Set: This set introduced several fan-favorite Pokémon with unique artwork and mechanics. Dragonite stands out as a powerful Stage 2 card with a useful Pokémon Power and a high-damage attack, making it a sought-after collectible from this era. The Fossil set is notable for its nostalgic value and classic design elements.

This Dragonite card remains a prized piece for collectors interested in the early expansions of the Pokémon TCG, especially those focusing on the Fossil set. Its unknown legality status means it is primarily valued for collection rather than tournament play.