Author: General Ops

  • Collector’s Guide: Koffing (Base Set #51)

    Collector’s Guide: Koffing (Base Set #51)

    Collector’s Guide: Koffing (Base Set #51)

    Koffing Base 51


    Quick Facts

    • Pokémon: Koffing
    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 51
    • Rarity: Common
    • HP: 50
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Weakness: Psychic (×2)
    • Abilities: None
    • Attack: Foul Gas – Costs 2 Grass Energy; deals 10 damage and flips a coin. If heads, the Defending Pokémon is Poisoned; if tails, it is Confused.
    • Flavor Text: “Because it stores several kinds of toxic gases in its body, it is prone to exploding without warning.”
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Koffing appears in the original Base Set, identified as card number 51. It features classic artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita and is a common card with no special abilities but a single attack that can inflict status conditions.


    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Code: base1
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Types: Grass (notably different from Koffing’s usual Poison type in other printings)
    • No known print variants for this card.
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Market Reference Query: “Koffing Base 51”

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve this vintage card’s condition:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
    – Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
    – Handle with clean hands or use gloves to prevent oils and dirt transfer.


    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: This Koffing is part of the foundational Base Set, featuring simple mechanics and iconic art. It reflects early game design with straightforward attacks and low HP, making it a nostalgic piece for collectors.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 51 Common 50 Mitsuhiro Arita

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    Koffing (Base Set) #51

  • Collector’s Guide: Machop (Base Set #52)

    Collector’s Guide: Machop (Base Set #52)

    Collector’s Guide: Machop (Base Set #52)

    Machop


    Quick Facts

    Machop from the Base Set (#52) is a Fighting-type Basic Pokémon card with 50 HP. It features a single attack, Low Kick, which deals 20 damage for one Fighting Energy. This card has a retreat cost of 1 and a weakness to Psychic-type attacks (×2). The card’s flavor text highlights Machop’s dedication to building muscles and training in various martial arts styles.

    • HP: 50
    • Type: Fighting
    • Attack: Low Kick (20 damage)
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rarity: Common
    • Stage: Basic
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the original Base Set printing of Machop, card number 52. It is a straightforward, early representation of Machop in the Pokémon TCG, notable for its classic artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita.


    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Set Code: base1
    • Card Number: 52
    • Rarity: Common
    • Subtype: Basic
    • Types: Fighting
    • Print Variants: None documented for this exact printing
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Evolves From: None

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this vintage card:

    • Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader or card saver.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the artwork.
    • Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
    • Handle with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the card surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: This Machop card is part of the original Base Set, which introduced many iconic Pokémon and established the foundation of the Pokémon TCG. It is a common Basic Fighting-type card with simple but effective gameplay and classic artwork.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 52 Common 50 Mitsuhiro Arita

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    Machop (Base Set) #52

  • Collector’s Guide: Bulbasaur (Base Set #44)

    Collector’s Guide: Bulbasaur (Base Set #44)

    Bulbasaur (Base Set #44) Collector’s Guide

    Bulbasaur Base 44

    Quick Facts

    Bulbasaur from the Base set (#44) is a Basic Grass-type Pokémon card with 40 HP. It features the attack Leech Seed, which deals 20 damage and allows you to remove 1 damage counter from Bulbasaur unless all damage is prevented. This card has a retreat cost of 1 and a Fire-type weakness (×2). It is illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita and classified as a Common rarity. The card’s flavor text reads: “A strange seed was planted on its back at birth. Thus, a plant sprouted and now grows with this Pokémon.” The card’s legality status is unknown.

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 44
    • Rarity: Common
    • HP: 40
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Attack: Leech Seed (Grass, Grass) – 20 damage with healing effect
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Basic

    Variants & Identifiers

    This exact printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code base1 and card number 44. The card does not have a regulation mark or additional subtypes beyond Basic.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this card:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
    – Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
    – Handle with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt transfer.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original Pokémon TCG set introducing foundational cards like Bulbasaur #44. This card is a staple Basic Grass-type with a healing attack, reflecting Bulbasaur’s iconic seed and plant growth theme.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 44 Common 40 Mitsuhiro Arita

    Legality: unknown

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    Bulbasaur (Base Set) #44

  • Collector’s Guide: Caterpie (Base Set #45)

    Collector’s Guide: Caterpie (Base Set #45)

    Caterpie (Base Set #45) Collector’s Guide

    Caterpie Base 45

    Quick Facts

    Caterpie from the Base Set is a Basic Grass-type Pokémon card with 40 HP. It features a single attack, String Shot, which deals 10 damage and has a chance to paralyze the opponent’s Pokémon. The card has a retreat cost of 1 and a Fire-type weakness (×2). Illustrated by Ken Sugimori, this card is classified as Common and is part of the original Base Set series. Its flavor text highlights Caterpie’s ability to climb slopes and walls using suction pads on its feet.

    • HP: 40
    • Type: Grass
    • Attack: String Shot (10 damage; may paralyze)
    • Weakness: Fire ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 1
    • Rarity: Common
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Caterpie from the Base Set, card number 45. No alternate print variants are documented for this specific card.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Set Code: base1
    • Card Number: 45
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Series: Base
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Print Variants: None known

    Care & Storage Tips

    To maintain the condition and value of this Common Base Set Caterpie 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. Using a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets is recommended for long-term preservation.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original release featuring classic Pokémon cards. Caterpie #45 is a straightforward Basic Grass-type with simple mechanics, reflecting the early design philosophy of the Pokémon TCG.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 45 Common 40 Ken Sugimori

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    Caterpie (Base Set) #45

  • Collector’s Guide: Charmander (Base Set #46)

    Collector’s Guide: Charmander (Base Set #46)

    Charmander (Base Set #46) Collector’s Guide

    Quick Facts

    Charmander from the Base set is a Basic Fire-type Pokémon card with 50 HP. It features two attacks: Scratch, dealing 10 damage for one Colorless Energy, and Ember, which requires discarding a Fire Energy attached to Charmander to deal 30 damage. The card has a retreat cost of one Colorless Energy and a Water-type weakness (×2). It is illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita and classified as a Common rarity card.

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 46
    • Rarity: Common
    • HP: 50
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Image:

    Variants & Identifiers

    This specific printing of Charmander has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “base1” and card number 46. The card does not have a regulation mark, and its legality status is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of this vintage Base set Charmander card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Avoid handling the card with bare hands to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the surface. Use a rigid top loader or a card saver for additional protection, especially if the card is graded or intended for long-term collection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Charmander #46 is a foundational Fire-type Basic Pokémon card from the original Base set. It is valued for its nostalgic appeal and classic artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita. The card’s simple but iconic design represents one of the original starter Pokémon, making it a popular collectible among fans and collectors.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 46 Common 50 Mitsuhiro Arita

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    Charmander (Base Set) #46

  • Collector’s Guide: Diglett (Base Set #47)

    Collector’s Guide: Diglett (Base Set #47)

    Diglett (Base Set #47) Collector’s Guide

    Diglett

    Quick Facts

    • Pokémon: Diglett
    • HP: 30
    • Type: Fighting
    • Stage: Basic
    • Rarity: Common
    • Illustrator: Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 47
    • Retreat Cost: 0
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Resistance: Lightning (-30)
    • Legality: unknown

    Diglett is a Basic Fighting-type Pokémon card from the original Base set. It features two attacks: Dig (10 damage) and Mud Slap (30 damage). The card’s flavor text notes that Diglett lives about three feet underground, feeding on plant roots, and sometimes appears above ground.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Diglett from the Base set, card number 47. This printing is notable for its classic artwork by Keiji Kinebuchi and its status as a Common card in the foundational Pokémon TCG set.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Code: base1
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Print Variations: None documented for this exact printing
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Legal Status: unknown

    Collectors can identify this card by its Fighting type, low HP of 30, and the distinctive artwork. It has no special abilities and features straightforward attacks, making it a simple yet iconic card from the Base set.

    Care & Storage Tips

    • Store the card in a protective sleeve to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.
    • Keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve the colors and prevent fading.
    • Maintain a stable, low-humidity environment to avoid warping or moisture damage.
    • Use a top loader or binder with rigid pages for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: This Diglett card is part of the original Base set, which introduced many foundational Pokémon cards. It is a Common Basic Pokémon with simple attacks and low HP, reflecting the early design philosophy of the game.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 47 Common 30 Keiji Kinebuchi

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    Diglett (Base Set) #47

  • Collector’s Guide: Doduo (Base Set #48)

    Collector’s Guide: Doduo (Base Set #48)

    Doduo (Base Set #48) Collector’s Guide

    Doduo

    Quick Facts

    Doduo from the Base set is a Basic, Colorless-type Pokémon card with 50 HP. It features a single attack, Fury Attack, which requires one Colorless Energy and deals 10 damage times the number of heads from flipping two coins. Doduo has a Fighting resistance (-30) and a Lightning weakness (×2). It has no retreat cost and no abilities. The card is illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita and is classified as Common rarity.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the exact printing of Doduo from the original Base set, card number 48. It is a Basic Pokémon with no evolutions from previous cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this card. Key identifiers include:

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 48
    • Rarity: Common
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Attack: Fury Attack (10× damage)

    The card’s regulation mark and release date are unknown. Its legality status is unknown.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of this vintage 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 to maintain its value and visual appeal.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original set where Doduo #48 was first printed. This set introduced many foundational Pokémon cards and remains highly collectible.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 48 Common 50 Mitsuhiro Arita

    Legality: unknown
    Image URL: /images/base1/base1-48.jpg

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    Doduo (Base Set) #48

  • Collector’s Guide: Poliwhirl (Base Set #38)

    Collector’s Guide: Poliwhirl (Base Set #38)

    Poliwhirl (Base Set #38) Collector’s Guide

    Poliwhirl

    Quick Facts

    Poliwhirl from the Base set is a Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon with 60 HP. It evolves from Poliwag and features two attacks: Amnesia, which disables one of the opponent’s attacks for their next turn, and Doubleslap, which deals variable damage based on coin flips. This card has a retreat cost of 1 and a Grass-type weakness (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as Uncommon rarity. The card’s legality status is unknown.

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 38
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • HP: 60
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Poliwag)

    Variants & Identifiers

    This exact printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code “base1” and card number 38. The card does not have a regulation mark or additional subtypes beyond Stage 1.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 38 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this Poliwhirl card:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
    – Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures to maintain card integrity.
    – Handle with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Poliwhirl #38 is part of the original Base set, featuring classic artwork by Ken Sugimori and foundational gameplay mechanics. This card is notable for its utility in disabling opponent attacks with Amnesia and its variable damage Doubleslap attack.

    Legality: unknown

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    Poliwhirl (Base Set) #38

  • Collector’s Guide: Porygon (Base Set #39)

    Collector’s Guide: Porygon (Base Set #39)

    Collector’s Guide: Porygon (Base Set #39)

    Porygon Base 39


    Quick Facts

    • Pokémon: Porygon
    • HP: 30
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Illustrator: Tomoaki Imakuni
    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 39/102
    • Weakness: Fighting (×2)
    • Resistance: Psychic (-30)
    • Retreat Cost: 1

    Porygon is a unique Basic Pokémon card from the original Base Set, notable for its low HP and utility-focused attacks. It has no abilities but features two attacks, Conversion 1 and Conversion 2, which allow strategic manipulation of the Defending Pokémon’s Weakness and Porygon’s Resistance, respectively.


    Key Printings

    This exact printing of Porygon appears solely in the Base Set, identified by the set code “base1” and card number 39. It is an Uncommon card illustrated by Tomoaki Imakuni, known for his distinctive art style in early Pokémon TCG releases.


    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Card Number: 39
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • Illustrator: Tomoaki Imakuni
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Basic
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Regulation Mark: None (Base Set predates regulation marks)
    • Print Variants: None documented for this exact printing
    • Legality: unknown

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this vintage Base Set card:

    • Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader or card saver.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the artwork and text.
    • Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
    • Handle by the edges to minimize fingerprints and surface wear.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Porygon #39 is part of the original 102-card Base Set released at the dawn of the Pokémon TCG. This set introduced many iconic Pokémon and gameplay mechanics. Porygon’s unique attacks reflect its digital, code-based nature, offering tactical options rather than raw power.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 39 Uncommon 30 Tomoaki Imakuni

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    Porygon (Base Set) #39

  • Collector’s Guide: Raticate (Base Set #40)

    Collector’s Guide: Raticate (Base Set #40)

    Collector’s Guide: Raticate (Base Set #40)

    Raticate


    Quick Facts

    • Pokémon: Raticate
    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 40
    • Rarity: Uncommon
    • HP: 60
    • Type: Colorless
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Rattata)
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Legality: unknown

    Raticate from the Base Set is a Stage 1 Colorless Pokémon known for its two attacks: Bite, dealing 20 damage for one Colorless energy, and Super Fang, which halves the opponent’s remaining HP rounded up to the nearest 10, costing three Colorless energies. It has a Fighting weakness (×2), Psychic resistance (-30), and a retreat cost of 1.


    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the original Base Set printing of Raticate, card number 40. This printing features classic Ken Sugimori artwork and the original Base Set layout. No release date is documented for this specific printing.


    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Code: base1
    • Subtypes: Stage 1
    • Print Variants: None documented
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Flavor Text: “It uses its whiskers to maintain its balance. It seems to slow down if they are cut off.”

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition of this vintage Base Set card:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
    – Maintain a stable, low-humidity environment to avoid warping.
    – Handle with clean hands or gloves to prevent oils and dirt transfer.


    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    Base Set

    Raticate #40 is a solid Stage 1 Colorless Pokémon with straightforward attacks and moderate HP. Its Super Fang attack is notable for its unique damage calculation, making it a strategic choice in early gameplay. This card is a staple of the original Base Set and reflects the classic design and mechanics of the era.


    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 40 Uncommon 60 Ken Sugimori

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    Raticate (Base Set) #40