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Category: Collector’s Guide

  • Collector’s Guide: Clefairy (Base Set #5)

    Collector’s Guide: Clefairy (Base Set #5)

    Clefairy (Base Set #5) Collector’s Guide

    Clefairy Base Set #5

    Quick Facts

    Clefairy from the Base set (#5) is a Basic, Colorless-type Pokémon card with 40 HP. It features two attacks: Sing, which may put the Defending Pokémon to sleep, and Metronome, which copies one of the opponent’s attacks regardless of type but ignores energy costs and other requirements. This card has a retreat cost of 1, a Fighting-type weakness (×2), and Psychic resistance (-30). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as a Rare Holo.

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 5
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • HP: 40
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Legality: unknown

    Variants & Identifiers

    This exact printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code base1 and the card number 5. The card’s subtype is Basic, and it does not evolve from any other Pokémon.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 5 Rare Holo 40 Ken Sugimori

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this Rare Holo Clefairy 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 from damaging the holofoil surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: This Clefairy is part of the original Base set, known for its iconic artwork and foundational role in the Pokémon TCG. It is notable for its unique Metronome attack, which allows strategic copying of opponent attacks, making it a versatile card despite its low HP.

    Legality: unknown

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    Clefairy (Base Set) #5

  • Collector’s Guide: Gyarados (Base Set #6)

    Collector’s Guide: Gyarados (Base Set #6)

    Collector’s Guide: Gyarados (Base Set #6) Rare Holo

    Gyarados Base Set #6

    Quick Facts

    • Pokémon: Gyarados
    • Stage: Stage 1 (Evolves from Magikarp)
    • HP: 100
    • Type: Water
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 6/102
    • Legality: unknown

    Gyarados is a powerful Stage 1 Water-type Pokémon known for its high HP and strong attacks. It features two attacks: Dragon Rage, dealing 50 damage, and Bubblebeam, which deals 40 damage and has a chance to paralyze the opponent. It has a Fighting-type resistance (-30) and a Grass-type weakness (×2). The card’s flavor text highlights Gyarados’s rarity and destructive rage.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the original Base Set, identified by the set code “base1” and card number 6. It is a Rare Holo variant, featuring the classic holographic foil treatment on the Pokémon image. The artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita is iconic and highly regarded among collectors.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Set Code: base1
    • Card Number: 6
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Type: Water
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Resistance: Fighting (-30)
    • Weakness: Grass (×2)
    • Legality: unknown
    • Print Variants: None known for this exact printing

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the value and condition of this Rare Holo Gyarados card:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and rigid top-loader or card holder.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the holographic foil and card colors.
    – Avoid exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures.
    – Handle with clean hands to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original release featuring classic Pokémon cards. This Gyarados is a standout Stage 1 Water-type with strong attacks and a high HP pool, making it a sought-after card for collectors and nostalgic players alike.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 6 Rare Holo 100 Mitsuhiro Arita

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    Gyarados (Base Set) #6

  • Collector’s Guide: Hitmonchan (Base Set #7)

    Collector’s Guide: Hitmonchan (Base Set #7)

    Hitmonchan (Base Set #7) Collector’s Guide

    Hitmonchan Base 7

    Quick Facts

    Hitmonchan from the Base Set (#7) is a Fighting-type Basic Pokémon card featuring 70 HP. It has two attacks: Jab, dealing 20 damage for one Fighting Energy, and Special Punch, dealing 40 damage for two Fighting and one Colorless Energy. The card has a retreat cost of 2 and a weakness to Psychic-type attacks (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as a Rare Holo. The card’s flavor text reads:
    “While seeming to do nothing, it fires punches in lightning-fast volleys that are impossible to see.”

    The card’s legality status is unknown.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the original Base Set printing of Hitmonchan, card number 7. No additional print variants or reprints are noted for this exact printing.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Card Number: 7
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Stage: Basic
    • Type: Fighting
    • Subtypes: Basic
    • Weakness: Psychic (×2)
    • Retreat Cost: 2
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Print Variants: None reported

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the value and condition of this Rare Holo card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Avoid handling the card excessively to prevent wear on the holofoil surface and edges.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original core set that introduced Hitmonchan as a Fighting-type Basic Pokémon with solid attack options and a classic holofoil treatment. This card is a staple for collectors focusing on the foundational era of the Pokémon TCG.

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    Hitmonchan (Base Set) #7

  • Collector’s Guide: Dragonair (Base Set #18)

    Collector’s Guide: Dragonair (Base Set #18)

    Dragonair (Base Set #18) Collector’s Guide

    Dragonair

    Quick Facts

    Dragonair from the Base set is a Stage 1 Colorless-type Pokémon card with 80 HP. It evolves from Dratini and features two attacks: Slam, which deals 30 damage times the number of heads from flipping two coins, and Hyper Beam, which deals 20 damage and can discard an Energy attached to the Defending Pokémon. This card has a retreat cost of 2 and resistance to Psychic attacks (-30). It does not have any abilities or listed weaknesses.

    The card is illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita and is classified as Rare. Its flavor text describes Dragonair as “A mystical Pokémon that exudes a gentle aura. Has the ability to change climate conditions.”

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 18
    • Rarity: Rare
    • HP: 80
    • Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
    • Legality: unknown

    Variants & Identifiers

    This exact printing has no known print variants or regulation marks. It is identified by the set code base1 and card number 18. The card is part of the original Base set, making it a classic collectible for fans of early Pokémon TCG releases.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this Dragonair card:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and hard case to prevent edge wear and surface scratches.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid fading of the artwork and text.
    – Maintain a stable, low-humidity environment to prevent warping or moisture damage.
    – Handle with clean hands or use gloves to avoid oils and dirt transfer.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Dragonair #18 is a staple Stage 1 card from the original Pokémon TCG release. Its combination of moderate HP, versatile attacks, and Psychic resistance made it a useful card in early gameplay. The artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita is iconic and highly regarded among collectors.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 18 Rare 80 Mitsuhiro Arita

    Legality: unknown

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    Dragonair (Base Set) #18

  • Collector’s Guide: Machamp (Base Set #8)

    Collector’s Guide: Machamp (Base Set #8)

    Machamp (Base Set #8) Collector’s Guide

    Machamp Base #8

    Quick Facts

    Machamp from the Base Set (#8) is a Stage 2 Fighting-type Pokémon card with 100 HP. It features the Pokémon Power Strikes Back, which deals 10 damage to an attacking Pokémon whenever Machamp is damaged by an opponent’s attack, provided Machamp is not Asleep, Confused, or Paralyzed. Its sole attack, Seismic Toss, requires three Fighting Energy and one Colorless Energy to deal 60 damage. The card has a retreat cost of 3 and a weakness to Psychic-type attacks (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and is classified as a Rare Holo.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the original Base Set, one of the most iconic and sought-after sets in the Pokémon TCG. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a prized collectible for fans and players alike. The card evolves from Machoke and is notable for its combination of strong HP and a unique Pokémon Power that can retaliate against attackers.

    Variants & Identifiers

    There are no known print variants for this exact card. It can be identified by its set code base1-8, card number 8, and the Base Set symbol. The card’s rarity is Rare Holo, and it features the classic Ken Sugimori artwork.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the value and condition of this Machamp 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, especially the holographic area. Use a top loader or a card saver for additional protection during handling or display.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original launch set of the Pokémon TCG, featuring the first printings of many iconic Pokémon including Machamp. This set is highly collectible and marks the beginning of the Pokémon trading card phenomenon.

    Legality: unknown

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    Machamp (Base Set) #8

  • Collector’s Guide: Magneton (Base Set #9)

    Collector’s Guide: Magneton (Base Set #9)

    Collector’s Guide: Magneton (Base Set #9, Rare Holo)

    Magneton Base 9

    Quick Facts

    Magneton is a Stage 1 Lightning-type Pokémon evolving from Magnemite. This card features 60 HP and two attacks: Thunder Wave, which can paralyze the opponent’s active Pokémon, and Selfdestruct, dealing damage to all Pokémon on both players’ Benches but also inflicting heavy damage to Magneton itself. It has a Fighting-type weakness (×2) and a retreat cost of 1. The card is illustrated by Keiji Kinebuchi and is classified as a Rare Holo from the original Base set.

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 9
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • HP: 60
    • Illustrator: Keiji Kinebuchi
    • Legality: unknown

    Variants & Identifiers

    This exact printing has no known print variants. It is identified by the set code base1-9 and the card number 9 in the Base set. The card does not have a regulation mark.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the holofoil and card condition, store Magneton in a protective sleeve away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid bending or scratching the card surface, especially the holographic area. Use a top-loader or a binder with individual pockets for added protection.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Magneton #9 is part of the original Base set, notable for its classic artwork and foundational gameplay mechanics. This card’s combination of offensive and disruptive attacks makes it a memorable collectible from the early days of the Pokémon TCG.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 9 Rare Holo 60 Keiji Kinebuchi

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    Magneton (Base Set) #9

  • Collector’s Guide: Mewtwo (Base Set #10)

    Collector’s Guide: Mewtwo (Base Set #10)

    Collector’s Guide: Mewtwo (Base Set #10)

    Mewtwo Base 10

    Quick Facts

    Mewtwo from the Base set is a Basic Psychic-type Pokémon card with 60 HP. It features two attacks: Psychic, which deals 10 damage plus an additional 10 damage for each Energy attached to the Defending Pokémon, and Barrier, which allows you to discard a Psychic Energy to prevent all effects of attacks, including damage, done to Mewtwo during your opponent’s next turn. The card has a retreat cost of 3 and a weakness to Psychic-type attacks (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as a Rare Holo.

    • HP: 60
    • Type: Psychic
    • Stage: Basic
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Flavor Text: “A scientist created this Pokémon after years of horrific gene-splicing and DNA engineering experiments.”
    • Legality: unknown

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the original Base Set printing of Mewtwo, card number 10. This version is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and holofoil treatment, making it a sought-after card for collectors of vintage Pokémon TCG cards.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Set Code: base1
    • Card Number: 10
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Print Variants: None documented for this exact printing
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Legality: unknown

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this vintage holo card:

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

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original launch set of the Pokémon TCG, introducing iconic Pokémon like Mewtwo with classic artwork and simple yet strategic gameplay mechanics. This Mewtwo card is a cornerstone collectible from this foundational set.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 10 Rare Holo 60 Ken Sugimori

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    Mewtwo (Base Set) #10

  • Collector’s Guide: Nidoking (Base Set #11)

    Collector’s Guide: Nidoking (Base Set #11)

    Nidoking (Base Set #11) Collector’s Guide

    Quick Facts

    Nidoking from the Base Set (#11) is a Stage 2 Grass-type Pokémon card with 90 HP. It features two attacks: Thrash, which involves a coin flip to determine extra damage or self-inflicted damage, and Toxic, which poisons the opponent’s Pokémon with increased poison damage. The card has a retreat cost of 3 and a weakness to Psychic-type attacks (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as a Rare Holo.

    Key Printings

    This exact printing is from the original Base Set, identified by the set code “base1” and card number 11. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a desirable collectible for fans of the earliest Pokémon TCG releases.

    Variants & Identifiers

    • Set Name: Base
    • Card Number: 11
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Type: Grass
    • Stage: Stage 2 (evolves from Nidorino)
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Retreat Cost: 3
    • Weakness: Psychic ×2
    • Regulation Mark: None
    • Legality: unknown

    No alternate print variants are documented for this exact printing.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the condition and value of this Rare Holo Nidoking card:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and a rigid top-loader or binder.
    – 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.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Nidoking #11 is part of the foundational Pokémon TCG set, featuring classic artwork by Ken Sugimori and representing one of the original Stage 2 evolutions. Its Grass typing is unique compared to its usual Poison/Ground typing in other media.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 11 Rare Holo 90 Ken Sugimori

    Nidoking Base Set #11

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    Nidoking (Base Set) #11

  • Collector’s Guide: Ninetales (Base Set #12)

    Collector’s Guide: Ninetales (Base Set #12)

    Ninetales (Base Set #12) Collector’s Guide

    Ninetales Base Set #12

    Quick Facts

    Ninetales from the Base Set (#12) is a Fire-type Stage 1 Pokémon with 80 HP. It evolves from Vulpix and features two attacks: Lure, which allows switching an opponent’s Active Pokémon with one of their Benched Pokémon, and Fire Blast, a powerful 80-damage attack requiring discarding a Fire Energy card. The card has a retreat cost of 1 and a Water-type weakness (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as a Rare Holo.

    Key Printings

    This guide focuses on the original Base Set printing of Ninetales, identified by the set code “base1” and card number 12. It is a Rare Holo card, making it a sought-after collectible from the foundational Pokémon TCG series.

    Variants & Identifiers

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

    • Set Name: Base
    • Card Number: 12
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • Stage: Stage 1
    • Type: Fire
    • Weakness: Water (×2)
    • Retreat Cost: 1

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the value and condition of this Rare Holo card, store it in a protective sleeve and keep it away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Avoid bending or scratching the holofoil surface. Use a rigid top-loader or a graded card case for long-term storage.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: The original release that introduced Ninetales as a Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon with strong offensive capabilities. This card is notable for its classic Ken Sugimori artwork and its role in early competitive play.

    Legality

    The legality of this card is unknown.

    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 12 Rare Holo 80 Ken Sugimori

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    Ninetales (Base Set) #12

  • Collector’s Guide: Poliwrath (Base Set #13)

    Collector’s Guide: Poliwrath (Base Set #13)

    Poliwrath (Base Set #13) Collector’s Guide

    Poliwrath Base 13

    Quick Facts

    Poliwrath from the Base Set is a Stage 2 Water-type Pokémon with 90 HP. It evolves from Poliwhirl and features two attacks: Water Gun, which deals 30 damage plus additional damage based on attached Water Energy, and Whirlpool, which deals 40 damage and can discard an Energy card from the opponent’s Pokémon. This card has a retreat cost of 3 and a Grass-type weakness (×2). It is illustrated by Ken Sugimori and classified as a Rare Holo.

    Key Printings

    • Set: Base
    • Card Number: 13
    • Rarity: Rare Holo
    • Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
    • HP: 90
    • Stage: Stage 2
    • Type: Water
    • Legality: unknown

    Variants & Identifiers

    This specific printing of Poliwrath has no known alternate print variants. It is identified by the set code base1 and card number 13. The card’s holofoil treatment and Ken Sugimori’s classic illustration style are key visual identifiers.

    Care & Storage Tips

    To preserve the value and condition of this Rare Holo Poliwrath:
    – Store in a protective sleeve and hard case to prevent scratches and bending.
    – Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid fading of the holofoil and artwork.
    – Maintain in a cool, dry environment to prevent warping or moisture damage.
    – Handle with clean hands or gloves to avoid oils and dirt on the card surface.

    Set-by-Set Micro-summaries

    • Base Set: Poliwrath #13 is part of the original Base Set, known for its iconic artwork and foundational gameplay mechanics. This card exemplifies early Water-type strategies with its flexible Water Gun attack and disruptive Whirlpool move.
    set_name release_date number rarity hp illustrator
    Base 13 Rare Holo 90 Ken Sugimori

    Legality: unknown

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    Poliwrath (Base Set) #13