Author: Card Chill

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Most Expensive Pokémon Card 2025: Top 10 Record-Breakers & Market Kings!

The quest for the most expensive Pokémon card 2025 is a collector’s holy grail, with values soaring amid the Mega Evolution series hype and 30th anniversary buzz. While the Pikachu Illustrator PSA 10 remains the undisputed record holder at $5.275 million from a 2022 private sale (still the benchmark in 2025 auctions), modern chases like Mega Lucario ex SIR ($719 raw) and Umbreon ex SIR ($1,012) are closing the gap. At CardChill.com, we’ve compiled the top 10 most expensive Pokémon cards based on 2025 sales data from TCGPlayer, Heritage Auctions, PWCC, and Goldin—focusing on verified auctions and market prices as of November 2025. From trophy promos to first-edition legends, these cards define TCG luxury. Explore our Pokémon TCG sets for modern chases or Pokémon cards for pricing.

The Pikachu Illustrator Reigns Supreme: $5.275 Million Record

The Pikachu Illustrator PSA 10, a 1998 Japanese promo for CoroCoro Comics contest winners (only 39 printed), holds the throne. Logan Paul’s 2022 purchase set the record at $5.275 million (cash + trade), and 2025 auctions confirm no challengers—PSA 9s fetch $1-2 million, PSA 10s are untouchable. Its rarity (single-digit PSA 10s) and cultural icon status make it the ultimate grail.

Why 2025 Prices Are Skyrocketing

The TCG market hit $2.2B in 2024 (25% YoY growth), with 2025 fueled by Mega Evolution’s low-print SIRs, anniversary hype, and grading booms. Key drivers:

  • Auction Fever: Heritage/PWCC sales up 30%, with PSA 10s multiplying raw values 2-4x.
  • Modern vs Vintage: New sets like Phantasmal Flames SIRs ($450+) rival Base Set holos.
  • Scarcity: Pikachu Illustrator’s <100 copies ensure eternal demand.

Top 10 Most Expensive Pokémon Cards 2025 (Auction & Market Prices)

Ranked by 2025 sales records and current market value:

  1. Pikachu Illustrator PSA 10 ($5.275M) 1998 promo (39 printed). Logan Paul’s record sale; PSA 9s $1.5M+. Untouchable grail.
  2. 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard PSA 10 ($420K) Base Set holo. PWCC 2022 auction; 2025 sales $300K+.
  3. Topsun Charizard Blue Back PSA 10 ($493K) 1995 Japanese promo. Goldin 2025 sale; pre-TCG rarity.
  4. Trophy Pikachu No.1 Trainer PSA 10 ($3M) 1998 tournament promo (14 printed). eBay September 2025 PSA 9 $3M; PSA 10s rarer.
  5. Blastoise Wizards Prototype PSA 10 ($360K) 1998 test print. Sotheby’s 2025 sale; only 2 known.
  6. 1st Edition Base Set Charizard PSA 10 ($347K) 1999 holo. Fanatics 2024 sale; 2025 comps $300K+.
  7. Trophy Pikachu No.2 Silver PSA 10 ($440K) 1998 tournament. Goldin 2025 record.
  8. Snap Pikachu PSA 9 ($200K) 1999 contest promo (20 printed). Fanatics mid-2025 sale.
  9. Kangaskhan Trophy PSA 10 ($130K) 1998 Family Event. PWCC 2021 comp; 2025 $100K+.
  10. Master’s Key Trophy PSA 10 ($90K) 2010 Worlds promo. Heritage 2020 sale; 2025 $80K+.

2025 Auction Highlights Table

RankCardHighest 2025 SalePSA GradePrint Run
1Pikachu Illustrator$5.275M (2022 record)PSA 1039
21st Ed Shadowless Charizard$420KPSA 10~100
3Topsun Charizard Blue Back$493KPSA 10Unknown
4Trophy Pikachu No.1$3M (PSA 9)PSA 1014
5Blastoise Wizards Prototype$360KPSA 102

Investment Trends for Most Expensive Pokémon Cards

  • Vintage Dominance: Base Set/early promos hold 20% yearly gains; PSA 10s multiply 3x.
  • Modern Challengers: Mega Lucario ex SIR ($719 raw) up 25% monthly; PSA 10s $1,300+.
  • Auction Boom: Heritage/PWCC 2025 sales up 30%; Pikachu Illustrator comps $2M+ for PSA 9s.
  • Grading Impact: PSA 10s 4x raw; low pop (<100) cards surge 50%.

Risks: Fakes (1 in 50 resale); reprints dip modern 10%.

How to Hunt the Most Expensive Pokémon Cards

  1. Auction Houses: Heritage/PWCC for verified sales.
  2. Grading: PSA UK for 45-day turnaround.
  3. Modern Entry: Phantasmal Flames SIRs under $500 raw.
  4. Hold Strategy: 2-5 years for 100%+ returns.

The most expensive Pokémon card 2025 crown stays with Pikachu Illustrator, but modern Megas are closing fast. For listings, visit Pokémon TCG sets or Pokémon cards.

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Mega Rayquaza ex: The Legendary Dragon’s Triumphant Return to Pokémon TCG!

Mega Rayquaza ex is the ultimate fan-favorite Legendary Pokémon, and its storied history in the Pokémon TCG has left an indelible mark as one of the most powerful and iconic cards ever printed. First debuting in the XY era with its groundbreaking Δ Evolution mechanic, Mega Rayquaza ex revolutionized deck-building and dominated tournaments worldwide. From the aggressive bench-scaling attacks of its original prints to whispers of a modern revival in rumored 2026 sets like Emerald Surge or MEGA Dream ex, this Dragon/Flying behemoth continues to captivate collectors and players. At CardChill.com, we’re diving deep into Mega Rayquaza ex’s legacy, gameplay impact, card variants, and market value—explore our Pokémon TCG sets for related expansions or Pokémon cards for listings.

The Origins: Mega Rayquaza ex’s Explosive Debut in XY Era

Mega Rayquaza ex exploded onto the scene in XY—Roaring Skies (May 2015, Japan Emerald Break) and XY—Ancient Origins (August 2015), quickly becoming a meta-defining powerhouse. The card’s Δ Evolution Ancient Trait allowed immediate Mega Evolution from Rayquaza without counting as an Ability, bypassing opponent blocks. Its signature attack, Dragon Ascent, dealt 30 damage times the number of Benched Pokémon—up to 240 on a full bench! With 230 HP, Fairy Weakness, and 2 Retreat Cost, it was an aggressive glass cannon that forced opponents to spread benches thin.

  • Regular Print (Roaring Skies #61): Core attacker, illustrated by 5ban Graphics with soaring ozone art.
  • Full Art Print (Roaring Skies #105): Premium chase with dynamic wingspread, etching like modern Full Arts.
  • Ancient Origins #98: Mirror holo with identical effects, reprinted for accessibility.

The deck archetype “Mega Rayquaza EX” topped charts, winning 1st at 2016 Liverpool Regional and Top 8 at US Nationals 2016. Shaymin-EX draw, Sky Field stadium (6 benches), and Mega Turbo fueled T1 300-damage KOs.

Gameplay Legacy: The Deck That Broke the Meta

Mega Rayquaza ex decks were aggressive swarm strategies, benching 5-6 Pokémon (Sky Field) for massive Dragon Ascent hits. Key supports:

  • Shaymin-EX: Draw 6 on play.
  • Mega Turbo: Recycle Energies from discard.
  • Rayquaza-EX Basic: Free setup via Δ Evolution.

It defined 2015-2017 Standard, forcing bans in casual play and inspiring video game mechanics (Rayquaza’s Mega in ORAS). Reprints in Celebrations Classic Collection (2021) and Japanese Promo Pack 25th Anniversary kept it alive.

Card Variants & Modern Prints

  • XY Roaring Skies #61/108 (Regular): $10-20 raw; PSA 10 $100+.
  • XY Roaring Skies #105/108 (Full Art): $50-100 raw; PSA 10 $300+.
  • XY Ancient Origins #98 (Full Art): $20-40 raw; PSA 10 $150+.
  • Celebrations Classic Collection (Confetti Holo): $15-30 raw; PSA 10 $80+.
  • Japanese XY-D Mega Battle Deck #006/018: $30-50 raw.

No 2025 reprints yet, but rumors in MEGA Dream ex or Emerald Surge suggest a comeback.

Market Value & Investment Today

Mega Rayquaza ex remains valuable:

  • Regular Roaring Skies #61: $10-20 raw; PSA 10 $100-150.
  • Full Art #105: $50-100 raw; PSA 10 $300-500.
  • Ancient Origins Full Art #98: $20-40 raw; PSA 10 $150-250.
  • Celebrations: $15-30 raw; PSA 10 $80-120.

Trends: Up 20% YOY on Mega hype; PSA 10s appreciate 15% annually. Low pop (704 PSA 10s for Ancient Origins Full Art) ensures scarcity.

Future Hype: Rumored 2026 Revival?

Leaks suggest Mega Rayquaza ex in Emerald Surge (Japan January 23, 2026), with Delta Stream SIR and MA rarity. Z-A ties boost demand—expect $400+ raw SIR.

Mega Rayquaza ex is TCG royalty—powerful, iconic, timeless. For listings, visit Pokémon TCG sets

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Pokémon TCG 2026 Rumors Roundup: The Wildest Leaks & Speculations Lighting Up the Community!

The Pokémon TCG rumor mill is spinning faster than a Rayquaza in Delta Stream, especially after the MEGA Dream ex reveal! From TCGTracker’s viral X post to Japanese leakers like BLACKey, 2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year with leaks hinting at dual Hoenn sets, dark Tera twists, and anniversary gold. While nothing’s confirmed, these speculations—based on trademarks, sell sheets, and community buzz—are fueling endless debates on X and Reddit. At CardChill.com, we’re rounding up the craziest 2026 TCG rumors, from Mega Rayquaza ex god packs to “Eternals” reprints of Base Set holos. Buckle up for the speculation—explore our Pokémon TCG sets for confirmed previews or Pokémon cards for chases.

Rumor 1: Shadow Storm – Dark Tera Charizard ex & “Mega Darkrai” Chaos

Shadow Storm (or “Storm Shadow”) leads the pack as a Q1 2026 Japan mainline set (English Q2), per TCGTracker’s September 29 post (86K views). Leaks tie it to Dark Tera Charizard ex (Horizons’ DARKTERA0006 promo), with a rumored Mega Darkrai ex debuting Nightmare Aura (opponent discards per turn). X users speculate 180 cards with 50+ secrets, including Shadow Lugia VSTAR reprints and “Shadow Attack Rares” (comic “BAM!” MAs). BLACKey’s October 1 tweet (297K views) confirms “シャドー ストーム” trademarks, hinting at Dark/Fairy duality. Reddit r/PokeLeaks (400 upvotes) calls it “Darkrai-led god pack central.” Craziest bit: Bilingual MA text (English cards with Japanese attacks). Investment angle: Scalp-proof Dark meta = 40% ROI on boxes.

Rumor 2: Emerald Surge (Storm Emeralda) – Mega Rayquaza ex & Zygarde Core Form Storm

PokeBeach’s October 27 report confirms Storm Emeralda (M3, first 2026 major set) starring Mega Zygarde ex (Dragon/Ground core form, Thousand Arrows 150 + Paralyze), launching January 23 Japan (English March-April). Trademarks from June 2025 point to Mega Rayquaza ex (Delta Stream SIR with emerald ozone storm), with 180-200 cards and god packs. X buzz (TCGTracker 822 likes) speculates Hoenn/Unova ties: “Rayquaza + Zygarde = dream duo!” Community on X (Poke Pullz, 4K views) loves the MA rarity continuation. Craziest speculation: Bilingual attacks for global appeal. Market: 50% ROI on JP arbitrage ($130 box → $180 English resale).

Rumor 3: Legendary Dreams – “Mega 151” with Z-A Legendary Megas

Legendary Dreams (ME2.5 special set) is rumored as a mid-2026 “catch-up” pack with Z-A Megas like Mega Mewtwo Y ex (Psystrike MA “BAM!”) and Mega Latios ex (Mist Ball). TCGTracker’s list (740 likes) positions it post-Phantasmal Flames, with X speculation on “dream shine” holos and stamped reprints. French site Lorenzone.fr calls it “probable” with 100-150 cards. Reddit r/PokeLeaks debates “Mega Mewtwo god pack” (400 upvotes). Craziest: Stamped Base Set Legends for anniversary. Investment: 60% sealed ROI like 151.

Rumor 4: Radiant Ruby & Shining Sapphire – Shiny Hoenn Dual Set with Primal Duo

Radiant Ruby / Shining Sapphire leaks as a Q3 2026 dual mainline, reviving Hoenn with shiny Groudon ex (Radiant gold hyper) and Kyogre ex (Shining silver hyper). TCGTracker’s post sparks “shiny Hoenn 151” theories (86K views), tying to ORAS 10th anniversary. BLACKey confirms trademarks, with PokeBeach speculating Mega Rayquaza ex SIRs. Reddit debates “shiny Rayquaza god pack” (400 upvotes). Craziest: Radiant (gold) Ruby, Shining (silver) Sapphire hypers; 150 cards each. Market: 200% sealed growth like 151.

Rumor 5: Eternals – 30th Anniversary “VSTAR Universe 2.0” with Stamped Classics

Eternals (エターナルズ) caps the leaks as the February 27, 2026 anniversary special, speculated as “VSTAR Universe 2.0” with stamped Base Set holos, Pikachu Illustrator minis, and eternal hyper rares. TCGTracker’s post (740 likes) and r/PokeLeaks (400 upvotes) buzz “Base Set reprints!” X trends “Eternals god pack.” Size: 100-150 cards, box set. Craziest: Holo Pikachu with “1996-2026” stamp. Investment: 150% sealed like Celebrations.

Release Roadmap & Market Speculation

  • Japan Q1-Q3 2026: High Class Packs for Storm Emeralda/Shadow Storm.
  • English Q2-Q4: Dual mainline + specials.
  • Investment: JP arbitrage 38% profit; anniversary Eternals 50-80% ROI.

2026 Rumor Release Table

Rumor SetJapan Est.English Est.MSRP Booster BoxProjected ROI
Shadow StormQ1 2026Q2 2026$144.9940%
Emerald SurgeJan 23, 2026Mar-Apr 2026$144.9950%
Legendary DreamsQ2 2026Q3 2026$49.99 (special)60%
Radiant Ruby/SapphireQ3 2026Q4 2026$144.99 (dual)200%
EternalsJan 2026Feb 27, 2026$49.99 (anniv)150%

Community Hype: Rumors Fueling 2026 Fever

TCGTracker’s post (740 likes, 86K views) and r/PokeLeaks debates (400 upvotes) ignite X—”Mega Rayquaza + Zygarde dual god pack!” Fans dream of “shiny Hoenn 151” and “Base Set stamped holos.”

These 2026 rumors promise Mega/Z-A thrills. For confirmed sets, visit Pokémon TCG sets or Pokémon cards.

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Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Ascended Heroes Pokémon Center ETB: Contents, Double N’s Zekrom Promos, Release Date & Preorder Guide

Exclusivity alert, trainers – the Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution—Ascended Heroes Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box (PC ETB) is the crown jewel of 2026’s hottest special set! Launching February 20, 2026, this Pokémon Center exclusive cranks the value to 11 with 11 booster packs, two full-art foil N’s Zekrom promo cards (one stamped with the iconic PC logo!), premium accessories, and a collector’s box primed for glory. While the standard ETB sticks to 9 packs and one promo, this beast amps it up for die-hards chasing that stamped chase. At an estimated $59.99 MSRP, it’s your portal to over 290 cards starring 13 Mega Pokémon ex like Mega Dragonite ex, Trainer’s Pokémon revivals, and SIR wallet-melters from Japan’s MEGA Dream ex. Preorders are seconds away – dive into why this PC ETB will vanish faster than a Mega Rayquaza!

What to Expect from Mega Evolution—Acsended Heroes

Ascended Heroes reignites Mega Evolution fever with Mega Dragonite ex as mascot, alongside 12 more Megas, 6 Tera ex, 20 Pokémon ex, over 30 Trainers, 33 Illustration Rares, 22 SIRs, and 7 Mega Attack Rares in katakana flair. Booster packs boast 90s silhouette art of Dragonite, Charizard Y, Pikachu, and Mewtwo. Meta bombs? N’s Zekrom (your double promo hero), N’s Vanilluxe, Rocket’s Mewtwo, and Night Mine Stadium could shatter Tera decks. Leaks hype Mega Gengar ex SIR, Cynthia’s Spiritomb AR, and Psyduck AR memes – 11 PC ETB packs mean god-tier odds!

Inside the Pokémon Center ETB: Full Contents Breakdown

This exclusive ETB is stacked for collectors and competitors. Precise contents straight from Pokémon.com:

ItemDetails
Booster Packs11 Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution—Ascended Heroes boosters – elevated SIR/Gold Hyper hunting vs. standard’s 9!
Promo Cards2 full-art foil N’s Zekrom – one standard, one with exclusive Pokémon Center logo stamp!
Card Sleeves65 premium sleeves (Mega Dragonite-themed art expected).
Energy Cards40 Pokémon TCG Energy – power your ascensions.
Player’s GuideOfficial guide to the expansion – card breakdowns and strategies.
Damage Dice6 metallic damage-counter dice.
Coin-Flip Die1 competition-legal die.
Plastic Coin1 custom coin (Trainer’s Pokémon flips?).
Collector’s BoxSturdy box with 6 dividers – pro deck storage.
Code Card1 PTCG Live code – go digital!

Box art spotlights Mega Dragonite soaring, with PC flair for that premium vibe – $150+ pack value alone!

Spotlight: Double N’s Zekrom Full-Art Foil Promos – The PC Chase Duo

The stars? Two N’s Zekrom full-art foils – one classic illus rare-style thunder lord, and one stamped PC exclusive! This Trainer’s Pokémon unleashes Bolt Strike chaos, synergizing with coin-flips and Stellar Pikachu for 450+ damage. Artwork: Stormy skies crackling, N’s intensity – the stamped version is instant $30+ resale gold, rarer than standard ETB’s single copy. Deck-builders, double up for mirrors!

Accessories & Features: Pokémon Center Premium Perks

PC ETB elevates with 65 sleeves for SIR protection, 6-divider box ($20 value), tournament dice/coin, and 40 Energy for instant plays. PTCG Live code syncs worlds. Exclusive stamp screams flex – perfect for Regionals or display. Compared to standard: +2 packs, +1 promo = ultimate upgrade!

Pull Potential: 11 Packs of Mega Glory

11 boosters = pull paradise! Hunt Mega Charizard Y ex (#22) English swap, Mega Gengar ex SIR (#284) purple phantom, Mega Hawlucha ex, Rayquaza, and Gold Hypers. MEGA Dream ex leaks (193+ cards) promise Mega Scrafty ex brawlers and Team Rocket’s Exeggutor flips – expect $75-150+ EV per box on chases. No loose packs? PC ETB delivers curated fire!

Full Product Lineup: PC ETB in the Staggered Wave

PC ETB headlines Wave 2 exclusives:

ProductReleasePacksKey FeaturesMSRP
Collections (Erika/Larry)Jan 302Foil promo, coin$9.99
Tech Sticker (Charmander/Gastly)Jan 303Sticker sheet$15.99
ETB (Standard)Feb 209Single N’s Zekrom$49.99
Pokémon Center ETBFeb 2011Double N’s Zekrom (1 stamped)~$59.99
Mini Tins (5 designs)Feb 202Sticker/art card$9.99
Poster CollectionsMar 2010Mega Lucario/Gardevoir$49.99
Booster BundleApr 246Packs only$26.94

PC version crushes for whales!

Rumors & Leaks: PC ETB Hype Explodes

Leaks confirm stamped N’s Zekrom scans – holofoil glory with PC logo! Japan’s MEGA Dream ex cracks November 28; PC ETB box reveals tease Dragonite dominance. Whispers: 11 packs = highest in set, resale $120+ sealed like 151 PC. Preorder frenzy incoming!

Preorders, Availability & Pro Tips

Pokémon Center exclusive – preorders drop imminently online/in-store (US/UK). Sells out in hours! Tips: One-per-customer; bundle with Collections for 13+ packs Day 1. LGS events for sealed pulls. Budget $70; scalp risk: $100+.

Why the Ascended Heroes PC ETB Will Dominate Your Collection

For $59.99, snag 11 packs + double stamped promos – unmatched value fueling Tier 1 Zekrom decks and god binders. Bridging Scarlet & Violet to Legends: Z-A, it’s 2026’s pinnacle grab. Secure yours – Mega ascension exclusive! Who’s doubling Zekrom?

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Best Pokémon Cards to Collect in 2025: Top 10 Must-Haves for Fans & Investors

The Pokémon TCG scene is exploding in 2025, with the Mega Evolution series launch catapulting sets like Phantasmal Flames and Prismatic Evolutions to new heights. Whether you’re a fan filling binders with stunning artwork or an investor eyeing 30-50% ROI, knowing the best Pokémon cards to collect in 2025 is key. From Eeveelution SIRs in Prismatic Evolutions to Unova BWRs in Black Bolt/White Flare, these cards blend nostalgia, rarity, and meta power. At CardChill.com, we’ve sifted TCGPlayer’s latest data, collector trends, and expert picks (like Beckett’s 2025 highlights) to rank the top 10. Modern chases like Umbreon ex SIR ($1,012) dominate, while classics like Base Set Charizard hold steady. Explore our Pokémon TCG sets for previews or Pokémon cards for listings.

Why 2025 Is the Perfect Year to Collect Pokémon Cards

The TCG market hit $2.2B in 2024 (up 25% YoY), with 2025 fueled by Mega Evolution’s low-print SIRs (1:216 pulls) and the 30th anniversary hype. Prismatic Evolutions’ Eevee focus and Black Bolt/White Flare’s Unova revival are collector magnets, with SIRs appreciating 20% monthly. Nostalgia drives vintage (Base Set Charizard up 30%), while modern chases like Mega Lucario ex ($719) offer quick flips. Low Wave 1 prints mean scarcity, but reprints stabilize prices—buy now for peak value.

Top 10 Best Pokémon Cards to Collect in 2025

Ranked by current raw value and growth potential (TCGPlayer, November 2025), these are the must-collects:

  1. Umbreon ex SIR from Prismatic Evolutions ($1,012) Dark Stellar Tera ex – Eevee hype meets ethereal SIR art. Up 50% since January; PSA 10s at $1,800+. The ultimate modern showpiece.
  2. Mega Lucario ex SIR from Mega Evolution ($719) Fighting Mega ex – Aura-flared SIR art dominates binders. 25% monthly surge; meta king for collectors and players alike.
  3. Shiny Charizard ex from Paldean Fates ($312) Fire Shiny ex – Black-scale SIR glows with Charizard appeal. 28% growth; an evergreen fan favorite.
  4. Mew ex SIR from Paldean Fates ($654) Psychic Shiny ex – Mythical SIR with psychic aura. 35% since launch; perfect for anniversary collections.
  5. Greninja ex SIR from Twilight Masquerade ($354) Water/Dark ex – Ninja starry SIR art. 25% yearly rise; meta ninja with stunning visuals.
  6. Pikachu ex SIR from Surging Sparks ($331) Electric ex – Tropical SIR with starry backdrop. 35% ROI potential; Pikachu never goes out of style.
  7. Victini BWR from White Flare ($423) Fire ex – Monochromatic BWR art + Unova revival. 40% ROI; a nostalgic masterpiece.
  8. Lillie’s Clefairy ex SIR from Journey Together ($156) Fairy ex – Alolan nostalgia sleeper. 45% ROI; budget-friendly with heart.
  9. Raging Bolt from Temporal Forces ($68) Electric/Dragon ex – Ancient storm SIR. 40% ROI; meta riser with epic artwork.
  10. Squirtle SIR from Stellar Crown ($80) Water illustration rare – Kanto Terastal starter. 50% ROI; the best budget collectible.

2025 Collection Strategy Table

CardRaw Price+ Since LaunchMonthly GainProjected 2026
Umbreon ex SIR$1,01250%+4%$1,315
Mega Lucario ex SIR$71925%+5%$1,078
Mew ex SIR$65435%+3%$850
Shiny Charizard ex$31228%+4%$450
Greninja ex SIR$35425%+5%$500

How to Build Your 2025 Collection: Step-by-Step

  1. Start with Budget SIRs Under $200 Grab Squirtle ($80) or Raging Bolt ($68) from Wave 1 shortages.
  2. Prioritize Artwork & Nostalgia Focus on Eevee, Charizard, and Unova themes for long-term appeal.
  3. Grade PSA 10 for Display Even non-investors love a slab—doubles visual impact and value.
  4. Diversify Your Binder
    • 50% Modern SIRs (Prismatic, Mega)
    • 30% Nostalgia (Paldean Fates, White Flare)
    • 20% Budget Sleepers (Journey Together, Stellar Crown)
  5. Join the Community Trade locally or on Discord—complete sets faster.

Final Verdict: Collect What You Love, Win Big

The best Pokémon cards to collect in 2025 are modern SIRs under $500 with art, nostalgia, and meta power. Top fan pick: Umbreon ex SIR ($1,012) – pure beauty. Top budget pick: Squirtle SIR ($80 → $120) – starter magic.

Don’t wait—Wave 1 is flying off shelves.

Ready to start? 👉 Grab Squirtle SIR at Pokémon cards

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Pokémon TCG “Eternals”: 30th Anniversary Special Set Leak – Eternal Classics Reborn in 2026!

he Pokémon TCG rumor mill is buzzing with “Eternals” (エターナルズ), a highly anticipated 30th anniversary special set rumored for February 27, 2026 to celebrate Pokémon’s birthday! Capping TCGTracker’s viral September 29 X post (86K views, 740 likes), Eternals is listed alongside Shadow Storm, Emerald Surge, Legendary Dreams, and Radiant Ruby/Shining Sapphire as the anniversary crown jewel. Japanese leakers like BLACKey (297K views) confirm the trademark, speculating a “VSTAR Universe 2.0” with stamped reprints of “eternal” classics like Base Set holos and Pikachu Illustrator minis. While unconfirmed, the timing aligns perfectly with the 30th milestone. At CardChill.com, we’re unpacking the leaks, speculated contents, and hype—explore our Pokémon TCG sets for previews or Pokémon cards for chases.

Leak Breakdown: TCGTracker’s Viral List & Anniversary Timing

TCGTracker’s post positioned Eternals as the 30th anniversary special, sparking massive engagement. BLACKey’s Japanese update hints at “永遠のカード” (eternal cards), tying to reprints of timeless icons. X reactions explode with “Base Set stamped holos!” while Reddit r/PokeLeaks (400 upvotes) debates a box set format like Celebrations but bigger. PokeBeach forums speculate post-MEGA Dream ex (Japan November 28), aligning with February 27 global birthday.

Speculated Contents: Stamped Classics & Eternal Hyper Rares

Leaks suggest:

  • Stamped Reprints: Base Set Charizard, Pikachu Illustrator mini, VMAX like Umbreon VMAX with “1996-2026” stamps.
  • Eternal Rarities: Gold/silver “Eternal” hyper rares, 50+ secrets/god packs.
  • Anniversary Promos: Holo Pikachu with birthday motif, Mewtwo VSTAR stamped.
  • Size: 100-150 cards, special box ($49.99 MSRP).
  • Tie-Ins: Mega reprints like Rayquaza ex for Z-A synergy.

Fans speculate “Eternals Gallery” with Radiant Pokémon arts.

Release Speculation: Japan January 2026, English Anniversary Drop

  • Japan: January 2026 High Class Pack (¥5,500/box).
  • English: February 27, 2026 special set (Blisters/ETBs, $49.99 MSRP).
  • Pricing: JP boxes $130-150 USD; English Wave 1 scalped $220+.

2026 Anniversary Release Table

SetJapan ReleaseEnglish ReleaseMSRP Booster BoxProjected Scalp Week 1
EternalsJan 2026Feb 27, 2026$49.99 (special)$80+
Shadow StormMar-Apr 2026May-Jun 2026$144.99$220+

Market Impact: Anniversary Investment Explosion

Eternals could rival Celebrations’ 150% sealed growth—stamped Base Set Charizard $500+ raw. JP arbitrage $130 → $180 English resale (38% profit). Anniversary boosts 25-40%.

Speculated CardRaw Price EstPSA 10 Est12-Mo ROIWhy Buy
Stamped Base Charizard$500$1,00050%Nostalgia king
Eternal Umbreon VMAX$300$60040%Modern classic
Pikachu Anniversary Promo$150$30035%Mass appeal

ommunity Hype: Anniversary Fever Explodes

TCGTracker’s post (740 likes) and r/PokeLeaks debates “Pikachu Illustrator mini!” (400 upvotes). X trends “Eternals god pack.”

Eternals rumors promise anniversary magic. For confirmed sets, visit Pokémon TCG sets