How Many Pikachu Illustrator Cards Exist?
The Pikachu Illustrator card is one of the rarest and most valuable Pokémon cards in existence. As a promotional card, it was only given to the winners of the 1997 and 1998 Pokémon Illustrator contests held in Japan. In this article, we will explore the history and rarity of the Pikachu Illustrator card, and answer the question: How many Pikachu Illustrator cards exist?
History of the Pikachu Illustrator Card
The Pikachu Illustrator card was created by Atsuko Nishida, the original designer of Pikachu, and was only produced in limited quantities. The card was awarded to the winners of the Pokémon Illustrator contests, which were held in Japanese magazine CoroCoro Comic between 1997 and 1998. The contests were designed to encourage young artists to submit their own Pokémon-inspired artwork, and the winners were awarded the exclusive Pikachu Illustrator card.
Rarity of the Pikachu Illustrator Card
The Pikachu Illustrator card is extremely rare, with only 41 copies in existence. The card is highly sought after by collectors and can fetch prices ranging from $400,000 to over $5,000,000 depending on its condition. In 2021, a PSA Grade 10 Pikachu Illustrator card sold for a record-breaking $5,275,000, setting a new world record for the most expensive Pokémon card sold in a private auction.
How Many Pikachu Illustrator Cards Exist?
As mentioned earlier, there are only 41 copies of the Pikachu Illustrator card in existence. The card was produced in limited quantities and was only awarded to the winners of the Pokémon Illustrator contests. Here is a breakdown of the rarity of the Pikachu Illustrator card:
- 41 copies in existence
- 10 copies are in PSA Grade 10 condition
- 15 copies are in PSA Grade 9 condition
- 16 copies are in PSA Grade 8 condition
- 0 copies are in PSA Grade 7 or lower condition
Table: Rarity of the Pikachu Illustrator Card
| Grade | Number of Copies |
|---|---|
| PSA 10 | 10 |
| PSA 9 | 15 |
| PSA 8 | 16 |
| PSA 7 or lower | 0 |
Conclusion
The Pikachu Illustrator card is one of the rarest and most valuable Pokémon cards in existence. With only 41 copies in existence, it is a highly sought-after collectible among Pokémon enthusiasts and collectors. Its rarity and value make it a true treasure for those who are lucky enough to own one. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, the Pikachu Illustrator card is a must-have addition to any Pokémon collection.