The most expensive Pokémon card ever sold is the Pikachu Illustrator, a legendary promotional card from 1998 that has become the ultimate holy grail for Pokémon collectors. With only a handful known to exist and one achieving a record-setting sale price, this card sits at the top of Pokémon TCG history.

What Is the Pikachu Illustrator Card?

The Pikachu Illustrator card was awarded to winners of the CoroCoro Comic Illustration Contest in Japan in 1998. Unlike standard Pokémon cards, it was never sold in packs, making it significantly rarer than even first-edition base set cards.

Key characteristics include:

• The card title reads “Illustrator” instead of “Trainer”

• Unique artwork by Pikachu’s original illustrator

• Gold-colored trophy-style border

• Japanese-only release

How Much Is the Pikachu Illustrator Card Worth?

In a historic private sale, a PSA 10 (Gem Mint) Pikachu Illustrator card sold for approximately $5.275 million, making it the most expensive Pokémon card ever sold.

This specific card gained worldwide attention after being purchased by Logan Paul, who later wore it publicly at a major boxing event, further cementing its place in pop-culture history.

Why Is the Pikachu Illustrator So Valuable?

Several factors contribute to its unmatched value:

Extreme Rarity

• Fewer than 40 copies are believed to exist

• Even fewer are professionally graded

• Only one known PSA 10 example

Historical Significance

• One of the earliest Pokémon promotional cards

• Represents the artistic origins of the Pokémon franchise

• Awarded for creativity, not gameplay or purchases

Condition and Grading

• High-grade Pokémon cards exponentially increase in value

• PSA 10 status makes it a true one-of-one collector’s item

Other High-Value Pokémon Cards (For Comparison)

While none come close to the Pikachu Illustrator, other notable high-value cards include:

• 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard (Base Set)

• Trophy Pikachu cards

• Kangaskhan Parent/Child Tournament promo

• No. 1 Trainer cards

These cards typically sell for hundreds of thousands to over $1 million, depending on condition.

Is the Pikachu Illustrator the Most Valuable Pokémon Card Today?

Yes. As of now, no Pokémon card has surpassed the Pikachu Illustrator’s $5.275 million sale price. It remains the definitive benchmark for Pokémon card value and a symbol of the hobby’s explosive growth.

Final Thoughts

The Pikachu Illustrator card is more than just a trading card — it’s a piece of gaming history. Its rarity, cultural importance, and flawless condition have made it the most expensive Pokémon card ever, and it’s unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon.