Top 10 Most Expensive Pokémon Cards: Illustration Rares in Today’s Market
The Pokémon card market has been experiencing major fluctuations, and collectors are keeping a close eye on illustration rares. These highly sought-after cards continue to rise in value, especially in PSA 10 condition. Below is an updated countdown of the top 10 most expensive cards currently making waves.
10. Cynthia's Garchomp ex - 232/182 - SV10: Destined Rivals (DRI)
This fan-favourite card featuring Cynthia’s Garchomp sits at around $216 on the market. In PSA 10 condition, it jumps significantly, often reaching close to $600.
9. Pikachu ex - 238/191 - SV08: Surging Sparks (SSP)
The beloved Pikachu takes the ninth spot with prices starting near $265 raw. Graded PSA 10 versions have seen a sharp increase, now commanding around $1,000. Collectors who invest in expensive cards often look at Pikachu as a safe bet.
8. Magikarp Illustration RareMagikarp - 203/193 - SV02: Paldea Evolved (PAL)
Despite its humble origins, Magikarp’s illustration rare is no joke in terms of value. It currently sells for about $266 raw, while PSA 10 copies fetch over $2,000.
7. Charizard ex - 234/091 - SV: Paldean Fates (PAF)
Charizard never fails to appear in top rankings. The Paldean Fates version is priced around $264 raw, with PSA 10 examples landing close to $900.
6. Charizard ex - 199/165 - SV: Scarlet & Violet 151 (MEW)
The Charizard from Pokémon 151 edges out its Paldean counterpart, valued at $274 raw. PSA 10s have recently been selling in the $1,100 range. Among Pokémon cards , this one is especially popular for longtime fans.
5. Sylveon ex - 156/131 - SV: Prismatic Evolutions (PRE)
At number five, Sylveon continues to enchant collectors. Raw prices hover around $300, while PSA 10 graded cards go for approximately $850.
4. Greninja ex - 214/167 - SV06: Twilight Masquerade (TWM)
Greninja has been climbing steadily, with raw copies recently surpassing $300. Some sales have reached $380, and PSA 10s are approaching the $1,000 mark, securing its place among today’s most expensive Pokémon cards
3. Team Rocket's Mewtwo ex - 231/182 - SV10: Destined Rivals (DRI)
This darker take on Mewtwo is a collector’s gem. Raw versions sell for around $353, while PSA 10s have been spotted at approximately $1,200. Expensive Pokémon cards like this one appeal to collectors who value nostalgia.
2. Mew ex - 232/091 - SV: Paldean Fates (PAF)
In second place, Bubble Mew has seen a major spike in value. Raw cards are now hitting $700, with PSA 10 versions climbing to $2,000, making it one of today’s most expensive Pokémon cards.
1. Umbreon ex - 161/131 - SV: Prismatic Evolutions (PRE) The most expensive Pokémon card
Topping the list is none other than Umbreon from Prismatic. Raw copies are valued at around $840, but the real story is in PSA 10s, with recent sales nearing $2,900. For many collectors, Umbreon represents the pinnacle of expensive Pokémon cards in today’s market, making it a centerpiece of any serious collection.
