The 10 Most Expensive Piplup Pokémon Cards
Piplup may seem like just another adorable Water-type Pokémon, but in the world of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, this little penguin has carved out a niche that's anything but ordinary. Its evolution into Empoleon often makes it a sought-after card for collectors, but the real magic happens when Piplup teams up with fan-favorite Pokémon like Blastoise. Spanning numerous sets, Piplup has appeared in a variety of rarities, from common to ultra-rare. The boom in pricing can be attributed to nostalgia, competitive play, and the ever-growing namesake of Pokémon itself, making these cards a blend of art, memory, and market value that drives collectors into a frenzy.
Browse every Piplup card ever printed
View all Piplup cards across every set with live prices
The Blastoise & Piplup-GX (Cosmic Eclipse #215) is a beautiful masterpiece, and at over $367.40, it’s not just a card — it's a statement piece. The rarity of this Rare Ultra card comes from its unique artwork that showcases the dynamic duo in an epic pose, appealing to collectors who want to showcase both nostalgia and competitive prowess. This card has been a chase item since its release, thanks to its high playability in competitive formats and strong synergy in decks. Seriously, it’s like the Avengers of the Pokémon TCG world.
Buy on TCGPlayer
Coming in hot at $94.16, the Blastoise & Piplup-GX (Cosmic Eclipse #253) Rainbow Rare version is like the unicorn of Piplup cards. Rainbow Rares always have that extra pizzazz, and this one is no exception. This card stands out with its iridescent shine and captivating artwork that pops with color. The demand for this card has skyrocketed due to its limited availability and its powerhouse potential in the meta, making it a must-have for serious collectors. It’s basically a double whammy of style and substance that makes wallets cry.
At $67.59, the Blastoise & Piplup-GX (Cosmic Eclipse #214) keeps the hype train rolling. This Rare Ultra version showcases similar stunning artwork to its counterparts but lacks the Rainbow treatment, making it more accessible yet still desirable. Its viability in tournaments helps maintain its value, as players continue to seek effective strategies featuring this duo. Simply put, if you're looking to dive into the competitive scene, this card is a solid investment that'll have you feeling like you're swimming in success.
You can snag the Blastoise & Piplup-GX (Cosmic Eclipse #38) for about $60.07, and let me tell you, this Rare Holo GX is a gem for collectors. Featuring classic holofoil, the card captures a vintage feel with a modern twist. The gameplay mechanics of this card keep it relevant, drawing in both competitive players and nostalgic collectors alike. It's like finding that perfect vintage record at a thrift shop — you know it’s worth way more than the price tag.
At $56.82, the Piplup (Cosmic Eclipse #239) Rare Secret card is an absolute steal. This card not only captures Piplup in a cute pose but also stands out as a secret rare, which means it was a sneaky addition to the set. Its rarity and the charming artwork give it collector appeal, while also appealing to players looking for a solid, competitive option. This card is the underdog of the Piplup family, quietly making waves while still being budget-friendly — for now!
The Piplup (Platinum #85) Reverse Holofoil is sitting at $24.95, and it's a piece of history. This card hails from the Platinum set, back when collectors were still figuring out the nuances of the TCG universe. Its reverse holofoil gives it a sleek look, while the nostalgic factor adds to its value. It’s a common card rarity, but the charm of this Piplup makes it quite the collector's item. It’s like digging up a classic video game; it may not be rare, but the nostalgia factor makes it priceless to you.
With a price tag of $19.95, the Piplup (Supreme Victors #121) Reverse Holofoil has its own unique charm. This card features adorable artwork that captures Piplup in a playful stance, appealing to collectors who love that cute factor. As a common card, it’s more accessible in terms of price, but its nostalgic value from the Supreme Victors set is what gives it a nice boost. It’s like that cute indie film you love that never got the attention it deserved — a hidden gem.
The Piplup (DP Black Star Promos #DP03) is priced at $18.97 and is a delightful promo card that captures the essence of early Pokémon TCG magic. Its holofoil finish and promotional status give it a unique edge among collectors. Promo cards often evoke fond memories for fans, and this one is no exception. It's a nostalgic blast from the past, perfect for anyone who wants to reminisce about their childhood battles. Plus, who doesn’t have a soft spot for promo cards? They’re like the limited edition flavor of your favorite ice cream.
The Piplup (POP Series 6 #15) comes in at $14.02 as a normal card, but don’t let that price fool you. This common rarity card is part of the popular POP Series, which holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors. The whimsical design and connection to the nostalgic POP Series events elevate its desirability. While the price is friendly to your wallet, its sentimental value can turn this card into a treasure for any Piplup fan.
Rounding out the list is the Piplup (Diamond & Pearl #93) Reverse Holofoil, priced at $13.38. Another common card, it may not break the bank, but its throwback to the Diamond & Pearl era makes it a must-have for die-hard fans. Its cute artwork and shiny finish make it stand out among the crowd, giving it a touch of charm that resonates with collectors. If you want to start your Piplup collection without breaking the bank, this card is the perfect entry point.
Now might just be the perfect time to dive into the world of Piplup cards. Prices are fluctuating, with some cards like the Blastoise & Piplup-GX seeing upticks while others are more stable. Keep an eye on emerging trends, especially with cards that have competitive viability — those tend to rise faster than prices on Netflix subscriptions. If you’re a collector, focus on unique artwork and rarity, which will likely hold their value better in the long term. Remember, it's not just about the price; it's about the joy of collecting and the memories attached to these aquatic cuties.
Prices last updated: April 9, 2026 at 10:26 PM UTC
Market prices sourced from TCGPlayer. Affiliate links may earn us a commission at no cost to you.
View all Piplup cards across every set →