The 10 Most Expensive Cards in Base

Blastoise is like that reliable friend who always shows up when you need them — except this friend costs over $192.04 if you want the holo version. Its price tag is a result of high demand and limited supply. This turtle powerhouse has been a fan favorite since day one, featuring iconic artwork by Ken Sugimori that showcases Blastoise firing off its Hydro Pump with a fierce determination. As for competitive play, this card made waves back in the day with its ability to power up your Water-type Pokémon quickly — a tactical advantage that never goes out of style. Over the years, Blastoise has seen its price fluctuate, yet it remains a stable long-term investment. If you’re lucky enough to pull this from a pack, you’ve hit the Pokémon lottery. But don't count on it; pull rates for holo cards in this set are notoriously low. My hot take? Owning this card is like owning a piece of Pokémon history — it's a must-have for any serious collector.

Venusaur, at $150.41, is the elegant grass dinosaur that often gets overshadowed by its more iconic brethren, but don’t let that fool you. This card’s price is a reflection of its rarity and the nostalgia factor for any player who started with Bulbasaur. The artwork, also by Ken Sugimori, captures Venusaur’s majestic bloom and ready-to-sling Solar Beam with a certain charm that calls back to simpler times. In terms of gameplay, while it isn't a staple in current meta decks, it still packs a nostalgic punch for anyone hoping to build a Grass-type deck. Historical prices have seen a steady uptick, especially as mint condition cards become increasingly rare. Pulling a Venusaur from a pack? You’re more likely to strike it rich in the lottery. My personal take? It's pure collector heat; this one is not just about the gameplay — it’s about connecting with your childhood dreams.

Mewtwo makes its grand appearance at $72.05, and honestly? Who wouldn't want this psychic powerhouse in their collection? This card commands its value due to its nostalgic significance and market demand — Mewtwo is essentially the face of Pokémon's lore. The artwork reflects its mysterious and powerful nature, showing off its psychic prowess in a striking way. As for competitive play, while it doesn't dominate current decks, it still sees its fair share of FOMO among collectors wanting to embrace that psychic nostalgia. Prices have fluctuated, but it remains a solid hold for those hoping Mewtwo will reignite its glory days. The pull rates for this holo version are decent, making it a sweet prize for anyone cracking open a Base pack. Let's face it: having Mewtwo in your collection feels like having the crown jewel of 90s Pokémon nostalgia.

Raichu, coming in at $61.67, is like that underrated indie band you wish more people appreciated. This beloved Electric-type Pokémon may not steal the spotlight, but its holo version is a serious collector's dream. The artwork showcases Raichu’s dynamic energy and cuteness, drawing in fans who remember the original series. While it’s not a competitive staple today, it holds a certain charm for nostalgia-driven players. Over the years, Raichu’s price has shown promise, climbing steadily as collectors seek out classic cards. The pull rates for Raichu holo are on par with other rares, so if you pull one, consider yourself lucky! My hot take? Raichu deserves more love; it’s a solid investment that could surprise you in the long run.

Alakazam, valued at $59.88, is the psychic powerhouse that deserves a place in every serious collector's binder. Featuring artwork that showcases Alakazam’s telekinetic prowess, it’s like an art piece you’d admire on a gallery wall. Its high price is a combination of nostalgia and its unique place in the competitive scene as a card that once dominated Psychic-type decks. Historically, prices have seen some ups and downs, but it’s been trending upward as collector interest spikes. Pull rates are pretty standard for holo cards, making it a feasible find in Base packs. My personal take? Alakazam is a power player; owning this card is like flexing your Pokémon knowledge at a trivia night. It’s not just a card; it’s a conversation starter.

Zapdos, sitting at $52.90, is the legendary bird that captures the hearts of fans everywhere. This card commands its price not only for its iconic status but also its striking artwork that features Zapdos in a fierce battle stance. Competitive play has had its ups and downs for Zapdos, but it was a stable choice for Lightning decks in its heyday. Over the last few years, its price has shown resilience, with collectors increasingly appreciating the nostalgia factor. Pulling a Zapdos from a pack is a thrill — the holo version is relatively rare. My hot take? Grab this card while you can; it’s a fan-favorite that might just soar in value as the years go on.

Chansey, priced at $48.79, is the cheerful pink blob that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Its market value is sustained by its rarity and the love players have for its role as a defensive wall in older formats. The artwork captures Chansey’s charm, with its adorable expression that can brighten anyone's day. It might not be a staple in the current meta, but it’s got a solid collector's following. Over time, Chansey’s price has held steady, making it a reliable investment for fans of the original cards. Pull rates are comparable to other holos, so you might just get lucky. My personal take? Chansey is a classic; acquiring one feels like a mini-victory in the Pokémon collecting game.

Gyarados, valued at $42.45, is the water-beast everyone loves to fear. Its melee might makes this card an iconic staple in TCG history. The artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita showcases Gyarados in all its fierce glory, making it a standout in any collection. This card finds its value in both nostalgia and competitive history, as it has seen play in various deck archetypes. Price-wise, Gyarados has shown resilience, maintaining steady interest among collectors. Pull rates for this card can be a bit tricky, so if you snag one, celebrate like you just caught a Legendary. My hot take? Gyarados is a classic powerhouse and will always hold a place in the hearts of fans — it’s not just a card, it’s an experience.

Nidoking comes in hot at $37.42, and let me tell you: this card is tougher than it looks. Its price is driven by nostalgia and collector demand, as it's often overshadowed by more prominent Pokémon. The artwork showcases Nidoking’s ferocity, bursting from the card with an almost 3D effect. While it may not see competitive play today, it holds a special place in the hearts of trainers who remember using it back in the original formats. Its price has had its fluctuations but remains a solid investment. Pulling a Nidoking from a pack is a nice surprise, but don’t bank on it being easy. My hot take? It’s a sleeper pick; grab it while it's still a steal.

Ninetales rounds out our list at $36.13, and let me tell you, this fiery fox is not just a pretty face. This card commands respect with its enchanting artwork that captures Ninetales in a fiery display. Its value comes from its rarity and the nostalgia factor for fans who loved its elegance in the anime. While Ninetales may not be the top performer in competitive decks today, its historical significance within the game gives it a solid collector's appeal. The price has been steadily climbing, indicating that folks are finally recognizing its value. Pulling a Ninetales from a pack is like finding a gem in a pile of coal — a delightful surprise! My personal take? This card is magical; it’s a must-have for any collection.