The 10 Most Expensive Cards in Black & White

Zekrom (#114) has become something of a legend in the Pokémon TCG, commanding an impressive price tag of $134.94. Why the steep cost? Well, this Rare Ultra card isn’t just a pretty face; it embodies the competitive spirit of the set. Its artwork, created by the talented Mitsuhiro Arita, features Zekrom charging up its powerful Bolt Strike attack against a stormy backdrop, perfectly capturing its electric type’s essence. As for competitive relevance, Zekrom has been a staple in various decks thanks to its ability to deal significant damage and its synergy with energy acceleration strategies. Its price has steadily climbed since its initial release, proving itself not just a new release hype card but a long-term investment for serious players and collectors alike. Pull rates are relatively low, making it a chase card in packs. Personally, I think Zekrom's value will only continue to rise, making it a must-have for anyone serious about their collection.

Reshiram (#113) isn’t just the yin to Zekrom’s yang; it’s also a heavy hitter in the market, coming in at $123.63. Like Zekrom, it holds a prominent place in the competitive scene, often paired with cards that can exploit its blazing Fire-type moves. The artwork captures Reshiram in flight, exuding elegance as it unleashes its Blue Flare attack, thanks to the genius of artist Kagemaru Himeno. Collectors and players alike are drawn to its striking design and powerful place in the meta. Historically, Reshiram's price has demonstrated impressive stability, reflecting its ongoing demand both for play and collection. This card is not easily pulled from packs, adding to its allure and ensuring it's a target for many who open Black & White products. If you ask me, investing in Reshiram is like betting on a classic film — you can’t go wrong with a true icon.

Pikachu (#115) struts its stuff as a Rare Secret card and is lighting up the market at $98.25. This card isn’t just about nostalgia or cuteness; it’s a popular chase for collectors who want the 'Pikachu' feel-good factor in their collection. The artwork isn’t just adorable; it’s vibrant and dynamic, showcasing Pikachu in a heroic pose that embodies its status as the franchise mascot. Competitive play aside, this card is often seen as a collector’s piece due to its secret rarity; after all, who doesn’t want a little Thunderbolt action in their binder? The price on this card has been bouncing up and down, leading to some speculation on its true value. Its pull rates are tough, so if you get lucky in a pack, it’s like hitting a rare jackpot. As a proud Pikachu collector myself, I’d say this card is definitely one to snag before it shoots up even higher.

Zoroark (#71) might only be a Reverse Holofoil, but at $8.65, it packs a competitive punch. This Rare Holo card boasts a unique ability, 'Foul Play,' allowing it to use the opponent's attack against them, which has made it a sought-after card in many deck archetypes. The artwork, featuring Zoroark in a lush forest setting, is both mysterious and captivating, showcasing the artist's flair for creating an aura of intrigue. Its competitive relevance can’t be overstated; Zoroark has seen play in various formats and offers great versatility, making it a staple for many players. The market for Zoroark has shown some fluctuation, but it remains a solid pickup for both competitive players and collectors. Pull rates are decent, so it’s not exactly an easy find but far from impossible. If you’re looking to spice up your deck without breaking the bank, Zoroark is a wise investment.

Water Energy (#107) as a Common card might surprise you with its $8.29 price tag, but hey, water isn’t just wet; it’s essential! This energy card isn’t flashy, but it’s a staple in many decks, which explains its decent market value. The simple yet effective design features the classic Water-type symbol, making it a must-have for any competitive player utilizing Water Pokémon. Its price has held steady, reflecting its ongoing demand in the format. The pull rate for Water Energy is reasonably high, so you’ll likely find plenty in packs. However, the demand from players keeps its value surprisingly high. While it may not be the most exciting card to add to your collection, it’s a reminder that even the basics have their worth in the TCG ecosystem. A solid investment for anyone who wants to build a water deck.

Reshiram (#26), though it finds itself at $7.47 as a Reverse Holofoil, deserves its moment in the spotlight. This card features stunning artwork depicting Reshiram in all its glory, likely done by the renowned artist Mitsuhiro Arita. While its competitive play may vary compared to its Ultra Rare counterpart, it’s still a viable option in decks that capitalize on Fire-type strategies. The artwork is visually arresting, showcasing Reshiram surrounded by fiery elements, which fans love. Market interest for this card has been reasonable, and it has gained a following among collectors, especially those completing their Reshiram and Zekrom collections. Pulling this card isn't a walk in the park, making it a decent find in packs. If you're a collector or a fan of the legendary duo, consider adding this to your collection; it's an affordable way to snag a piece of history.

Maractus (#12) stands at a humble $6.72 as a Reverse Holofoil but don’t underestimate this spiky cactus! Known for its quirky design and unique moves, Maractus brings a fun element to the TCG. The artwork depicts this Grass-type Pokémon in a colorful dance, capturing its vibrant personality beautifully. Competitive relevance is modest at best, though it can find a niche in certain Grass-type decks. Its market value has remained stable, making it a decent pickup for collectors looking for something a bit off the beaten path. Pulling Maractus isn’t too hard, but its charm lies in its uniqueness. If quirky aesthetics are your jam, adding Maractus to your collection could brighten your day — it’s a conversation starter for sure!

Zekrom (#47) as a Reverse Holofoil comes in at $6.51, and while this might seem low compared to its Ultra Rare cousin, it still packs a punch. This card showcases Zekrom with an electrifying design that complements its fierce reputation in battle. It may not see as much competitive play as the higher-tier cards, but it's still cherished among collectors. The artwork is striking, showing Zekrom poised to unleash its power, done by the talented artist Mitsuhiro Arita, adding a layer of artistry to its value. The price for this card has been reasonably stable, making it a great find for those wanting a piece of Zekrom without the heavy investment. Pull rates are decent, adding to its accessibility. If you’re a fan of Zekrom, this card is an easy win — a solid addition to any collection without breaking the bank.

Sawsbuck (#14) rounds out the list at $6.29 as a Reverse Holofoil. While it may not be the flashiest card, it has a charming design that speaks to its seasonal theme. The artwork captures Sawsbuck in a beautiful autumn landscape, showcasing its Grass-type elegance. Competitive relevance is limited, but it does have a niche in certain Grass-type decks. Its market value has shown some fluctuations, but for collectors who appreciate its seasonal aesthetic, it’s a delightful addition. Pull rates are fair, meaning it's relatively easy to find, which is a plus for anyone looking to complete their set. If you appreciate the beauty of nature-inspired Pokémon, Sawsbuck is worth considering; it’s like the underdog of the set, quietly waiting for its time to shine.

Lightning Energy (#108) sits at $5.74 as a Common card, ready to spark conversations in any deck. While it may not have the flair of a Pokémon card, it’s a crucial component for many Electric-type strategies. The design is simple, featuring the classic Lightning symbol, which is iconic in its own right. Despite its low price point, its utility keeps it relevant in the market. Prices have stabilized around this range, reflecting its steady demand from players. Pulling this card is easy, so you’ll likely end up with a stack of them while hunting for the big hitters. While it may not be the most exciting card in your collection, it’s a reminder that sometimes the essentials are just as important as the stars of the show. Plus, who doesn’t love a good supporting role?