The 10 Most Expensive Cards in Brilliant Stars
Released in February 2022, Brilliant Stars ushered in a new era for the Pokémon Trading Card Game, blending nostalgia with the growing emphasis on Collector's items. This set introduced the beloved VSTAR mechanic, which allowed Pokémon to unleash devastating moves while boasting a unique card design. Themes of Arceus and the legendary Pokémon permeate the set, and it features some of the most sought-after cards in recent history. Collectors and players alike have flocked to Brilliant Stars in search of both competitive staples and stunning collector pieces. With a mix of powerful Pokémon and beautifully illustrated trainers, it's no wonder that this set has become a staple in many players' collections. The market has seen a rollercoaster of prices, especially for the Charizard cards, which have always held a special place in the hearts of fans. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the top ten most expensive cards from Brilliant Stars and unpack what makes them top contenders in both gameplay and collectability.
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Charizard V
#154 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

The Charizard V (#154) is the heavyweight champ of Brilliant Stars, commanding a hefty $293.75. Its price stems from a perfect storm of supply and demand — every collector dreams of snagging a Charizard for their collection. Illustrated by the talented artist aky CG, this card's artwork captures Charizard soaring through a vibrant sky, flames swirling in a fiery dance. It’s visually striking, evoking feelings of nostalgia and awe. From a competitive perspective, this card finds its place in various fire-type decks, thanks to its 'Burning Breath' attack that can deal a massive 220 damage. Historically, Charizard cards have seen an insane price trajectory; this one is no exception, climbing steadily since its release. Pull rates are a bit disappointing, with only one Charizard V appearing in roughly every 70 packs, making it a coveted chase card. Honestly? If you pull this, you might just want to frame it instead of playing it.
Charizard VSTAR
#174 · Rare Rainbow · Holofoil
Market Price

Following closely is the Charizard VSTAR (#174), currently priced at $71.92. This card's allure lies in its powerful VSTAR mechanic, allowing it to unleash attacks that can flip the tide of a match. The artwork, crafted by the renowned artist Mitsuhiro Arita, showcases Charizard with an epic fiery backdrop that makes it a true eye-catcher. Competitive players flock to this card for its 'Star Blaze' attack, which can obliterate opponents for 320 damage if you’re willing to sacrifice two energy cards. The card has been a mainstay in many competitive decks, solidifying its place in the meta. Price-wise, it’s seen significant fluctuations, but its value remains strong as collectors and players vie for it. The pull rates are modest; about one in every 60 packs. If you’re thinking about grabbing one, expect your wallet to feel a little lighter, but it’s well worth it.
Arceus V
#166 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Arceus V (#166) stands strong in our lineup, priced at $52.97. This card commands respect not only for its artwork but also for its competitive viability. Illustrated by the talented artist Kawayoo, Arceus exudes a celestial vibe, radiating power and mystery. The 'Trinity Charge' ability lets you search your deck for three basic energy cards, making it a backbone of many decks in the current meta. While it may not have the chase factor of Charizard, its utility keeps demand robust. The historical price of this card has been stable, with some fluctuations due to its role as a competitive staple. With decent pull rates of around one in 50 packs, it's definitely a card you want to keep an eye on. If you’re assembling a deck, snagging one of these is a no-brainer.
Charizard V
#153 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Another Charizard makes the list in the form of Charizard V (#153), currently valued at $29.33. While it lacks the hype of its Ultra counterpart, this version still has strong collector appeal. The artwork, again by aky CG, features Charizard in a fierce battle stance, captivating fans with its dynamic pose. Though not as competitive as its VSTAR sibling, it does see play in fire-type decks, providing solid damage output. The historical context shows that while it has dipped slightly since release, it remains a fan favorite. Pull rates are slightly better than the VSTAR version, making it a bit more accessible for collectors looking to chase that Charizard dream. It may not break the bank, but it can definitely elevate your collection. If you’re a Charizard lover, this one is a must-have, even if it might not set you back too much.
Ultra Ball
#186 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

The Ultra Ball (#186) is not your typical trainer card; it’s priced at $19.85, thanks to its status as a Rare Secret card. This card has been a powerhouse in competitive play, serving as a key component in many top-tier decks. The artwork, crafted by the talented artist 5ban Graphics, features a stunning holographic design that elevates its aesthetic appeal. Its ability to search your deck for any Pokémon is invaluable, contributing to its high demand. Over time, this card's price has held firm, reflecting its consistent presence in the meta. The pull rates for this card are decent, making it a reasonable target for those opening packs. If you want a card that’s both useful in gameplay and collectible, adding this one to your portfolio is a smart move.
Pikachu V
#157 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

At $17.77, Pikachu V (#157) is a heart-stealer! It captures the iconic Pikachu in its classic, electrifying pose, beautifully illustrated by 5ban Graphics. This card appeals to collectors and casual players alike, thanks to its charming artwork. In gameplay, however, it lacks the competitive edge of the top-tier Pokémon, serving more as a fun addition to Pikachu-themed decks. It's seen a gentle upward trend in pricing since release, maintaining its value as both a collector's item and a casual play card. Pull rates are reasonable, making it a common find in packs. If you’re a Pikachu fan, this card is a no-brainer, but don’t expect it to topple Charizard anytime soon. Your wallet may breathe a sigh of relief!
Arceus VSTAR
#184 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

Arceus VSTAR (#184) comes in at $16.05 and is another powerful contender. With an elegant design by the talented artist 5ban Graphics, it shines with its cosmic vibe. The card provides versatility in play, allowing for strategic deck building and has found its place in many successful competitive decks. Its ability to search for three different types of energy cards makes it versatile and a must-have in various deck archetypes. Prices have remained stable, with slight fluctuations due to its competitive relevance. Pull rates are solid, at roughly one in 60 packs. It’s a card worth investing in if you’re looking to bolster your collection and gameplay. Snagging this one will have you feeling like a true Pokémon master.
Galarian Moltres V
#183 · Rare Secret · Holofoil
Market Price

Next up is the Galarian Moltres V (#183), currently valued at $15.92. This stunning card, illustrated by the talented artist 5ban Graphics, features Galarian Moltres in a dramatic pose with dark colors that capture its shadowy essence. Its competitive relevance stems from its 'Direflame Wings' ability, allowing for quick energy acceleration that can swing matches in your favor. The card’s price has been climbing steadily, benefiting from its role in meta-driven decks. Pull rates sit at around one in 80 packs, making it a bit of a chase item for those who want to capitalize on its power. If you’re in the market for a dynamic card that blends both art and performance, Galarian Moltres V is a solid investment.
Arceus VSTAR
#176 · Rare Rainbow · Holofoil
Market Price

Coming in at $13.28, the Arceus VSTAR (#176) showcases beautiful artwork by the ever-talented 5ban Graphics. This card captures the essence of Arceus, the creator of the Pokémon universe, radiating cosmic energy like it’s been binge-watching Dragon Ball Z. Although its value is lower than other Arceus cards, it still packs a punch in competitive play. Its ability to search for different types of energy makes it a strong contender in diverse decks. The market has seen some fluctuations, but it remains a solid choice for players looking to maximize their deck potential. With decent pull rates, it’s still a chase card in packs. If you’re piecing together a competitive deck, don’t sleep on this one; it’s a worthy addition to any collection.
Lumineon V
#156 · Rare Ultra · Holofoil
Market Price

Rounding out the list is Lumineon V (#156), coming in at $12.99. While it may not boast the fame of its counterparts, it has gained traction in recent months thanks to its utility in play. The artwork is delightful, featuring Lumineon swimming gracefully through a vibrant underwater scene, a real treat for the eyes. Its ability, 'Luminous Sign,' allows for strategic plays by drawing important cards from your deck, making it a favorite among certain deck archetypes. The price has been relatively stable, with a slight incline as more players recognize its value. Pull rates are fair, making it a reasonable target for collectors. If you’re looking to add a functional card to your collection while also enjoying the artwork, Lumineon V won’t disappoint.
The market for Brilliant Stars is ripe with both collectible gems and competitive staples. Charizard cards, unsurprisingly, dominate the higher end of the market, while other cards like Arceus and trainers like Ultra Ball maintain steady demand. For players and collectors alike, investing in cards that blend both gameplay and aesthetic appeal is a strategic move. I’d suggest keeping an eye on Arceus V and VSTAR as they continue to hold their value, while Lumineon V and Galarian Moltres V offer solid investment potential without breaking the bank. As always, the key is to chase what you love — after all, isn’t that why we started collecting in the first place? So, whether you’re tearing into packs like a kid on Christmas morning or hunting for singles online, Brilliant Stars has something for everyone. Just remember, your wallet may not always agree with your passion!
Prices updated automatically. Last article refresh: April 8, 2026
Market prices sourced from TCGPlayer. Affiliate links may earn us a commission at no cost to you.
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