The 10 Most Expensive Cards in McDonald's Collection 2021

Ah, Pikachu (#25), the face of Pokémon and the reigning champion of the McDonald's Collection 2021. This card commands a price of $2.86 — and it's a wonder why it doesn’t cost more given its sheer iconic status. The nostalgia factor here is huge. This incarnation features Pikachu in a vibrant pose, bursting with energy, likely crafted by the talented artists at Game Freak. The lively colors and classic design make it a visual gem. Competitive relevance? Not really; this card won’t be dominating tournaments anytime soon, but it's a bonafide collector's item. Historically, its value has seen a steady climb since the set's release, capturing the hearts of fans and collectors alike. As for pull rates, you’d have to open a fair number of Happy Meals to bag this little electric mouse — it’s not the rarest, but certainly sought after. Grab it while it’s still relatively affordable; after all, this card could outlive my questionable spending habits.

Squirtle (#17) swims in with a value of $1.50, making it the second most valuable card in this collection. This adorable Water-type Pokémon captures the hearts of collectors with its classic charm. The artwork presents Squirtle with a cute expression and a hint of mischief, expertly illustrating the beloved creature’s playful nature. While it’s not a powerhouse in competitive play, the home run factor here is pure nostalgia — everyone remembers their first Water-type starter. Price-wise, it’s been pretty stable since launch, but there’s been a slight uptick as collectors realize this cutie deserves attention. Pull rates are decent, but don’t expect to snag it on your first try. Ultimately, it’s a solid piece for any collection, blending nostalgia with a tidy price point. Just don't forget: owning a Squirtle is like having an adorable piece of Pokémon history on your shelf.

Bulbasaur (#1) comes in clutch at $0.90, proving that even the underdog can shine. This Grass-type starter packs a punch in the nostalgia department, featuring Bulbasaur in a vibrant, blooming setting that exemplifies its nature-loving spirit. As for competitive play, this little guy is mostly for collectors — he's not winning tournaments anytime soon. However, Bulbasaur's long-standing legacy in the franchise makes it a favorite among fans. The market for this card has been relatively stable, but with collectors looking to snag the complete set, its value could see an increase in the coming months. Pull rates are decent, meaning you'll likely find it in your Happy Meal run. Bottom line: If you’re budgeting for your collection, Bulbasaur is a solid buy that won’t break the bank and will always be a conversation starter.

Charmander (#9) is sizzling at a price of $0.71, and for good reason! This Fire-type starter has been stealing hearts since the '90s, and this rendition showcases it in all its fiery glory. The artwork captures Charmander's fierce spirit, complete with its signature flame tail. Personally, I think this little dragon is a gem for anyone who loves the original starters. While not a competitive piece, Charmander holds a special place in many players' hearts — it's the gateway to the powerhouse Charizard. The market for this card has remained consistent, and it’s a solid grab for those looking to complete their collection. Pull rates are fair, but you’d better be quick on the Happy Meal draw! In the end, Charmander is a classic pick, and if you find one, you’re in for a nostalgic treat.

Piplup (#20) waddles in at $0.65, serving up major cuteness and some serious collector appeal. As one of the more recent starters introduced from Generation IV, Piplup has a strong fanbase, and this card captures the little guy in a delightful pose. The artwork is charming, with bright colors and an endearing expression that’s hard to resist. Competitive relevance is low — Piplup isn’t the star of anyone's deck — but that doesn’t stop it from being a sought-after card for fans. Its value has been relatively stable, and while it’s not skyrocketing, it's a solid choice for collectors looking to round out their collections. Pulling Piplup might take a few tries, but it’s a fun challenge. If you’re a collector who values cuteness, adding Piplup to your lineup is a no-brainer.

Mudkip (#19) splashes in with a modest price tag of $0.54. This Water-type from Generation III has a dedicated following, and the artwork on this card showcases its playful demeanor perfectly. If you've ever seen Mudkip, you know it embodies the spirit of adventure and fun. Competitive players might roll their eyes — Mudkip isn’t a competitive superstar — but collectors love its charm. Its price has stayed steady since release, making it an accessible option for those looking to complete the collection. Pull rates are good, so you won't have to dive deep into your wallet to snag one. Grab a Mudkip for your collection; it’s a fun card that reflects the joy of Pokémon and gives you a sense of nostalgia every time you see it.

Totodile (#18) comes in at $0.52, making it a fun addition to the McDonald's lineup. This Water-type starter is loved for its feisty personality and playful design. The artwork perfectly highlights Totodile’s energetic nature, offering a vibrant burst of color that makes it stand out. While it’s not a competitive beast, it’s the collector vibe that carries this card. The price has remained stable since the set’s release, making it a solid card to add to your collection without leaving your wallet too empty. Pulling this little guy shouldn't be too difficult, as its pull rates are fair. In a world of competitive card chaos, having a Totodile is like a refreshing drink of water — always a good choice.

Torchic (#11) struts in at $0.48, and let’s be honest: it's hard not to love this little fiery bird. The artwork is adorably vibrant, showcasing Torchic's fluffy texture and cheerful demeanor. While Torchic may not be the star of competitive decks, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans who played through the Hoenn region. Its price has held steady, much like the rest of the set, making it an appealing buy for collectors. Pull rates are good, so you can expect to find this one without breaking the bank. Whether you're a die-hard competitive player or just someone who collects for the love of Pokémon, Torchic is a delightful addition that reminds everyone of the joy of childhood Pokémon adventures.

Cyndaquil (#10) warms up the collection with a modest price of $0.47. This adorable Fire-type is beloved for its cuteness and has an artwork style that brilliantly captures Cyndaquil's cozy and playful personality. While it’s not going to break any competitive records, this little flame thrower is still a must-have for any collector who holds nostalgia dear. The market has been stable, and while not a hype card, Cyndaquil retains its value in the hearts of fans. Pulling it isn't particularly challenging either, which is a plus. For those of you who remember the struggles of facing down gym leaders with your starter, Cyndaquil is a gateway back to those unforgettable memories.

Last but not least, Turtwig (#4) prances in at $0.41, bringing some Earthly charm to the table. This Grass-type starter is adored for its sturdy design and the artwork encapsulates Turtwig’s endearing characteristics. Competitive play? Not really in the spotlight, but as a collector's piece, it’s a solid addition. The price has remained consistently low, which might make it an under-appreciated gem among collectors. Pull rates are decent, so you shouldn't have to rely on luck to find it. In the grand scheme, while Turtwig may not have the glitz of some other cards, its value lies in its nostalgia and its representation of the beloved starter trio. Add it to your collection, and you’ll find yourself smiling every time you see that friendly little face.