The 10 Most Expensive Cards in Ruby & Sapphire
The Ruby & Sapphire set, released in 2003, marked the dawn of the third generation of Pokémon TCG, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. We were transitioning to the EX series, introducing some seriously powerful mechanics like EX Pokémon that could take a beating but also required careful strategizing to manage their high HP and rewards. The artwork was a fresh breath, showcasing vibrant colors and unique styles, capturing the essence of these Hoenn region Pokémon brilliantly. For collectors, this set is a nostalgic gem, stirring memories of blowing through packs like they were candy while dreaming of pulling that ultra-rare EX card. The market for Ruby & Sapphire has been gaining momentum, thanks to a mix of nostalgia and the competitive relevance of certain cards that have stood the test of time. So, what are the heavy hitters that are making collectors’ wallets squeal? Let’s dive into the top contenders that have been dominating the secondary market.
Browse the complete Ruby & Sapphire set
View all 109 cards, prices, and your collection progress
Mewtwo ex
#101 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

Mewtwo ex (#101) is the crown jewel of the Ruby & Sapphire set, and you can see why it's commanding a staggering $249.08. This card is not just a nostalgic relic; it's a powerhouse. Mewtwo ex showcases stunning artwork by Masakazu Fukuda, featuring our legendary psychic hero in a pose that screams, 'I'm ready to throw down.' With its ability to dish out a hefty 100 damage with Psychic Infinity, it’s been a staple in competitive play. Collectors are also drawn to its rarity as a Rare Holo EX; the chase factor is real here. Pull rates are notoriously low, with only a few lucky trainers finding it in packs. Prices have steadily climbed over the past year, reflecting its enduring popularity. If you own one, cherish it; if not, well, your wallet might just cry a little when you go hunting.
Blaziken
#3 · Rare Holo · Reverse Holofoil
Market Price

Blaziken (#3) is not just a fiery starter; it’s a fiery investment at $122.12 for the Reverse Holofoil. The card’s artwork is dynamic, courtesy of artist Ken Sugimori, portraying Blaziken in action, which is perfect for a Pokémon known for its speed and strength. In the competitive arena, Blaziken has seen its share of fame, especially in Fire-type decks that capitalize on aggressive strategies. Its attacks are a blast, and let’s not forget that the nostalgia factor for those who started with Torchic is through the roof. Market trends show this card has been consistently climbing, making it a solid pickup if you’re looking to invest. While it’s not as hard to pull as Mewtwo ex, collectors are definitely chasing it down. If you find one, don’t let it slip through your fingers—this firestarter is only getting hotter.
Lapras ex
#99 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

Lapras ex (#99) is a beautiful card that currently swims at $108.60. Its serene artwork by Ryo Ueda captures the gentle giant’s essence, making it visually striking. Lapras ex is not just eye candy; it also brings a unique ability to the table, allowing for strategic plays in Water-type decks. However, while it’s a collector’s dream, it hasn’t made waves in competitive play like some of the other heavy hitters. The price has seen an uptick recently, thanks in part to nostalgia and the solid pull rates—though it’s still a rare find in packs. Lapras ex has proven to be a long-term hold, appealing both to collectors and players. If you want a card that looks great in a binder and has potential, this one’s worth considering, though you might want to double-check your budget first.
Scyther ex
#102 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

Scyther ex (#102) is slicing its way to the top with a current market price of $100.27. The artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita is a fan-favorite, encapsulating the speed and ferocity of this Bug-type. But what makes this card truly special is its competitive edge. With its ability to deal solid damage and manipulate energy quite well, Scyther has found a place in various decks. The supply for this card is limited, which adds to its value. Like some of its peers, it has been on the price rise lately, appealing to both competitive players and collectors who remember the joy of pulling Scyther back in the day. While not as iconic as Mewtwo, Scyther ex is a solid card to keep an eye on, especially as collectors continue to chase that nostalgic buzz.
Sceptile
#11 · Rare Holo · Reverse Holofoil
Market Price

Sceptile (#11), currently priced at $86.74 for the Reverse Holofoil version, is the beautiful grass starter that boasts some seriously stunning artwork by Atsuko Nishida. This card holds its ground in the competitive scene, often seen in Grass-type decks where it can outmaneuver opponents with some clever play. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Mewtwo ex or Blaziken, its steady price point and competitive relevance keep it interesting. The market for Sceptile has been stable, showing a slight upward trend recently, making it a solid addition for both collectors and players. The pull rate isn’t nearly as harsh as some of its rarer counterparts, but finding a pristine version can still feel like a win. If you’re into Grass-types or just love this Pokémon, snagging a Sceptile ex might just be worth your while.
Sneasel ex
#103 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

Sneasel ex (#103) may not be the most iconic Pokémon, but it’s currently fetching $86.50 on the market. The artwork, illustrated by Yoshida, gives this Dark-type an edgy vibe that resonates with fans. On the competitive side, Sneasel ex offers decent damage output and synergy within Dark-type decks, making it a versatile card. The market has seen Sneasel ex’s price bobbing up and down, but it has gained a solid following among collectors. Its pull rates are relatively favorable, so if you're cracking packs from this set, keep an eye out for this sneaky little guy. While not a must-have for every deck, it certainly holds its own, and you might find it to be an excellent pickup if prices continue to trend positively. Just remember, catching Sneasel isn’t as easy as it looks—much like my attempts at assembling a complete collection.
Hitmonchan ex
#98 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

At $68.75, Hitmonchan ex (#98) puts up a fight in both the competitive and collector realms. The artwork by Ken Sugimori captures the essence of this boxing Pokémon perfectly, making it a fan favorite. This card packs a punch with its solid attack options, fitting well in Fighting-type decks. Hitmonchan ex has maintained a steady price; while it hasn’t skyrocketed, its consistent performance and nostalgia keep it afloat in the market. Pull rates are moderate, so you might come across this one more often than some of the bigger hits. However, if you're looking for a reliable card that packs a decent punch, this one might be worth your time. It’s not the most glamorous of cards, but it holds a special place for those who appreciate the classics and the thrill of the fight.
Chansey ex
#96 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

Chansey ex (#96) is the cute contender that’s making waves at $55.74. While you might think, 'Why would I want a pink blob on my team?' let me tell you: Chansey has its charms. The artwork by Kagemaru Himeno portrays this Pokémon in a way that captures its chubby, lovable essence. Competitive play-wise, Chansey may not dominate the battlefield, but it has its niche with healing abilities in certain strategies. Over time, its price has been relatively stable, appealing primarily to collectors due to its adorable nature. Pull rates aren’t the worst, but you won’t stumble across Chansey ex every day. If you're a collector who appreciates Pokémon beyond just their battle prowess, this card deserves a spot in your binder. It proves that sometimes, cuteness can win the day—or at least make you smile every time you see it.
Magmar ex
#100 · Rare Holo EX · Holofoil
Market Price

Magmar ex (#100) is sparking interest at $53.52, but let's be real: it’s not the hottest card in the set. The artwork by Masakazu Fukuda is vibrant and captures Magmar’s fiery personality, but the competitive relevance is somewhat lukewarm. Magmar ex has found a place in certain Fire-type decks, but it’s not the go-to choice like some of its rarer counterparts. The market for this card has seen a slight uptick, making it a decent collector's item without the hefty price tag. Pull rates are relatively decent, so you might snag this card without breaking the bank. If you love Magmar or want to add some fiery flair to your collection, it's worth considering, but don't expect it to set your world on fire.
Aggron
#1 · Rare Holo · Reverse Holofoil
Market Price

Aggron (#1) rounds out the top ten at $51.18 for the Reverse Holofoil version. The artwork is nothing short of epic, with Aggron standing strong like a tank ready to take on anything. However, in the competitive scene, Aggron has seen better days. While its HP is impressive, its abilities haven’t captured the hearts of players in the same way as the top-tier cards. The price has been relatively stable, which is a good sign, but it’s not gearing up for a drastic increase any time soon. Pull rates are moderate; it’s more common than some of the other cards on this list. If you’re a fan of Steel-types or just love Aggron’s design, it could be worth adding to your collection, but don’t expect it to break the bank or lead any championship decks.
The Ruby & Sapphire set has solidified its place in the hearts of collectors and competitive players alike. Prices are trending positively for several cards, particularly those that capture nostalgia while offering competitive playability. If you're looking to invest, Mewtwo ex and Blaziken are your golden nuggets, but keep an eye on Scyther and Sceptile for long-term gains as they still have plenty of room to grow. Cards like Magmar ex and Aggron, while nice to have, might not be worth the splurge compared to their higher-tier counterparts. For those considering ripping packs, be prepared for a thrilling ride—chasing down EX cards is a challenge, but the rewards can be well worth it. Whether you're in it for the nostalgia, the artwork, or competitive play, Ruby & Sapphire offers a delightful experience that keeps the spirit of Pokémon alive. Now go forth, Trainer, and may your pulls be ever in your favor!
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.
Browse all 109 cards in Ruby & Sapphire →