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Do Pokémon Cards Still Have 1st Editions?

Introduction

With all the Pokémon cards ever made, they had to start somewhere. That is where the 1st Edition cards came from. They were the first cards to be made for that Pokémon, the base model for all other editions followed.

The 1st Edition cards came out in the United States on January 9, 1999. It is the only set expansion so far not to have a set logo or symbol. It is one of the few sets to include Fighting, Fire, Grass, Lightning, Psychic, and Water Energy Cards, now known as Energy Cards.

These cards were the base model for a lot of people’s opinions, the greatest card game ever made.

So how exactly can you spot a 1st Edition and what are they really worth? Let’s take a look!

What are 1st edition Pokémon cards?

1st edition Pokémon cards are the first run of cards for that release set. Each 1st Edition card released gets a stamp, just below the Pokémon, to signify its 1st Edition status. 1st Edition cards also came from 1999, when the cards first originated. You also have Shadowless 1st Edition and Unlimited 1st Edition.

Why are there no first edition Pokémon cards anymore?

The English version of the game no longer produces 1st Edition cards. No matter when they are produced, they are now a part of the unlimited print run. Thus, making any 1st Edition cards that you have, rare.

Are 1st Edition Pokémon cards worth anything?

Yes, 1st Edition Pokémon cards are very valuable because they are the first cards that were released for the US market and can fetch a nice price. The current English version of the game stopped making 1st Editions. Currently, 1st Edition boxes sell for over $14,000. Whereas single 1st Edition cards can go from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

First, you need to identify the type and assess the rarity of the card. There are a few indicators of a rarity on a card. A marker near the bottom of the car will indicate rarity: a circle means the card is common, a diamond means it’s less common, and a star means it’s rare. More stars or combinations of letters or symbols means it’s extra rare.

Other rare indicators include reverse holographic, everything but the artwork is holographic or regular holographic. These can all change the rarity and the price of your 1st Edition Pokémon cards.

How do I know if my Pokémon cards are 1st edition?

Every 1st Edition card gets a stamp stating it is a First Edition card. This is found on the bottom left corner of the frame for the Pokémon’s image. It will align with the banner giving the weight and length of the Pokémon.

How much do 1st Edition Pokémon cards go for?

The original Pokémon base set (1999 1st Edition Shadowless) is the most collectible and expensive. First Edition cards in perfect condition are valued at a minimum of $40. Whereas the First-Edition holo in mint condition can go anywhere from $1,000 to $30,000.

There have been sealed boxes of First Edition Pokémon cards go for $408,000. The price of your card will depend on its rarity and condition, as well as how many other 1st Editions you will be selling with it.

How many 1st Edition Pokémon cards are there?

The original Base Set of Pokémon cards has 102 based on the first generation of Pokémon.

Are all 1999 Pokémon cards first edition?

Yes, every 102- cards in the 1999 1st Edition (Base Set) series, which was the first Pokémon issue unveiled in the U.S was First Edition. This series was produced by Wizards of the Coast. No one knows the exact number of 1st Edition cards, but it’s estimated to be at least 10,000 of each card produced.

How much is a Pokémon 1st Edition Pack worth?

Depending on what kind of pack you would want, and if you want a sealed set, the price can vary. Currently, there is a 1999 Pokémon Base Set Shadowless 1st Edition set for $5,500. The price of the 1st Edition Pack can also change based on the demand for it. Every day the prices will fluctuate, however with 1st Edition Packs, they tend to hold their value.

Conclusion

Finding 1st Edition Pokémon cards is one of the best investments you can make as a collector. Have you found any nice 1st Edition cards recently? Tell us in the comments!

Happy hunting!