Charizard! That word sparks old memories for any Pokemon fan. Remember the classic anime where a worn-out Charizard goes toe-to-toe with a tough Magmar. Stirred by the strength of its rival, Charizard gets back into action, showing off its raw strength that had us all rooting like crazy. That intense fighting spirit is why Charizard Pokemon cards are in high demand among collectors.
Now, we’ll dive into the world of Charizard Pokemon cards, cherry-picking the top 5 most valuable! We’ll look at both graded and ungraded varieties, so if you have a perfectly preserved card or a cherished one from your early days, you can see their potential worth. But let’s hit pause for a moment before diving into the list to discuss how Pokemon cards are graded.
How Pokemon Cards Are Graded
Pokemon cards, some rare like Charizard, hold real worth. So, how do you work out your card’s value? This happens through grading.
Grading companies, expertise in the field, carefully check Pokemon cards. They give a grade by looking at the card state. It is like your card’s report card!
Here’s a simpler view of the grading process:
- Authentication: First, the company ensures your card is genuine and not a fake.
- Condition Checkup: The card goes under a magnifying glass (and sometimes even stronger tech) for a thorough inspection. They’ll look for factors like:
- Centering: How well-aligned are the text, image, and borders?
- Corners: Are they sharp and free of any bends or whitening?
- Surface: Are there any scratches, dents, or printing defects?
- Edges: Are they clean and free of fraying?
- The Grading Scale: Most companies use a 10-point scale, with 10 being “gem mint” (practically perfect) and 1 being “poor.” Some companies offer half-point grades for even more detail.
- Encapsulation: Once graded, the card gets placed in a secure, tamper-evident holder to protect it from future damage. This holder often includes a label with the assigned grade and other details.
Here’s the kicker: A high grade can significantly increase a card’s value. A Charizard card in “good” condition might be worth a few bucks, while a PSA 10 (graded by Professional Sports Authenticators, a popular company) can fetch thousands, or even millions!
Now that you understand the power of a perfect 10, let’s jump back into our countdown of the most expensive Charizard cards!
How much ‘my’ Charizard Pokemon card is worth? Let’s find out.
Charizard 1st Edition #4
1. Charizard 1st Edition #4 (Shadowless & Base Set)
Our top pick is the Charizard (1st Edition) #4. This card’s high value ties to two things. One, it’s from the Pokemon cards’ very first launch, the Base Set, from 1999. These 1st Edition cards are collector favorites for their rareness and their place in Pokemon history. Two, the early BAse Set Charizard (#4) prints have no shadow behind the artwork. This increases their value over the “shadowed” versions. That happened because of a quick fix for a printing mistake. These “shadowless” Charizards are a collector’s dream. They’re a special peek at Pokemon trading cards’ early days!
Price Ungraded: $1,841*
Price Graded: Grade 9: $19,575.53*, PSA 10: $230,732.39*
Year of launch: 1999
Charizard #146
2. Charizard #146 (Crystal Charizard – Skyridge)
In the world of Pokemon cards, Charizard #146, called Crystal Charizard, earns a spot at number two in our ranking. It belongs to the Skyridge set from 2003, quite liked by collectors.
Though it doesn’t outshine the 1st edition Shadowless Charizard Pokemon card in popularity, Crystal Charizard’s value isn’t any less. Why is it so? Here are two reasons.
The first one: Skyridge set’s unique standing. These cards stand out with their “crystal” glittery look because of a special printing method used. The visual delight of their look, added with the fact that they’re hard to find, uplifts the worth of all cards from this set, including Charizard.
The second reason: The eye-catching art of Crystal Charizard Pokemon card. The card shows Charizard with its wings wide open and fire sparks from its tail. The “crystal” element increases the card’s powerful image, making it a valued item for collectors.
Price Ungraded: $1,497*
Price Graded: Grade 9: $7,088.64*, PSA 10: $13,200*
Year of launch: 2003
Charizard #6 (Sparkle)
3. Charizard #6 (Sparkle)
The Charizard (Sparkle) #6 from the 2000 Topps Chrome Pokemon T.V. series gets the third spot on our list. The card’s unique printing mistake makes it stand out and sparks chats among collectors.
Here’s what happened: Many Pokemon cards have a matte look. But, a few of these Charizard cards shimmers, almost holographic. This rare mix-up happened at the print shop. It’s thought only a tiny portion of the total supply was affected. The card’s rarity increases its worth.
Even if it’s not a genuine holographic Charizard Pokemon card, the glittering effect adds a singular twist that collectors like. The card showcases Charizard in action, fire streaming behind it.
Price Ungraded: $2,012*
Price Graded: Grade 9: $2,786*, PSA 10: $6,750*
Year of launch: 2000
Shining Charizard 1st Edition #107
4. Shining Charizard 1st Edition #107 (Neo Destiny)
Charizard’s fiery spirit is shown in the Shinning Charizard (1st Edition) #107 card. This 2002 Neo Destiny set piece is a collector’s gem. Its striking art and first-edition status make it special. Charizard’s mighty pose is the focus of the card.
It shows the creature ready for battle, its wings wide, eyes full of resolve. The “Shining” title hints at the holographic touch adding to the artwork.
Yet, what makes this Charizard Pokemon card a prize is its 1st Edition tag from Neo Destiny set. It has a similar appeal to 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard from the Base Set. These prime prints, rare and historically important, are truly desired.
Price Ungraded: $1,367.63*
Price Graded: Grade 9: $3,490.25*, PSA 10: $10,818.31*
Year of launch: 2002
Charizard #6 (No Rarity)
5. Charizard #6 (No Rarity)
This Charizard Pokemon card is a treasure for those who love collecting. It comes from the early days of the Pokemon hobby, 1996 Japan’s first release, a couple years ahead of the English version. This card is, indeed, a piece of Pokemon history for collectors. There’s also something unique about it – it’s missing the usually present rarity symbol (like common, rare, etc.) Unlike others from its time. This makes it a conversational piece, stirring discussions among collectors, adding an extra layer to its appeal.
Lastly, for many, this card is like a time machine to their Pokemon beginnings. It brings back memories from childhood and the excitement of collecting these fascinating cards. It sure is a valued nostalgic piece!
Price Ungraded: $990.98*
Price Graded: Grade 8: $12,999.44*, Grade 7: $3,631.69*
Year of launch: 2002
P.S. Prices are subject to change. So, please do your own research while buying or trading Pokemon cards.
Until next time, fellow Pokémon fans, Ciao!!
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