The 1999 Holofoil Shadowless Blastoise card is one of the most sought-after Pokémon cards in the world of Pokémon TCG collectors. Its rarity, unique printing history, and iconic status make it one of the holy grails of the hobby. Let’s break down the reasons why this card continues to be a highly coveted piece for collectors and why it commands such incredible prices in today’s market.
1. Shadowless Print
The Shadowless Blastoise is part of the original Base Set of Pokémon cards released in 1999. The most distinctive feature of this card is that it is shadowless—meaning it lacks the drop shadow behind Blastoise’s right side. This was an error in the initial printing run of the set, and only a small number of Shadowless cards were produced before the design was corrected in future prints. This error makes the Shadowless Blastoise an especially rare variation that is highly desirable for collectors of first-generation Pokémon cards.
2. Holofoil Variant
Another key feature of the 1999 Holofoil Shadowless Blastoise card is its holofoil pattern, which gives the card a shiny, reflective surface. This holofoil version of Blastoise, with its vibrant colors and sparkling finish, stands out as one of the most visually appealing cards from the Base Set. The card’s holofoil treatment makes it look far more striking than other non-holo versions of the card, adding to its aesthetic appeal and driving up its demand.
3. Blastoise’s Popularity
Blastoise, the Water-type final evolution of Squirtle, is one of the original Kanto starters, alongside Charmander and Bulbasaur. As one of the most beloved Pokémon in the franchise, Blastoise’s card has always been in high demand. This popularity, paired with its status as a part of the first generation of Pokémon, makes the Shadowless Holofoil Blastoise card a must-have for any serious collector.
4. Print Run and Limited Availability
The 1999 Holofoil Shadowless Blastoise was part of a limited print run that only existed during a brief period of time before the print run was corrected, which gives it the rare "shadowless" distinction. These cards were produced in relatively small numbers, and many were either damaged or lost over time. Only a small amount of near-mint or gem mint versions of this card have survived, increasing its rarity.
5. Condition and Grading
As with many vintage Pokémon cards, the condition of the card greatly affects its value. The 1999 Holofoil Shadowless Blastoise is often found in less-than-perfect condition due to its age and the way it was stored. Only a select few have been graded highly by professional grading services like PSA or BGS. A PSA 10 or BGS 10 version of this card is incredibly rare and can easily fetch five-figure prices at auction, depending on its condition.
Collectors are willing to pay a premium price for a highly-graded version of the Shadowless Blastoise, as there are so few in perfect condition, making it a great investment for collectors seeking the best of the best.
6. Cultural and Historical Significance
The 1999 Holofoil Shadowless Blastoise card holds historical significance for Pokémon collectors. It’s one of the first holographic cards to feature the beloved Kanto starter, Blastoise, in full glory. The card's release marked the beginning of the Pokémon Trading Card Game’s rise to worldwide popularity, making it an important piece of the Pokémon card history. For many, owning a Shadowless Blastoise is a symbol of nostalgia and Pokémon’s early days.
7. Record-Breaking Auction Prices
Like many rare Pokémon cards, the 1999 Holofoil Shadowless Blastoise has seen impressive sales at auctions. High-grade copies of the card, particularly in PSA 10 or BGS 10 condition, have fetched prices of several thousand dollars, with some even reaching five figures. As the Pokémon card market continues to grow, especially with the rise of online platforms like eBay, the card's value is expected to continue to increase, making it a hot commodity among collectors.