What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card of immense historical importance in the Pokémon trading card realm. Graded by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), it received a Mint 9 grade, highlighting it as one of the finest preserved specimens. This follows Beckett’s tradition of certifying notable collectibles, including prior Illustrator Pikachu cards.
This Illustrator Pikachu was initially awarded to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from standard Pokémon TCG releases. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original artist of Pikachu.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Granted in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or retail)
- Grading: Mint 9 by Beckett Grading Services (BGS)
- Population: Estimated 101 copies in existence, with 41 publicly verified or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No traditional inserts or parallels; the card stands alone as a promotional issue
- Unique due to its contest-specific distribution and non-standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia linked with the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card’s value lies in its origin, artwork, and contest-related provenance
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest in sheer numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is deemed one of the most culturally and historically significant Pokémon cards.
- Around 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 confirmed through grading or public sales.
- The card's prestige is augmented by its creator, contest background, and status as a high-end Pokémon collecting benchmark.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 specimen achieved higher subgrades than a previously graded Beckett version, including centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded copy aids in understanding the card's survival rate and condition norms within the hobby.
- Beckett's role ensures reliable authentication and documentation for this iconic card.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked to this card.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
Comments