This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/6/2021
The Pokemon trading card series has surpassed all others before it as the most highly desired non-sports collection since the tobacco industry began distributing cards in the late 19th century. Since its inception in 1995, the franchise has branched out to include almost 900 fictional species that have made appearances in various media releases. Pokemon trading cards have reached a level that surpasses the time-honored American tradition of sports card collecting and the featured item might be properly compared to a 1952 Topps Mantle, 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan, well, take your pick, you get the idea. This 1st Edition holographic card stands at the ultimate example of the Pokemon industry, showcasing Mitsuhiro Arita’s artwork in the forefront of the sparkling holographic surroundings. It comes from the first English language Pokemon collection, and thus, is the first English language Charizard card ever produced, printed in much more limited quantity than any other traditional Charizard card and differs from the second release of 1st edition cards with the shadow and third release without the 1st edition; this rare piece is both 1st edition and shadowless. Graded PSA 9, the card shows no wear or chipping anywhere along the cornerless edges and leaves one to wonder what is lacking that prevents a grade of PSA 10 GEM MINT, a mark held by only 122 examples out of well over 3,000 submissions. It's simply the best issue that there is in the expansive Pokemon franchise!