What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded the Illustrator Pikachu, a card of immense historical importance in the Pokémon collecting community. This card, assessed by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), received a Mint 9 grade, identifying it as one of the finest examples available. Beckett continues to uphold its tradition of certifying pivotal collectibles, including earlier instances of the Illustrator Pikachu.
Originally, the Illustrator Pikachu was given to victors of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, distinguishing it from regular Pokémon TCG releases. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original creator 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 stores)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Roughly 101 copies are believed to exist, with 41 being publicly known or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No standard inserts or parallels; this card is a unique promotional issue
- Its uniqueness stems from its exclusive contest distribution and atypical release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia content linked with the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card's importance is derived from its origin, artwork, and contest history
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest Pokémon card by sheer numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is esteemed for its cultural and historical significance.
- About 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 confirmed through grading or public transactions.
- The card's value and status are elevated by its creator, contest heritage, and its role as a pinnacle in high-end Pokémon collecting.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 example boasted higher subgrades than a prior Beckett-graded copy, including centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded card enhances the understanding of its survival rate and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett's certification offers reliable authentication and documentation for this iconic edition.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked with this card.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
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