What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card of great historical importance in the Pokémon trading card world. Beckett Grading Services (BGS) evaluated the card, awarding it a Mint 9 grade, signifying it as one of the best-preserved specimens available. This grading adds to Beckett’s history of certifying significant collectibles, including other Illustrator Pikachu cards.
The Illustrator Pikachu was initially given to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from regular Pokémon TCG releases. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original artist behind Pikachu.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Awarded in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or retail)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Around 101 copies are believed to exist, with 41 publicly verified or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No traditional inserts or parallels; this card is a unique promotional item
- Holds a special status due to its exclusive contest distribution and non-standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia content linked with the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card's importance is rooted in its origin, artwork, and contest background
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest Pokémon card in terms of numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is among the most culturally and historically important.
- Approximately 101 copies are believed to exist, with 41 known through grading or public transactions.
- The card's prestige and value are bolstered by its creator, contest background, and standing as a high-end Pokémon collectible benchmark.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 version received higher subgrades than an earlier Beckett-graded copy, including aspects like centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Every authenticated and graded copy helps gauge the card’s survival and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett’s certification offers reliable authentication and documentation for this notable release.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked to this card.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
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