What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card with immense historical importance in the Pokémon card collecting world. This particular card was graded by Beckett Grading Services (BGS) and received a Mint 9 grade, making it one of the best-preserved specimens available. This further establishes Beckett’s reputation for certifying significant collectibles, including past Illustrator Pikachu cards.
The Illustrator Pikachu was originally given to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from regular Pokémon TCG cards. The artwork was created by Atsuko Nishida, the original artist responsible for Pikachu’s design.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Granted in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not sold in packs or at retail)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Estimated 101 copies exist, with 41 known through grading or public records
- Special Features: Authenticated provenance, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No conventional inserts or parallels; this card is a unique promotional item
- Its unique distribution through contests and non-standard release contributes to its distinct status
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia content linked to the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card’s importance stems from its origin, artwork, and contest history
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest Pokémon card by sheer numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is regarded as one of the most culturally and historically important.
- About 101 copies are believed to exist, with 41 documented through grading or public sale.
- The card’s prestige and value are bolstered by its creator, contest origin, 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 instance helps understand the card’s preservation and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett’s role offers trusted authentication and documentation for this iconic card.
- This card has no design variations, serial numbers, or parallels.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
Comments