Gengar

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 7/10

Recent 35.4% 30-day increase in raw NM pricing reflects sustained collector interest in WOTC 1st Edition holos amid Pokémon TCG market recovery[1]

Next months. Stable to modest gains (+10-20%) next 3-6 months, supported by steady auction activity

Long term. Appreciation (2-3x in 1-3 years) for graded 9+ due to scarcity and franchise growth

History

Gengar is a Ghost/Poison-type Pokémon from the Pokémon franchise, evolving from Haunter when traded and known as the Shadow Pokémon. It first appeared in the original Generation I games (Red/Blue/Green) in 1996, renowned for its mischievous, haunting nature, ability to hide in shadows, and signature moves like Shadow Ball, making it a fan-favorite among collectors for its iconic design and competitive viability.

First released in the Pokémon Fossil set on October 10, 1999, in the United States by Wizards of the Coast as part of the Base Set expansion cycle.

• This Gengar card features the 'Curse' Pokémon Power, allowing it to place damage counters on the opponent's Pokémon, a mechanic central to early competitive play.
• The 1st Edition stamp was applied to the initial print run of Fossil, making stamped copies significantly rarer.
• Gengar from Fossil is celebrated for its artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita, capturing the Pokémon's eerie, grinning presence.

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

Medium

First printed in

Fossil

Demand

High

Supply

Low

• 1st Edition stamp limits print run to early production batches
• Holo rare slot in Fossil set with pull rates around 1:3 packs
• Vintage 1999 WOTC print prone to condition degradation over time

Collector notes

Condition. Examine centering on all four edges (aim for 60/40 or better), sharp corners free of whitening or dings, clean holo pattern without scratches or clouding, and pristine black borders; common flaws include holo scratches from shuffling, edge wear, and print lines on the ghost pattern.

Storage. Store in semi-rigid or magnetic holders like Dragon Shield or Ultra Pro top loaders within cardboard repositories, away from sunlight, humidity fluctuations, and PVC plastics; use team bags for added protection during handling.

Authenticity. Verify 1st Edition stamp alignment and font (sharp '1st Edition' text without blurring); check for correct dotted copyright pattern, precise holo foil shimmer, and card weight/thickness; consult graded or graded population reports for low-pop confirmation, and compare to high-res official scans for printing errors indicative of counterfeits.