Blastoise

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 8/10

Recent 9.2% 30-day gain in NM raw prices amid ongoing Pokémon TCG nostalgia boom[1]

Next months. Stable to slight rise next 3-6 months with steady demand

Long term. Continued appreciation over 1-3 years due to scarcity of high-grade copies

History

Blastoise is the final evolution of Squirtle, a Water-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I. As the Shell Pokémon, it is known for its massive cannons on its shell that fire high-pressure water blasts capable of puncturing steel plates, serving as the powerhouse starter Pokémon for Water-type trainers.

First released in the Pokémon Base Set in January 1999 in the United States by Wizards of the Coast as part of the English TCG launch.

• Iconic holofoil artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita, one of the most recognized cards from the Base Set
• Shadowless variant lacks the drop shadow on the right border text, printed early in the run
• Part of the original starter trio alongside Charizard and Venusaur, driving collector demand

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

Medium

First printed in

Base Set

Demand

High

Supply

Medium

• Shadowless variant from early print run pre-drop shadow addition
• Holofoil printing errors common but desirable in high grade
• Base Set flagship status increases desirability

Collector notes

Condition. Check centering on borders (especially top/bottom), corners for whitening or dings, edges for chipping or dents, surface for scratches/holo scratches on shell, print lines or pixelation; common flaws include holo lines, centering issues, and edge wear from early print quality.

Storage. Use semi-rigid or top-loader holders with sleeves, store in cool, dry, dark environment away from sunlight/UV to prevent fading, avoid stacking without dividers, use climate-controlled storage for long-term.

Authenticity. Verify Wizards of the Coast copyright line with correct font/spacing, check holo pattern consistency (rainbow foil not overly shiny), black dot matrix on back matches era, weigh card (fakes often lighter/heavier), UV light reveals print differences; Shadowless confirmed by no border shadow; professional grading recommended.