What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a profoundly significant card in the Pokémon trading card community. This card, graded by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), received a Mint 9 rating, making it one of the most well-preserved specimens known. Beckett continues its tradition of certifying notable collectibles, including previous examples of the Illustrator Pikachu.
The Illustrator Pikachu was originally awarded to the victors 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: Given in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or retail)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Estimated 101 copies exist, with 41 publicly known or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No traditional inserts or parallels; the card is a unique promotional release
- Its unique status stems from being distributed solely through the contest and not as a standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia content linked to 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 numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is one of the most culturally and historically pivotal.
- Approximately 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 known through grading or public sale.
- Its value and prestige are bolstered by its creator, contest background, and status as a high-end Pokémon collecting benchmark.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 example boasts higher subgrades than a previously graded Beckett version, including centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded copy aids in understanding the card's preservation rate and condition standards in the collecting world.
- Beckett's role ensures trusted authentication and documentation for this iconic card.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are associated with this card.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
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