What’s New
Another copy of the historically significant Illustrator Pikachu card has been authenticated and graded by Beckett Collectibles. This card, a cornerstone in the Pokémon trading card world, received a Mint 9 grade from Beckett Grading Services (BGS), underscoring its excellent preservation. Beckett continues its tradition of certifying important collectibles, with previous Illustrator Pikachu cards having been graded similarly.
The Illustrator Pikachu was originally a prize for winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, making it stand out from regular Pokémon TCG releases. Atsuko Nishida, the original artist of Pikachu, illustrated this unique card.
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: Achieved a Mint 9 from Beckett Grading Services (BGS)
- Population: Believed to have around 101 copies, with 41 publicly known or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance and original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No traditional inserts or parallels; this card is a unique promotional item
- Its distinct status comes from its distribution through contests and non-standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia associated with the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card's importance is linked to its origin, artwork, and contest history
Collector Notes
- Although not the rarest in sheer numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is considered one of the most culturally and historically important Pokémon cards.
- Believed to have around 101 copies, with 41 known through grading or public sales.
- Its value and prestige are enhanced by its creator, contest origins, and status as a high-end Pokémon collecting benchmark.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 card received superior subgrades compared to a previously graded Beckett copy, including centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded example helps assess the card’s survival rate and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett's certification provides reliable authentication and documentation for this iconic piece.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked to this card.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
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