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Collecting Pokémon cards can be a fun and rewarding hobby, especially if you understand the basics and dynamics of the game. Generally, if you want to be a successful collector, there are rare cards that you need to have in your collection. While there are many ways to get cards – from packs and booster boxes at the store to singles traded with friends – some of the most coveted cards are the rarest ones. Here are four rare Pokémon cards that every avid collector should have in their collection.
The Mewtwo Cards
When it comes to these cards, different versions are considered to be rare. In 1999, the Pokemon Base Set 1st Edition Shadowless Holo Mewtwo card was released. This card is considered to be the rarest and most valuable Mewtwo card. It’s thought that only about 20-39 of these cards exist, making them extremely rare and valuable.
There are many different versions of Mewtwo cards out there that you can try to collect. However, start by gathering online information on the value of the cards, which will guide you on what to focus your efforts on first. A good site will provide information on the top Mewtwo Pokemon cards you can go for. When going through, look at the cost factor and rarity. Understand also a bit of the history behind the card. This will ensure you get the most sought-after Mewtwo cards in your collection.
The Original Pikachu Illustration Card
This card is often called the “holy grail” of Pokémon cards. It was created in 1998 as a promotional item and given out to participants of the Japanese CoroCoro Comic Illustration Contest. Only 20-39 of these cards are thought to exist, making it one of the rarest Pokémon cards. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these cards, it could be worth many dollars.
What makes this card so special is that it features Pikachu with a unique illustration created by Atsuko Nishida, one of the original Pokémon designers. The image on this card has never been used on any other Pokémon card, making it a true rarity.
Prerelease Raichu
It was given to participants of pre-release tournaments for the Pokémon Trading Card Game back in 1999. These tournaments were held before the Pokémon TCG expansion, Base Set 2.
There are only about 10-15 Prerelease Raichu cards in existence, making it one of the rarest cards around. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these cards, it could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
When it comes to Prerelease cards, the value is often determined by how well the card was designed. The Prerelease Raichu card features an excellent design with vibrant colors and a cool holographic effect.
Celebi Venusaur

This card was released as a promotional item in 2001 and was given out to participants of the Japan Pokémon Card Game Official Tournament. It’s thought that only about 10-15 of these cards exist, making it one of the rarest cards around.
The Celebi Venusaur card is unique because it’s a holographic card that features two Pokémon – Celebi and Venusaur. This makes it a must-have for any avid collector. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these cards, it could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
These are just four of the rarest and most valuable Pokémon cards. If you’re an avid collector, then make sure to add these cards to your collection. May the above prices also inspire you to buy pokemon cards online, where steal deals happen most of the time. While they may be hard to find, they’re worth the effort.