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Blaziken VMAX (Holo Rare) [021/198]

A holo Blaziken VMAX Pokemon card from the Chilling Reign set, number 021/198. - view 1
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Estimated value

$1 - $5

Rarity

Ordinary(3/10)

Category

Trading Cards

Brand

Pokémon

Era

2021

Origin

🇺🇸 United States

Artist / Creator

Akira Egawa

Authenticity

Very High(90%)
40

COLLECTOR'S BREAKDOWN: BLAZIKEN VMAX (HOLO RARE) [021/198]

This is a Triple Rare (RRR) Blaziken VMAX from the Chilling Reign expansion. The artwork by Akira Egawa features the Dynamaxed Fire/Fighting-type Pokémon in a powerful, flame-enshrouded pose. It's a 'Rapid Strike' style card with 320 HP, featuring the attacks 'Clutch' and 'Max Blaze'. The surface displays the standard vertical Holofoil pattern typical of English VMAX cards from the Sword & Shield era.

CULTURAL CARD LORE

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese MythologyEdo Period

Blaziken is inspired by the Basan, a legendary fire-breathing chicken-like monster from Japanese folklore.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

  • •Competitive TCG tournaments and local 'store championships' where deck-building strategy is a primary social activity.

Meaning Through Time

Modern (2020s)

VMAX cards symbolize the 'Dynamax' power-up mechanic, representing peak temporary power in a battle context.

CARD HISTORY & PRINT RUNS

Released in June 2021 as part of the Chilling Reign expansion (based on the Japanese 'Silver Lance' and 'Jet-Black Spirit' sets), this card marked the introduction of the Galar region's Dynamax mechanic for legacy starters like Blaziken. During its release, Blaziken VMAX was a focal point for the ...
Released in June 2021 as part of the Chilling Reign expansion (based on the Japanese 'Silver Lance' and 'Jet-Black Spirit' sets), this card marked the introduction of the Galar region's Dynamax mechanic for legacy starters like Blaziken. During its release, Blaziken VMAX was a focal point for the 'Rapid Strike' deck archetype, which was a dominant force in the competitive TCG scene due to its energy acceleration capabilities.

COLLECTOR INTEL

1

Blaziken is the first Fire-type starter Pokémon to have its design based on a chicken, specifically the Shamo breed of Japanese gamefowl.

2

The artist, Akira Egawa, is renowned in the hobby for creating high-intensity, painterly backgrounds that make Pokémon appear as if they are part of a larger cinematic scene.

HOW SCARCE IS IT?

Ordinary40-55%
CommonLegendary

Standard antiques commonly found at estate sales and flea markets. Plentiful supply meets modest demand.

Typical Characteristics

  • Moderate production runs
  • Common at estate sales
  • Entry-level collectibles

Confidence Factors

  • Font weight and holographic pattern are consistent with genuine Chilling Reign printing
  • Low market value for this specific rarity tier makes it a rare target for high-quality counterfeits
How does authenticity detection work?

GRADING EXPERT'S TAKE

Trading Card Market Analyst

Card Specialist

Identification is virtually certain based on the clear set numbering and artwork. The condition assessment is moderately confident based on multiple photos showing edge wear.

KEY EVIDENCE

  • 1Set logo for Chilling Reign (Sword & Shield era) visible in bottom left
  • 2Correct HP (320) and attack energy requirements for Blaziken VMAX 021/198
  • 3Standard vertical holo pattern present
  • 4Visible condition issues: heavy silvering/whitening on edges

UNCERTAINTIES

  • •Heavy surface glare in images obscures some fine details on the numbering
  • •Rough handling signs (soft corners) significantly reduce investment potential

WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

  • →Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently remove fingerprint oils from the surface
  • →Place the card in a penny sleeve and top-loader to prevent further edge degradation
  • →Verify the back centering; however, the frontal damage already caps the grade potential

CONDITION & GRADE

PSA 4-5

Grading breakdown

The grade is severely impacted by visible edge chipping and corner blunting. Significant surface wear and what appears to be minor creasing on the right edge would likely prevent a mid-to-high grade.

Condition

The images show significant corner wear and heavy 'whitening' on the edges, particularly visible against the dark borders. Several surface scratches are apparent under the direct light source.

Surface

Standard glossy finish with a vertical holographic foil pattern. The surface lacks the intricate 'thumbprint' etching found on higher-tier Secret Rare or Alternate Art versions.

Weight & feel

Typical 300gsm cardstock feel, consistent with modern Western Pokémon printing standards.

TRADING CARD MARKET VALUE

$1 - $5

Updated: Apr 8, 2026

Who buys this

Entry-level collectors or young fans looking to complete a basic set or play the card in a casual deck.

What increases value

  • •Popularity of Blaziken as a 'legacy' starter from the Hoenn region
  • •Functionality in 'Rapid Strike' gameplay formats

What lowers value

  • •High population count (standard RRR rarity is common in booster packs)
  • •Visible play-wear significantly devalues cards from this era

What makes top-tier examples

  • •Perfect centering (50/50 ratio)
  • •Zero whitening on the reverse blue border
  • •Alternative Art version (number 201/198) which is significantly more valuable

Grade & condition

Centering of the card frame, amount of white showing on corners, and presence of surface scratches.

Rarity & demand

OrdinaryModerate demandSells quickly
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For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.

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