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Iron Moth - Scarlet & Violet: Paradox Rift (Holo Rare) [028/182]

English Pokémon TCG card, Iron Moth Holo Rare 028/182 from Paradox Rift, featuring a futuristic moth-like creature. - view 1
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Estimated value

$1 - $5

Rarity

Average(4/10)

Category

Trading Cards

Brand

Pokémon

Era

2023

Origin

🇺🇸 United States

Artist / Creator

Kouki Saitou

Authenticity

Very High(85%)
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COLLECTOR'S BREAKDOWN: IRON MOTH - SCARLET & VIOLET: PARADOX RIFT (HOLO RARE) [028/182]

This is a "Holo Rare" variant of the Iron Moth Pokémon card from the English-language Scarlet & Violet: Paradox Rift expansion. The card features a vibrant illustration of the Paradox Pokémon, Iron Moth, by Kouki Saitou, displaying its circular body and fiery wing patterns. The entire card's artwork and text box are adorned with a holographic shimmer, indicating its rarity tier within the set structure. It's a Basic Pokémon with 130 HP, belonging to the 'Future' designation, and features the Ability 'Thermal Reactor' and the attack 'Heat Ray'.

CULTURAL CARD LORE

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese Folklore / EntomologyContemporary

Iron Moth's design draws inspiration from real-world moths and the legendary Volcarona. The 'Paradox Pokémon' concept itself relates to speculative evolution and futuristic interpretations found in science fiction.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

  • Pokémon TCG competitive play, where players strategically build decks and battle using various cards.
  • Collector archiving, where cards like this are preserved in binders or display cases to complete sets or showcase artwork.

Meaning Through Time

Early 2000s

Trading cards like Pokémon were primarily seen as children's toys or simple collectibles, valued for gameplay and character appeal.

2010s-Present

With increasing rarity and graded card markets, certain Pokémon cards have evolved into significant investment assets and highly sought-after collector's items, appreciated for rarity, condition, and art.

CARD HISTORY & PRINT RUNS

Iron Moth was introduced in the Scarlet and Violet video games as a Paradox Pokémon, representing a future descendant of Volcarona. Its inclusion in the 'Paradox Rift' expansion brings these future-themed Pokémon to the TCG, bridging the video game lore with the card game. The Paradox Rift set, ...
Iron Moth was introduced in the Scarlet and Violet video games as a Paradox Pokémon, representing a future descendant of Volcarona. Its inclusion in the 'Paradox Rift' expansion brings these future-themed Pokémon to the TCG, bridging the video game lore with the card game. The Paradox Rift set, released in November 2023, introduced new mechanics and themes, including the 'Ancient' and 'Future' distinctions for Pokémon, setting a fresh direction for the game's competitive meta.

COLLECTOR INTEL

1

Iron Moth is a 'Future' Paradox Pokémon, appearing in the future-themed 'Paradox Rift' set, contrasting with 'Ancient' Paradox Pokémon found in the same expansion.

2

The artist, Kouki Saitou, is known for their distinctive clean linework and vibrant color palettes that often highlight the Pokémon's unique characteristics, frequently illustrating energy and motion.

HOW SCARCE IS IT?

Average55-70%
CommonLegendary

Typical antique shop fare. Requires some searching but regularly available. This is where most genuine antiques fall.

Typical Characteristics

  • Standard antique shop items
  • Regularly available
  • Moderate collector interest

Confidence Factors

  • The card's design, typography, and holographic pattern are consistent with legitimate English Pokémon TCG cards.
  • The set code 'PAR' and card number '028/182' align with the Paradox Rift expansion.
  • Holo Rare cards of this type are not frequently counterfeited due to their low market value relative to production costs of fakes.
How does authenticity detection work?

GRADING EXPERT'S TAKE

Trading Card Market Analyst

Card Specialist

High confidence in identification due to clear visibility of all key identifiers: Pokémon name, set name (Paradox Rift), set symbol, set code (PAR), and card number (028/182). Rarity (Holo Rare) is confirmed by the holographic pattern.

KEY EVIDENCE

  • 1Identifiable as "Iron Moth" from the Pokémon TCG.
  • 2Card number 028/182 and set code 'PAR' confirm it's from the Scarlet & Violet: Paradox Rift expansion.
  • 3Holographic finish on the entire card art and text box signifies a 'Holo Rare' rarity tier.
  • 4English language card indication by text and symbols.
  • 5Illustrated by Kouki Saitou, as credited on the card.

WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

  • Provide an image of the card's back to assess back centering and identify any edge wear.
  • Provide a detailed close-up image of the card surface under angled light to check for micro-scratches or print defects.
  • Consider professional grading for definitive condition verification and authentication, especially if interested in long-term value.

CONDITION & GRADE

Condition

Based on the images, the card appears to be in near-mint condition. The corners are sharp, edges show no obvious whitening or wear, and the surface displays no visible scratches, scuffs, or indentations. Centering appears good, but a full assessment would require a back image.

Surface

The card exhibits a glossy, iridescent surface across the entire illustration and text areas, characteristic of a holographic rare print. The border and corners appear sharp, with a smooth, unblemished finish suggesting minimal handling.

Weight & feel

Typical lightweight cardstock, consistent with standard Pokémon TCG booster pack cards. Feels slightly rigid but flexible.

TRADING CARD MARKET VALUE

$1 - $5

Updated: Feb 27, 2026

  • Market comparables from auctions & retail
  • Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
  • Current collector demand & trends
  • Low = quick sale, high = patient seller

For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.

FROM THE CABINET OF

AD

adeboer

Fellow Collector25 items

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