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Curiosa

Nidoking - Japanese Base Set (Holo Rare) [No. 034]

Japanese 1996 Base Set Nidoking Holo Rare trading card in a clear plastic top-loader sleeve. - view 1
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Estimated value

$15 - $45

Rarity

Uncommon(5/10)

Category

Trading Cards

Brand

Pokémon

Era

1996

Origin

Japan

Artist / Creator

Ken Sugimori

Authenticity

Very High(90%)
40

NIDOKING - JAPANESE BASE SET (HOLO RARE) [NO. 034]: IDENTIFICATION

A Japanese Holo Rare card featuring Nidoking from the original 1996 Base Set expansion. The artwork by Ken Sugimori depicts the Stage 2 evolvement of Nidorino, featuring a cosmos-style holofoil pattern in the background. The card displays the character's typical 90 HP and Grass-type (Poison) classification used in the early TCG. This is the 'No Rarity' symbol variant equivalent from the early Japanese print runs, though standard for early Japanese sets.

SET RELEASE & PRINT RUN

Released in October 1996 as part of the Expansion Pack (Base Set) in Japan, this card predates the English release by over two years. The Japanese version features the 'Pocket Monsters Card Game' backing, distinct from the blue Pokémon back used internationally. This specific variant displays the ...
Released in October 1996 as part of the Expansion Pack (Base Set) in Japan, this card predates the English release by over two years. The Japanese version features the 'Pocket Monsters Card Game' backing, distinct from the blue Pokémon back used internationally. This specific variant displays the 5-pointed star rarity symbol in the bottom right corner, indicating a later print run than the elusive 'No Rarity' first printings.

SCARCITY

Uncommon70-80%
CommonLegendary

Genuine antiques with fewer examples on the market. Named makers, documented provenance, or early production examples.

Typical Characteristics

  • Limited production
  • Named makers
  • Growing collector demand

Confidence Factors

  • Correct text font and spacing for 1996 Japanese prints
  • Correct cosmos holofoil pattern for the era
  • Authentic 'Pocket Monsters' reverse side graphics
How does authenticity detection work?

GRADING EXPERT'S TAKE

Trading Card Market Analyst

Card Specialist

Clear images of both front and back allow for identification of the specific set, variant, and a realistic assessment of surface/edge condition.

KEY EVIDENCE

  • 1Japanese text correctly identifies attacks 'Thrash' (あばれる) and 'Toxic' (どくどく)
  • 2Set number 034 corresponds with the Japanese Pokedex-ordered Base Set
  • 3Presence of the star rarity symbol in the bottom right corner confirms print run
  • 4Authentic 1996 Nintendo/GameFreak copyright text at the bottom footer

UNCERTAINTIES

  • •Visible edge wear on the reverse side significantly impacts potential grading value

WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

  • →Inspect holofoil under a single-point light source for 'print lines' or vertical scratches
  • →Measurement of top/bottom centering on the front face
  • →Check for any indentation or 'creasing' not visible in current lighting

CONDITION & GRADE

PSA 5-6

Grading breakdown

Moderate silvering visible on the front borders and significant whitening on the reverse blue borders/corners prevent a higher grade. Centering appears slightly shifted toward the bottom.

Condition

The card shows visible whitening on the rear edges, particularly at the corners. The front holofoil surface appears relatively clean in photos but likely contains micro-scratching typical of unslabbed vintage cards.

TRADING CARD MARKET VALUE

$15 - $45

Updated: May 11, 2026

Who buys this

Vintage Pokémon collectors focusing on the Japanese 'Old Back' era and set completionists.

What increases value

  • •High nostalgia for the original 1996 Base Set
  • •Strong demand for Holo Rare cards in the 'Old Back' format

What lowers value

  • •Visible whitening on reverse dramatically reduces the grade ceiling
  • •High population of Japanese Base Set holos in the market

What makes top-tier examples

  • •Pristine 'No Rarity' symbol first printings
  • •Gem Mint PSA 10 population rarity
  • •Absence of horizontal print lines across the holofoil

Grade & condition

Edge whitening, corner dings, and surface scratching on the delicate foil.

Rarity & demand

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

FROM THE CABINET OF

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The Collector

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