Azumarill - Steam Siege (Ancient Trait / Shiny) [77/114]

Estimated value
$2 - $12Rarity
Ordinary(3/10)Category
Trading CardsBrand
PokémonEra
2016Origin
🇺🇸 United StatesArtist / Creator
Sanosuke SakumaAuthenticity
AZUMARILL - STEAM SIEGE (ANCIENT TRAIT / SHINY) [77/114]: IDENTIFICATION
A Dual Type Stage 1 Azumarill from the XY Steam Siege expansion. This specific variant is notable for its 'Shiny' coloration—featuring a golden-yellow body rather than the standard blue—and its 'Ancient Trait' (Theta Stop) indicated by the extended artwork frame and specific icon. The card's background features a split pink and blue color scheme, reflecting its Fairy and Water typing during the XY era. The artwork by Sanosuke Sakuma depicts the Aqua Rabbit Pokémon leaping through bubbles in a glittery, starry environment.
Compare with other trading cards in the archive: Kirlia - BREAKthrough (Uncommon) [63/162], Cavallone Tropicale (Tropical Tidal Wave) - Italian 2006 World Championships Promo #36, Vegeta - Dramatic Art (Ultra God Mission 5) [UGM5-020 DA].
CROSS-CULTURAL PARALLELS
Where This Object Echoes
Azumarill's design is heavily influenced by the 'Moon Rabbit' (Tsuki no Usagi) myth, often associated with water and longevity.
Ritual & Ceremonial Use
- •Competitive TCG gameplay where 'Ancient Traits' provided tactical immunity to opponent's abilities.
Meaning Through Time
Azumarill was viewed purely as a Water-type utility character.
Became a symbol of the new Fairy-type dragon-slaying meta in both the video games and cards.
SET RELEASE & PRINT RUN
SCARCITY
Standard antiques commonly found at estate sales and flea markets. Plentiful supply meets modest demand.
Rarity 3/10. Curiosa currently catalogues 155 trading cards items at rarity 3 or higher.
Typical Characteristics
- Moderate production runs
- Common at estate sales
- Entry-level collectibles
Confidence Factors
- Correct font sizing and spacing for the XY era
- Correct set symbol and numbering for Steam Siege
- Material and wear patterns are consistent with authentic 2016 cardstock
GRADING EXPERT'S TAKE
Trading Card Market Analyst
Identification is highly certain due to the clear visibility of the set number, artist credits, and unique card mechanics like the Ancient Trait. Condition is estimated based on visible corner wear.
KEY EVIDENCE
- 1Confirmed set code '77/114' corresponds exactly to the Steam Siege Azumarill rare.
- 2Dual-type pink/blue border confirms XY era authenticity.
- 3Presence of 'Theta Stop' Ancient Trait symbol at the top right of the text box.
- 4Shiny yellow coloration is the intended artistic choice for this specific set number.
UNCERTAINTIES
- •Visible whitening on the back-side edges (inferred from front edge quality) could drop the grade significantly if submitting for professional service.
WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY
- →Check the back of the card for more extensive whitening or 'silvering'.
- →Place in a penny sleeve and top-loader to prevent further edge degradation.
- →Use a bright light at an angle to check for surface scratches or 'waxing' from the original pack.
CONDITION & GRADE
Grading breakdown
Significant corner whitening visible on the bottom right and slight roughness on the top edge prevent a Mint grade. Centering is roughly 65/35.
Condition
The card shows visible whitening on the bottom right corner and some edge wear. The centering appears slightly heavy toward the left and bottom borders.
TRADING CARD MARKET VALUE
Updated: Apr 8, 2026
Who buys this
Completionist set collectors for Steam Siege and 'Shiny' Pokémon enthusiasts.
What increases value
- •The 'Shiny' variant status
- •The 'Ancient Trait' artwork style which is visually distinct from standard rares
What lowers value
- •Steam Siege is generally considered one of the 'lower demand' sets of the XY era
- •Condition issues like corner whitening severely cap the ceiling for raw cards
What makes top-tier examples
- •PSA 10 Gem Mint status
- •Perfect centering on the dual-colored frame
Grade & condition
Edge whitening, surface scratching, and centering of the artwork within the yellow borders.
Rarity & demand
For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.
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MORE BY SANOSUKE SAKUMA
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