Chimchar (Basic) - XY—Steam Siege (Reverse Holo Rare) [18/114]

Name: Chimchar (Basic) - XY—Steam Siege (Reverse Holo Rare) [18/114]
Brand: Momofthecircus
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Pokémon TCG Chimchar card from the XY Steam Siege set, 18/114, showing the basic Fire-type Pokémon.

Estimated value

$1 - $5

Rarity

Average(4/10)

COLLECTOR'S BREAKDOWN: CHIMCHAR (BASIC) - XY—STEAM SIEGE (REVERSE HOLO RARE) [18/114]

This is a Pokémon TCG card depicting the Basic Pokémon Chimchar, from the XY—Steam Siege expansion. The card features Chimchar, a Fire-type Pokémon, with 60 HP. Its attacks are 'Scratch' for 10 damage and 'Ember' for 30 damage, with Ember having an additional effect. The card's artwork, illustrated by Shibuzoh., shows Chimchar looking playful amidst a smoky, industrial-like background. The reverse holo pattern is evident across the card's entire surface, excluding the artwork box.

CULTURAL CARD LORE

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese FolkloreClassic to modern adaptations

Chimchar's evolutionary line culminates in Infernape, a Fire/Fighting type, which draws inspiration from Wukong, the Monkey King from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, a figure widely recognized and adapted in Japanese culture as well.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•The 'flip a coin' mechanic on Chimchar's 'Ember' attack is a classic example of chance-based gameplay elements in the Pokémon TCG, adding an element of risk and excitement to each turn's combat decisions, a ritualistic part of many card games.
•Collecting and trading cards, particularly 'basic' Pokémon like Chimchar, is a common social ritual among children and enthusiasts, fostering community and exchange.

Meaning Through Time

Early TCG (1990s-2000s)

Basic Pokémon like Chimchar were primarily seen as foundational pieces for evolving into stronger cards, essential for deck synergy.

Modern TCG (2010s-Present)

While still foundational, some basic Pokémon have seen competitive play with specific abilities, and low-rarity cards like this Chimchar gain value through complete set collection and condition.

CARD HISTORY & PRINT RUNS

The XY—Steam Siege expansion, identifiable by the set symbol (a gear next to a flame), was released in August 2016. This set introduced new Dual-Type Pokémon and focused on the mythical Pokémon Volcanion. Chimchar, a starter Pokémon from the Sinnoh region (Generation IV), is a consistent fan favorite, often featured in various sets. Its inclusion in Steam Siege provided a basic evolution stage for players using Fire-type decks from this era.

COLLECTOR INTEL

Chimchar is based on a chimpanzee and its name is a portmanteau of 'chimpanzee' and 'char', referring to its fiery abilities.

The XY—Steam Siege set is notable for its unique Dual-Type Pokémon cards, a mechanic that allowed Pokémon to have two types simultaneously, adding strategic depth to gameplay.

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

Common card type with low value, making counterfeiting less profitable.
Nintendo copyright visible, consistent with authentic cards.
Standard card design, text, and artwork for the given set.

How does authenticity detection work?

GRADING EXPERT'S TAKE

Trading Card Market Analyst

Card Specialist

The visible set stamp, card number, character, and artist attribution are clear and consistent, allowing for high confidence in identification. Condition assessment is based on observable surface wear and edge-whitening.

KEY EVIDENCE

1Identified as 'Chimchar' Basic Pokémon with '60 HP'.
2Set logo for XY—Steam Siege (gear flame symbol) visible at bottom right.
3Card number 18/114 indicates its position within the set.
4Holo pattern present across the card, identifying it as a reverse holo variant.
5Artist credit 'Illus. Shibuzoh.' is clear.
6©2016 Pokémon is visible, confirming the print year.

WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

→Obtain high-resolution images of the back of the card to assess back centering and any reverse-side wear.
→Inspect the card under angled light to detect any additional surface scratches or indentations.
→Utilize a loupe (magnifying glass) to examine edges and corners for micro-whitening or fraying.
→Consider professional grading for an accurate condition assessment if higher value is suspected, though unlikely for this specific card.

CONDITION & GRADE

Condition

The card shows light play wear, with some minor edge whitening visible, particularly on the bottom and right edges from the front perspective. The surface has faint scratches. Centering appears fairly good for a mass-produced card.

Surface

The card has a glossy, holographic finish across the entire card face, outside of the illustration window, indicating it is a reverse holo variant. There's some visible surface wear and minor scratching, typical of an unsleeved card.