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    Magneton LV.30 - Evolutions (Holo Rare) [30/108]

    English Pokémon TCG Magneton Holo Rare card from the Evolutions set, card number 30/108, featuring Ken Sugimori artwork.
    Average (4/10)
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    QUICK FACTS

    17

    Categories

    Trading Cards,Memorabilia,Collectibles

    Era

    2010s

    Origin

    🇺🇸 United States

    Brand

    Pokémon

    Artist/Maker

    Ken Sugimori

    Rarity

    Average (4/10)

    Discovered

    Jan 22, 2026

    1 months ago

    DESCRIPTION

    This is a "Magneton" Pokémon trading card, explicitly identified as a Stage 1 Pokémon evolving from Magnemite, with 80 HP. The artwork, by Ken Sugimori, features three Magneton units floating in what appears to be an electrified or sparkling background, indicative of its Electric/Steel typing. The card specifies its attacks as "Thunder Wave" (30 damage, with a chance to Paralyze) and "Self-Destruct" (80 damage, with self-inflicted damage). The card's set symbol and numbering identify it as a Holo Rare from the Evolutions set, specifically card 30/108, printed in English.

    CULTURAL ECHOES

    Where This Object Echoes

    Japanese Mythology/FolkloreShinto to modern era

    Magneton, like many Electric-type Pokémon, draws inspiration from Japanese folklore surrounding kami and yōkai associated with natural phenomena, particularly lightning and storms. Its metallic, industrial design also taps into the 'mecha' aesthetic prominent in Japanese popular culture.

    Electromagnetism/ScienceLate 19th Century to present

    The fundamental concept of Magneton's design, three Magnemite connected by magnetic forces, directly reflects the principles of electromagnetism, making it an accessible, engaging representation of scientific concepts for a young audience.

    Ritual & Ceremonial Use

    • •Collecting as a hobby: The pursuit of completing sets and acquiring rare variants forms a significant ritualistic aspect of the Pokémon TCG community.
    • •Strategic gameplay: Players engage in card battles, constructing decks and executing strategies based on card abilities, mirroring tactical games and competitive sports.
    • •Celebrating franchise milestones: The Evolutions set itself was a celebratory release for the Pokémon franchise's 20th anniversary, creating a 'ritual' of nostalgia and historical appreciation among fans.

    Meaning Through Time

    1990s-early 2000s (Base Set era)

    Magneton represented a powerful Stage 1 Pokémon, often used for its unique abilities and moderate damage output in competitive play. Its evolution from Magnemite was an early example of multi-stage creature design.

    2010s (Evolutions release)

    This particular Magneton card from the Evolutions set carries a strong nostalgic value, symbolizing the early days of the Pokémon TCG while being playable with modern rules. It's a bridge between the game's past and present.

    HISTORICAL STORY

    The Evolutions set, released in 2016, was designed as a modern reinterpretation of the original Base Set, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise. This Magneton card, therefore, pays homage to the classic design and mechanics of early Pokémon cards while incorporating ...
    The Evolutions set, released in 2016, was designed as a modern reinterpretation of the original Base Set, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise. This Magneton card, therefore, pays homage to the classic design and mechanics of early Pokémon cards while incorporating contemporary card frame elements. Magneton itself is an iconic Generation I Pokémon, known for its unique evolution concept where three Magnemite join together, reflecting early Pokémon design principles that often blended everyday objects with elemental themes.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    1

    Magneton's design is based on electromagnets, and its evolution from three Magnemite is a visual representation of magnetic polarity attracting and combining.

    2

    The Evolutions set, from which this card originates, was released to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Pokémon, reintroducing classic Base Set Pokémon with updated card layouts and mechanics.

    MATERIAL & CONDITION

    Surface

    The card exhibits a glossy holographic surface on the art portion, characteristic of a Holo Rare. The borders appear to be a standard matte card stock. Given the visible reflections, the surface integrity on the holographic area is crucial for condition.

    Weight & Feel

    Standard for a Pokémon trading card; lightweight and flexible but sturdy enough to maintain its form. Composed of several layers of paper and plastic.

    Condition

    Based on the image, the card appears to be in moderately played to near-mint raw condition. There's some visible edge wear, particularly on the bottom and right edges, and possibly some surface scratching discernible under direct light, though this isn't fully clear. The centering looks reasonable from the front, but a view of the back is needed for full assessment.

    RARITY ANALYSIS

    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

    EXPERT ANALYSIS

    Trading Card Market Analyst

    Card Specialist

    High confidence in identification of the card, set, rarity, and artist due to clear text, set symbol, and number. Confidence in condition and value is moderate given the limited view and image quality typical for raw cards.

    KEY EVIDENCE

    • 1Card text clearly identifies it as 'Magneton' with LV.30 and 80 HP.
    • 2Set code '30/108' and copyright '©2016 Pokémon' confirm it is from the 'XY—Evolutions' set.
    • 3The presence of a visible holographic pattern on the artwork indicates it is the 'Holo Rare' variant.
    • 4Artwork is identifiable as by Ken Sugimori, the primary Pokémon character designer.

    UNCERTAINTIES

    • •Back of the card is not visible, preventing assessment of back centering, edge wear, and any potential indentations or marks.
    • •Image quality is not high enough to definitively assess surface condition (e.g., micro-scratches, print lines) or pinpoint accuracy of edges and corners for grading potential.

    WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

    • →Provide clear, well-lit images of the card's back to assess centering and any back surface/edge wear.
    • →Take detailed close-up images of all four corners and edges to check for whitening or damage.
    • →Upload a video or image under angled light to inspect the holographic foil for scratches or print lines.
    • →Provide an image of the card inside a penny sleeve and top loader for safer handling and viewing.

    ESTIMATED VALUE

    $2 - $8

    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

    MO

    Momofthecircus

    The Connoisseur•91 items

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