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    Pikachu (Foil) - XY Base Set (46/162)

    Pikachu holographic Pokémon card from the XY Base Set, displaying visible surface damage.
    Ordinary (3/10)
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    QUICK FACTS

    16

    Categories

    Trading Cards,Memorabilia,Collectibles

    Era

    Mid-2010s

    Origin

    🇺🇸 United States

    Brand

    Pokémon

    Artist/Maker

    Kouki Saitou

    Rarity

    Ordinary (3/10)

    Discovered

    Jan 22, 2026

    1 months ago

    DESCRIPTION

    This is a Basic Pikachu Pokémon trading card, specifically the 46/162 variant from the XY Base Set. The card featured is a rare foil version, evidenced by the reflective surface across the card art and text area, although the exact foil pattern isn't perfectly clear. It possesses 60 HP, two attacks ('Gnaw' and 'Agility'), and standard weaknesses and resistances. The artwork depicts Pikachu in a natural, forest-like environment, an iconic pose for the character.

    CULTURAL ECHOES

    Where This Object Echoes

    Japanese Mythology/FolkloreEdo period to modern day

    Pikachu, while an original creation, embodies the 'kawaii' (cute) aesthetic prevalent in Japanese folk art and contemporary character design, often seen in small, animal-like protective spirits or companions.

    Ritual & Ceremonial Use

    • •The 'collecting, trading, and battling' ritual deeply embedded in the Pokémon TCG (Trading Card Game) community serves as a cultural practice, fostering social interaction and strategic thinking among players.
    • •The act of 'pulling' a rare card, like this foil Pikachu, from a booster pack creates a ritual of excitement and discovery, central to the collecting experience.

    Meaning Through Time

    1990s-early 2000s

    Pikachu primarily symbolized a new frontier in transmedia entertainment, representing the cutting edge of digital creatures and interactive media for a young generation.

    2010s-Present

    Pikachu has evolved into a global icon representing innocence, determination, and the enduring power of friendship, transcending its origin as a video game character to become a universal pop culture symbol.

    HISTORICAL STORY

    The XY Base Set was released in 2014, marking the beginning of the XY series in the Pokémon Trading Card Game. This set introduced new game mechanics like Mega Evolution and Fairy type Pokémon. Pikachu, as the franchise's mascot, is almost always featured in every set. This particular foil variant ...
    The XY Base Set was released in 2014, marking the beginning of the XY series in the Pokémon Trading Card Game. This set introduced new game mechanics like Mega Evolution and Fairy type Pokémon. Pikachu, as the franchise's mascot, is almost always featured in every set. This particular foil variant of Pikachu would have been a relatively common 'pull' for a holographic card in its era, but its condition will heavily dictate its value now.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    1

    Pikachu's design, initially based on a squirrel, was changed to a mouse-like creature after designers emphasized the need for a 'cute' companion for the player.

    2

    Despite being a Basic Pokémon in the game, Pikachu is often depicted as exceptionally powerful and resilient in the anime and movies, embodying the spirit of friendship and perseverance.

    MATERIAL & CONDITION

    Surface

    The card exhibits a glossy, holographic surface, typical of foil rare cards from the era. There are visible signs of wear, including creasing or surface scratching, especially over the character art and along the central area, which impacts the visual integrity of the foil finish.

    Weight & Feel

    Standard for a Pokémon trading card, lightweight and flexible, approximately 1-2 grams. The foil material does not significantly alter its heft.

    Condition

    The card appears to be in moderately played to heavily played condition. Multiple creases, scrapes, or indentations are visible on the surface, particularly over the artwork. Edges and corners show wear consistent with unprotected handling and use, though precise corner condition cannot be fully assessed from these images.

    RARITY ANALYSIS

    Ordinary40-55%
    CommonLegendary

    Standard antiques commonly found at estate sales and flea markets. Plentiful supply meets modest demand.

    Typical Characteristics

    • Moderate production runs
    • Common at estate sales
    • Entry-level collectibles

    EXPERT ANALYSIS

    Trading Card Market Analyst

    Card Specialist

    Confidence is high for identification based on clearly legible text, set number, and visual characteristics consistent with the XY Base Set. However, assessing the precise condition is challenging due to image quality, leading to a slight reduction in overall certainty for valuation.

    KEY EVIDENCE

    • 1Card Name: Pikachu
    • 2HP: 60
    • 3Set Number/Total Set: 46/162
    • 4Copyright Year: ©2014 Pokémon / Nintendo
    • 5Artist credit: Kouki Saitou
    • 6Foil treatment visible on the card surface

    UNCERTAINTIES

    • •Surface damage and creasing significantly impact condition and potential grade.
    • •Exact foil pattern and full edge/corner condition are not entirely clear from the provided images.

    WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

    • →Provide clearer, high-resolution images of the card's front and back, focusing on the holo pattern and print quality.
    • →Submit the card for professional grading to accurately assess its condition and authenticate its foil variant.
    • →Examine under direct, angled light to better asses surface integrity and identify any further scratches or indentations.

    ESTIMATED 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

    MO

    Momofthecircus

    The Connoisseur•91 items

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