Charmander (Base Set, #46/102) Pokémon Trading Card

    Vintage English Pokémon trading card featuring Charmander, from the original Base Set, on a wooden table.
    Average (4/10)
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    QUICK FACTS

    6

    Era

    late 1990s

    Origin

    🇺🇸 United States

    Artist/Maker

    Mitsuiro Arita

    Rarity

    Average (4/10)

    Discovered

    Jan 22, 2026

    3 weeks ago

    DESCRIPTION

    A vintage Pokémon trading card featuring Charmander, a 'Basic' Fire-type Pokémon, with 60 HP and attacks 'Scratch' and 'Ember.' The card displays the Pokémon's Pokédex number (004), classification (Lizard Pokémon), height, and weight. It is an English language card from the original Base Set.

    CULTURAL ECHOES

    Where This Object Echoes

    Japanese Mythology/FolkloreAncient to Modern

    Charmander, as a fire-breathing lizard, draws inspiration from various mythical reptiles and dragons found in folklore across different cultures.

    Fictional creatures (Kaiju/Fantasy)20th Century onwards

    The design of Pokémon like Charmander can be seen as part of a broader cultural fascination with unique fantastical beasts, similar to Kaiju in Japanese cinema or dragons in Western fantasy literature.

    Ritual & Ceremonial Use

    • The collection and trading of these cards among children and adults, often involving protective sleeving and diligent organization.
    • Engaging in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, which involves strategy and battling with opponent's cards.

    Meaning Through Time

    Late 1990s - Early 2000s

    Primarily a children's game and collectible, embodying the initial 'Pokémon craze' and the widespread appeal of the franchise.

    Mid-2000s - 2010s

    Continued as a game and collectible, but with a more established niche, appreciated by dedicated players and collectors.

    Late 2010s - Present

    Experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially vintage cards, transforming into a significant investment and valuable collectible category for many adults, driven by nostalgia and market speculation.

    HISTORICAL STORY

    The Pokémon Trading Card Game debuted in Japan in 1996 and was introduced to North America by Wizards of the Coast in 1999. The first English set, known as the 'Base Set,' is highly iconic and features the original 150 Pokémon, including Charmander, one of the starter Pokémon from the Kanto ...
    The Pokémon Trading Card Game debuted in Japan in 1996 and was introduced to North America by Wizards of the Coast in 1999. The first English set, known as the 'Base Set,' is highly iconic and features the original 150 Pokémon, including Charmander, one of the starter Pokémon from the Kanto region. These cards were central to the late 1990s and early 2000s Pokémon craze, becoming both a popular game and collectible item.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    1

    Charmander is one of the three original starter Pokémon, alongside Bulbasaur and Squirtle, offered to players at the beginning of their journey in the Pokémon Red and Blue video games.

    2

    The Base Set of the Pokémon TCG (of which this Charmander is a part) was so popular that it went through multiple print runs, with slight variations, including '1st Edition,' 'Shadowless,' and 'Unlimited' versions, each having different rarity and value.

    MATERIAL & CONDITION

    Surface

    The card has a smooth, glossy paperboard surface typical of trading cards. The artwork is printed in full color, and the text is black on a light background. There's a slight scuff or mark visible near the top left corner of the card's framing.

    Weight & Feel

    Lightweight, made of standard cardstock, typical for a trading card.

    Condition

    The card appears to be in played to near-mint condition. There is a visible crease or scuff mark on the top left border. The surface sheen is mostly intact, but potential edge wear, corner dings, or minor scratches are not fully discernible from the provided image quality. The overall color saturation looks good.

    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

    ESTIMATED VALUE

    $10 - $40

    Updated: Jan 25, 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 Connoisseur91 items

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