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

QUICK FACTS
Categories
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
Charmander, as a fire-breathing lizard, draws inspiration from various mythical reptiles and dragons found in folklore across different cultures.
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
Primarily a children's game and collectible, embodying the initial 'Pokémon craze' and the widespread appeal of the franchise.
Continued as a game and collectible, but with a more established niche, appreciated by dedicated players and collectors.
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
DID YOU KNOW?
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.
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
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
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.
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