Clefairy - Base Set (Unlimited Edition) [5/102]

QUICK FACTS
Categories
Era
Late 1990s
Origin
🇺🇸 United States
Artist/Maker
Ken SugimoriRarity
Average (4/10)
Discovered
Jan 22, 2026
1 months ago
DESCRIPTION
This is a Pokemon Trading Card Game card featuring Clefairy, specifically the Base Set version. The card is a "Basic" Pokémon with 40 HP and LV. 14. It has two attacks: "Sing" and "Metronome." The artwork, created by Ken Sugimori, depicts Clefairy in its classic pink, fairy-like form. Based on the lack of a 1st Edition stamp and the general appearance, this appears to be from the Unlimited print run of the English Base Set.
CULTURAL ECHOES
Where This Object Echoes
Clefairy’s design draws inspiration from mythical fairies and sprites, creatures often associated with moonlight, magic, and hidden realms in folklore across various cultures.
As one of the original 'cute' Pokémon, Clefairy embodies the Japanese aesthetic of 'kawaii,' a cultural fascination with endearing and charming characters that became globally influential.
Ritual & Ceremonial Use
- •No specific rituals or ceremonies directly tied to Clefairy, but it plays a role in the 'collecting ritual' of identifying and completing sets, and the 'playing ritual' within the TCG.
- •In the anime, Clefairy were depicted gathering and dancing under the full moon, absorbing moonlight, which aligns with folkloric traditions of fae creatures and lunar influence.
Meaning Through Time
Clefairy was initially positioned as a key, somewhat mysterious Pokémon, even being considered for the franchise mascot, representing the whimsical and hidden aspects of the Pokémon world.
While still beloved, Clefairy's prominence shifted as new generations introduced a wider array of Pokémon. Its role became more of a classic, nostalgic character rather than a front-liner.
HISTORICAL STORY
DID YOU KNOW?
Clefairy was originally intended to be the mascot for the Pokémon franchise, not Pikachu, but Pikachu was ultimately chosen due to its broader appeal to both boys and girls.
The Base Set Clefairy card is one of the few cards from the early sets that has a visible print line running horizontally across its artwork, a common manufacturing imperfection on these early prints.
MATERIAL & CONDITION
Surface
The card appears to have a standard matte finish typical of early Pokémon cards. The surface shows some visible wear, particularly scuffing around the edges and possibly some light scratching on the face, consistent with a raw card from this era.
Weight & Feel
Lightweight, consistent with a standard trading card made of layered paperboard. Its small size makes it easily handled.
Condition
The card shows moderate play wear. Edges appear to have some whitening, and corners may be soft. Surface appears to have some minor scratches or scuffs, especially noticeable in the holo area (if this were a holo rare, which it is not). Centering seems off, potentially heavier on the right side.
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
EXPERT ANALYSIS
Trading Card Market Analyst
The visible text and artwork clearly identify this as a Clefairy Base Set Unlimited card. The set number is partially visible, aligning with a known card from that set. Confidence is strong but slightly tempered by the inability to view the card's reverse side or assess minute condition details from the provided image.
KEY EVIDENCE
- 1Card title 'Clefairy' and "Basic" type.
- 240 HP, LV.14, and attack descriptions ('Sing', 'Metronome') are consistent with Base Set Clefairy.
- 3Illustrated by Ken Sugimori, as indicated on the card.
- 4Lack of '1st Edition' stamp, typical of Unlimited print runs.
- 5Set number '5/102' partially visible at the bottom right, confirming Base Set identification.
UNCERTAINTIES
- •The overall image quality and lighting make it difficult to assess detailed surface condition, such as minor scratches or indentations.
- •Only one side of the card is visible, preventing an assessment of back centering and edge wear on the reverse.
WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY
- →Higher resolution images of the front, particularly close-ups of the corners and edges.
- →An image of the back of the card to assess wear, print quality, and centering.
- →Angled lighting to check for subtle surface imperfections or indentations.
- →Use of a transparent ruler or grading tool to measure centering precisely.
ESTIMATED VALUE
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.
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