Magikarp Pokémon Trading Card (2018)

Name: Magikarp Pokémon Trading Card (2018)
Brand: Momofthecircus
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Bottom of Magikarp Pokémon trading card, facing up on a wooden surface.

Ordinary (3/10)

Add to Watchlist

QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A single Pokémon trading card depicting Magikarp, a Basic Fish Pokémon. The card features artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita and is from the 'Basic' stage with 30 HP. Its attack is 'Flail', dealing 10x damage counters. The card is yellow-bordered, indicating it's a standard Pokémon TCG card, and includes its weakness (Lightning x2) and retreat cost (1). A copyright date of ©2018 is visible.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese MythologyAncient to present

Magikarp's journey from a weak fish to a powerful dragon-like creature (Gyarados) mirrors the ancient Asian myth of a carp swimming upstream to become a dragon.

Fable & FolkloreTimeless

The character embodies themes of perseverance and hidden potential, common in fables where unassuming characters achieve greatness through effort.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•The 'ritual' of evolving a Magikarp in the Pokémon game series, investing time and effort into a seemingly weak creature to unlock its powerful final form.
•The act of collecting, sorting, and trading these cards among enthusiasts, building personal collections and participating in a shared cultural activity.

Meaning Through Time

Late 1990s - Early 2000s (Initial Release)

Magikarp was often seen as a comedic or frustrating Pokémon due to its weakness, a 'meme' before the term was widely used.

Present Day

Magikarp has become an endearing symbol of underdog potential and dedication, celebrated for its journey more than its initial power. Its iconic status has also made it desirable for collectors, particularly early printings.

HISTORICAL STORY

Pokémon trading cards originated in Japan in 1996 and were introduced to North America in 1999. They quickly became a global phenomenon, combining strategic gameplay with collecting. Magikarp, a seemingly weak but evolvable Pokémon, is an iconic character known for its persistence and the powerful ...

DID YOU KNOW?

Magikarp is infamous among Pokémon fans for its perceived uselessness in battle, often only knowing the move 'Splash' which does nothing.

Despite its weaknesses, Magikarp evolves into the formidable sea serpent Gyarados, a dramatic transformation symbolizing great potential found in unexpected places.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The card has a smooth, slightly glossy paper surface with vibrant colors for the illustration and text. The borders appear matte.

Weight & Feel

Extremely lightweight and thin, typical of a standard trading card.

Condition

The card appears to be in good condition with minor visible wear, indicated by some light scuffing or dust on the surface, but no major creases or damage are apparent. The edges and corners seem mostly intact.