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    Paldean Wooper - Paldean Fates (Special Illustration Rare) [PAL EN 221/193]

    Pokémon Paldean Wooper Special Illustration Rare card from Paldean Fates set, held in hand, showing holofoil effect.
    Rare (7/10)
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    QUICK FACTS

    21

    Categories

    Trading Cards,Memorabilia,Collectibles

    Era

    2020s

    Origin

    🇺🇸 United States

    Brand

    Pokémon

    Artist/Maker

    Miki Tanaka

    Rarity

    Rare (7/10)

    Discovered

    Jan 22, 2026

    1 months ago

    DESCRIPTION

    This is a Special Illustration Rare (SIR) of Paldean Wooper, card number 221/193 from the Paldean Fates Pokémon TCG expansion. The card features full-art illustration by Miki Tanaka that extends across the entire card face, depicting Paldean Wooper nestled in a muddy puddle. The card clearly exhibits a rainbow-esque holofoil effect typical of shiny Secret Rare cards, indicating its non-standard rarity.

    CULTURAL ECHOES

    Where This Object Echoes

    Japanese Mythology/FolkloreAncient to Modern

    Wooper's evolution, Quagsire, often likened to creatures from Japanese folklore known for their placid demeanor but surprising abilities.

    Iberian Peninsula BiologyModern biological observation

    Paldean Wooper is explicitly based on the Iberian ribbed newt, a creature native to regions that inspired the Paldea region in the Pokémon games, showcasing adaptive evolution.

    Ritual & Ceremonial Use

    • •Collecting and trading cards as a social activity and hobby.
    • •Participating in official Pokémon TCG tournaments and casual play.

    Meaning Through Time

    1990s-early 2000s

    Trading cards initially seen primarily as a children's game and collectible.

    2010s-Present

    Trading cards, especially rare variants, gaining significant recognition as investment-grade collectibles and cultural artifacts.

    HISTORICAL STORY

    The Paldean Fates set, released in early 2024, is notable for its 'shiny' Pokémon, featuring alternate color variations of beloved creatures, a trend that significantly impacts collector interest. Paldean Wooper itself was introduced in the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet video games, representing a ...
    The Paldean Fates set, released in early 2024, is notable for its 'shiny' Pokémon, featuring alternate color variations of beloved creatures, a trend that significantly impacts collector interest. Paldean Wooper itself was introduced in the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet video games, representing a regional variant of the classic Wooper, adapted to the Paldea region's environment. The 'Fates' sets are typically highly sought after due to their inclusion of many chase shiny cards, similar to previous 'Hidden Fates' and 'Shining Fates' expansions.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    1

    Paldean Wooper's design is based on the Iberian ribbed newt, which secretes a toxic mucus as a defense mechanism, directly influencing its typing and lore in the Pokémon world.

    2

    Special Illustration Rares (SIRs) like this Paldean Wooper are among the hardest cards to pull from booster packs, making them highly desirable for collectors and competitive players alike.

    MATERIAL & CONDITION

    Surface

    The card has a smooth, glossy surface with a prominent holofoil treatment that reflects light in a rainbow gradient across the illustration, characteristic of a 'shiny' or 'secret rare' card type. The texture appears clean from the provided image.

    Weight & Feel

    Standard for a Pokémon trading card, lightweight and flexible, made of cardstock with a foil layer.

    Condition

    Based on the image, the card appears to be in near-mint to mint condition. Centering looks acceptable, and there are no immediately visible creases, dents, or edge wear. However, a full assessment would require examining the card back and under direct light.

    RARITY ANALYSIS

    Rare90-95%
    CommonLegendary

    Exceptional items that serious collectors actively seek. Only a handful appear at major auctions each year.

    Typical Characteristics

    • Few examples at auction yearly
    • Specialist dealer networks
    • Strong collector competition

    EXPERT ANALYSIS

    Trading Card Market Analyst

    Card Specialist

    Confidence is high given the clear identification of the card, set, rarity, and artist from the provided images. The holofoil pattern is typical for this type of card, and no obvious discrepancies are noted.

    KEY EVIDENCE

    • 1Card identified as 'Paldean Wooper' from the Paldean Fates set (PAL EN 221/193).
    • 2Characterized as a Special Illustration Rare (SIR) due to the full art and prominent holofoil.
    • 3Artwork credits Miki Tanaka, consistent with official releases.
    • 4Card appears to be English language based on text.
    • 5Condition appears to be near-mint to mint from visible surfaces.

    WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

    • →High-resolution scan of the card's front and back to assess centering and any micro-scratches.
    • →Examination of edges and corners under magnification for any wear or whitening.
    • →Angled light inspection to check for surface imperfections or indentations.
    • →Compare the card to known authentic copies for print consistency and color vibrancy.

    ESTIMATED VALUE

    $15 - $40

    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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