Poliwag Pokémon Base Set Trading Card (English)

Name: Poliwag Pokémon Base Set Trading Card (English)
Brand: Momofthecircus
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Poliwag Pokémon Base Set Trading Card, English, showing Poliwag and its attacks

Ordinary (3/10)

Add to Watchlist

QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

An English-language Pokémon trading card featuring Poliwag, a Water-type Pokémon. The card identifies Poliwag as a 'Tadpole Pokémon' with 60 HP at Level 13. Its primary attack is 'Water Gun' dealing 30 damage. The artwork depicts Poliwag with its characteristic spiral on its belly and small tadpole tail.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese Folklore20th-21st Century

The tadpole design elements of Poliwag, particularly the visible spiral intestine, draws from observations of real-world animals and the abstract representation common in Japanese character design.

Digital GamingLate 20th Century

The original concept for Pokémon cards emerged from the success of the Pokémon video games, creating a tangible, collectible extension of the digital world.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Collecting and trading: Players and collectors engage in the ritual of acquiring, exchanging, and organizing these cards to complete sets or build competitive decks.
•Gameplay: The cards are used in structured turn-based gameplay, involving strategic decisions and interactions.

Meaning Through Time

Late 1990s - Early 2000s

Initially seen primarily as a game piece and a collectible for children and teenagers, symbolizing engagement with a popular media franchise.

2010s - Present

Evolved into a significant collectible asset class for adults, with rare cards fetching high prices, indicating nostalgia and an investment aspect.

HISTORICAL STORY

The Poliwag card is from the Pokémon Trading Card Game, which was first released in Japan in 1996 and then internationally by Wizards of the Coast in 1999. This specific card, being English and featuring the early 'Poliwag' artwork and a plain border, is indicative of the Base Set or one of its ...

DID YOU KNOW?

Poliwag's design, including the swirling pattern on its belly, is inspired by tadpoles whose intestines are sometimes visible through their translucent skin.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game was originally designed by Media Factory in Japan before being localized for international markets, including its massive success in the United States.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The card has a smooth, glossy surface typical of collectible trading cards. Edges appear slightly worn. The artwork is printed in vibrant colors.

Weight & Feel

Extremely lightweight and thin, as expected for a standard trading card.

Condition

The card shows visible edge wear, particularly along the top and corners, suggesting it has been handled frequently or played with. There may be minor surface scratches not fully visible in the image.