Pokémon Base Set Sandshrew (Shadowless)

Name: Pokémon Base Set Sandshrew (Shadowless)
Brand: Momofthecircus
Availability: LimitedAvailability

English Pokémon Base Set Sandshrew trading card, shadowless edition, featuring the Ground-type Pokémon with its Sand Attack move. - view 1

1/2

Uncommon (5/10)

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A collectible trading card featuring the Pokémon Sandshrew. This is a "shadowless" variant from the original Pokémon English Base Set, distinguished by the lack of a drop shadow on the right side of the illustration window, and a thinner font for the HP and Pokémon name at the top. The card shows Sandshrew, a Ground-type Pokémon, with its 'Sand Attack' move. It is an English language card.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese FolkloreModern

Many Pokémon designs, including Sandshrew, draw inspiration from real-world animals, mythological creatures, and yokai (supernatural beings) from Japanese folklore.

Collectibles Culture (worldwide)Late 20th Century - Present

The phenomenon of collecting trading cards, especially those tied to popular media franchises like Pokémon, mirrors broader collecting trends across various cultures and demographics.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Trading and battling: Players engage in social rituals of exchanging cards and competing in strategic battles.
•Display and organization: Collectors often meticulously sort, protect, and display their cards in binders or graded slabs.

Meaning Through Time

Late 1990s - Early 2000s

Initially seen primarily as a children's game and toy, contributing to the early Pokémon craze.

Mid-2000s - 2010s

Evolved into a more structured competitive game with continued collector interest in rare and older cards.

2020s - Present

Experienced a resurgence in popularity, with early cards, especially rare variants, gaining significant value as investments and nostalgic collectibles for adults.

HISTORICAL STORY

The Pokémon Trading Card Game was first released in Japan in 1996 and was brought to North America by Wizards of the Coast in 1999. The initial English release, known as the 'Base Set,' had several print runs. The very first print run, often referred to as 'shadowless' by collectors, is notable ...

DID YOU KNOW?

Sandshrew's design is inspired by the pangolin, an armored mammal known for rolling into a ball for defense.

The 'shadowless' distinction is a key identifying factor for the rare first print run of the Base Set, making these cards highly sought after by collectors.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The card has a smooth, glossy surface typical of trading cards. The colors appear vibrant despite some uneven lighting in the image.

Weight & Feel

Lightweight, consistent with a standard trading card.

Condition

Due to the image quality and lighting, exact condition is difficult to assess. However, visible edges show some minor wear, and the surface appears to have some slight scuffing or dust. No significant creases or tears are immediately apparent.