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    Magikarp - Pokémon Card 151 (Special Art Rare) [080/165]

    PSA Graded Japanese Pokémon Magikarp Special Art Rare card from the 151 set in perfect GEM MT 10 condition. - view 1
    1/3
    Rare (7/10)
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    QUICK FACTS

    25

    Categories

    Trading Cards,Memorabilia,Collectibles

    Era

    2020s

    Origin

    🇯🇵 Japan

    Brand

    Pokémon

    Artist/Maker

    Yu Nagaba

    Rarity

    Rare (7/10)

    Discovered

    Jan 18, 2026

    1 months ago

    DESCRIPTION

    This is a graded Japanese Pokémon Trading Card Game card featuring Magikarp, specifically the Special Art Rare (SAR) variant from the 2023 'Pokémon Card 151' (SV2a) set. The artwork, by the renowned illustrator Yu Nagaba, depicts Magikarp gracefully swimming against a dynamic, textured background, possibly a waterfall or misty aquatic environment. The card is encased in a professional PSA slab, indicating it has been authenticated and assessed for condition, achieving a perfect 'GEM MT 10' grade. The card's text, HP, and attacks are all in Japanese.

    CULTURAL ECHOES

    Where This Object Echoes

    Japanese MythologyAncient to present

    Magikarp's journey from a weak fish to the powerful Gyarados echoes the Japanese legend of the Karp leaping over the Dragon Gate to become a dragon, symbolizing perseverance and transformation.

    Ukiyo-e Woodblock PrintsEdo Period (1603-1868) to present

    The dynamic water effects and stylized depiction of aquatic life in this card's art can be seen as a modern homage to the vibrant and expressive nature of traditional Japanese Ukiyo-e prints, particularly those featuring natural scenes and powerful animals.

    Ritual & Ceremonial Use

    • •The ritual of 'pulling' highly sought-after cards from booster packs, followed by the practice of professional grading and encapsulation to preserve and certify high-value collectibles.

    Meaning Through Time

    1990s-early 2000s

    Pokémon cards were primarily seen as children's playthings or casual collectibles, focused on gameplay and basic character acquisition.

    Mid-2010s-present

    The market for high-grade, rare Pokémon cards shifted significantly, transforming them into serious investment assets and sophisticated art collectibles, attracting adult collectors and investors.

    HISTORICAL STORY

    The 'Pokémon Card 151' set (internationally known as 'Scarlet & Violet—151') was highly anticipated, focusing on the original 151 Pokémon from the Kanto region. Released in Japan in June 2023, this set capitalized on nostalgia while introducing new rarities like the Special Art Rares (SARs), which ...
    The 'Pokémon Card 151' set (internationally known as 'Scarlet & Violet—151') was highly anticipated, focusing on the original 151 Pokémon from the Kanto region. Released in Japan in June 2023, this set capitalized on nostalgia while introducing new rarities like the Special Art Rares (SARs), which feature unique, full-art illustrations by a variety of artists. This particular Magikarp SAR card has garnered significant attention for its distinctive artistic style, contributing to the set's overall collectibility and market impact.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    1

    Despite its often-portrayed weakness in the Pokémon games, Magikarp is beloved by fans and features in some of the most iconic and highly valued cards, often symbolizing perseverance and unexpected power.

    2

    Yu Nagaba, the artist for this Magikarp SAR, is known for his minimalist and line-art style, making this particular artwork a striking departure from his typical aesthetic and a unique piece within the Pokémon TCG.

    MATERIAL & CONDITION

    Surface

    The card's surface is smooth and glossy with a holographic 'foil' finish that accentuates the special art rare illustration, creating a shimmering effect under light. The PSA slab is clear, hard plastic, designed to protect the card's pristine surface and edges.

    Weight & Feel

    Due to the PSA encapsulation, the item feels rigid and substantial, heavier than a raw card, providing a sense of protection and durability.

    Condition

    The PSA grading label clearly states 'GEM MT 10', indicating a virtually flawless card. This suggests perfect centering, sharp corners, pristine edges, and a surface free of blemishes, scratches, or print defects, consistent with a top-tier grade.

    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 very high due to the clear images of a professionally graded card from a known set, complete with visible PSA certification details and a Gem Mint 10 grade, which aligns with the pristine visual condition.

    KEY EVIDENCE

    • 1PSA Graded GEM MT 10: Indicates flawless condition by a reputable grading service.
    • 2Japanese language card from the 'Pokémon Card 151' (SV2a) set, card number 080/165.
    • 3Special Art Rare (SAR) rarity, a highly desirable variant known for unique artwork.
    • 4Features Magikarp, a popular and iconic Pokémon, with artwork by noted artist Yu Nagaba.
    • 5Authenticity verification via PSA certification number 102296015 visible on the label.

    WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY

    • →Verify the PSA certification number (102296015) on the official PSA website to confirm grading details.
    • →Examine the card through the slab under various lighting conditions to observe any subtle print lines or surface imperfections not visible in general photography (though unlikely for a GEM MT 10).
    • →Carefully inspect the PSA slab for any signs of tampering or re-encapsulation, though genuine slabs are quite robust.

    ESTIMATED VALUE

    $250 - $450

    Updated: Feb 26, 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

    The Collector

    The Collector

    The Connoisseur•56 items

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