Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Holo (1998) – The $360,000 Prototype Pokémon Card

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In the realm of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) collectibles, certain cards stand out not only for their rarity but also for their historical significance. One such card is the Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Holo (1998), a prototype that played a pivotal role in introducing Pokémon cards to the Western market.

Origins of the Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Card

In 1998, as Wizards of the Coast (WotC) sought to bring the Pokémon TCG to English-speaking audiences, they commissioned the Belgium-based company Cartamundi to produce prototype cards. These prototypes were intended to demonstrate the potential design and appeal of English-language Pokémon cards to Nintendo for approval. Among these prototypes, the Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Holo card is particularly noteworthy. This card features a holographic Blastoise on the front, with a blank back, distinguishing it from standard releases. It is believed that only two such cards were produced, making it an exceptionally rare piece.

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Design and Features

  • Front Artwork: The card showcases a holographic image of Blastoise, one of the original and most beloved Pokémon.

  • Back Design: Unlike standard Pokémon cards, this prototype has a blank back, as it was intended for presentation purposes and not for gameplay.

  • Unique Attributes: The card bears the identifier #009/165R and is labeled as a "Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Hologram," highlighting its prototype status.

Rarity and Market Value

Due to its limited production, the Blastoise Commissioned Presentation card is among the rarest Pokémon cards in existence. Its significance in the history of the Pokémon TCG and its scarcity have made it highly sought after by collectors. In January 2021, a CGC-graded 8.5 copy of this card was sold at auction for an impressive $360,000, underscoring its immense value in the collectors' market.

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Historical Significance

This card represents a crucial moment in the globalization of the Pokémon franchise. As a prototype used to pitch the English version of the Pokémon TCG, it symbolizes the collaborative efforts between WotC and Nintendo to bring Pokémon to a broader audience. Its existence offers insight into the developmental processes behind one of the world's most popular trading card games.

Conclusion

The Blastoise Commissioned Presentation Galaxy Star Holo (1998) card is more than just a collectible; it's a piece of Pokémon history. Its rarity, combined with its role in the expansion of the Pokémon TCG to Western markets, makes it a prized possession for serious collectors and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Pokémon phenomenon.

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