Charizard No Rarity Symbol (1996) Signed by Mitsuhiro Arita – The Ultimate Pokémon Collector's Grail

-

 

Among the rarest and most historically significant Pokémon cards, the 1996 Japanese Base Set Charizard No Rarity Symbol holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. While many are familiar with the English 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard, fewer realize that the earliest printing of Charizard in the Pokémon TCG came from this No Rarity Symbol Japanese Base Set card.

With only 8 PSA 10 copies in existence, this card is exceedingly rare. When combined with the signature of Mitsuhiro Arita, the original illustrator of Charizard, its desirability and market value skyrocket, making it one of the most prized possessions in Pokémon TCG history.

What is the No Rarity Symbol Charizard?

The Japanese Base Set, released in 1996, was the first Pokémon TCG expansion ever printed. Unlike its English counterpart, it did not feature a "1st Edition" stamp to indicate early print runs. Instead, the earliest prints of these cards lacked a rarity symbol, which later became standard on Pokémon cards.

This subtle detail significantly impacts a card's desirability among collectors, as the No Rarity Symbol Charizard is the first-ever print of Charizard in Pokémon TCG history. While other pre-TCG cards like Topsun exist, they are not part of the official trading card game lineage that continues today.

Design & Features

  • Illustration by Mitsuhiro Arita – The iconic Base Set Charizard artwork that has become legendary in the Pokémon community.
  • No Rarity Symbol – Unlike later prints, this early version has no rarity indicator, making it distinct.
  • Holographic Finish – Features the same shimmering effect as the English Base Set version.
  • Japanese Text – As an exclusive Japanese release, all text remains in its original form.

Mitsuhiro Arita’s Signature – Does it Increase Value?

Mitsuhiro Arita, the artist behind this legendary Charizard artwork, has occasionally signed Pokémon cards at official events. Having his signature on a No Rarity Charizard significantly enhances its value due to the added provenance and uniqueness.

However, there is a crucial factor to consider:

  • Signature Location – In some cases, Arita's signature is placed on the card itself, while in others, it is signed on the grading case.
  • Authentication – If signed directly on the card and authenticated by PSA/DNA or CGC, its value increases dramatically. However, if the signature is on the case and not authenticated, it may detract slightly from the card’s eye appeal.

Despite this, having an authentic Arita signature on any form of No Rarity Charizard makes it one of the most exclusive Pokémon cards in existence.

Market Value & Rarity

  • PSA 10 Standard No Rarity Charizard: Only 8 copies exist, with past sales reaching six figures.
  • Signed Copy (on the case): Valued higher but dependent on authentication status.
  • Signed Copy (on the card, PSA/DNA verified): The ultimate collector’s item, worth significantly more.

In recent years, auction houses and private sales have seen signed No Rarity Charizards selling for over $200,000, cementing their status as one of the most valuable Pokémon TCG cards.

Conclusion

The Charizard No Rarity Symbol (1996) with Mitsuhiro Arita’s signature is one of the most historically significant Pokémon cards ever printed. As the first-ever Charizard TCG print, it represents the beginning of an era. With only a handful of PSA 10 copies in existence, and even fewer signed by Arita, this card is a holy grail for Pokémon collectors.

Whether displayed in a collection, auctioned at a record-breaking price, or held as a long-term investment, this iconic Charizard remains a symbol of Pokémon’s legacy in the trading card world.

Popular posts from this blog

Tamamushi University Magikarp (1998) – The Rarest Pokémon Card You’ve Never Heard Of

-
Image
  The world of Pokémon card collecting is filled with legendary rarities, but few cards hold as much mystique as the Tamamushi University Magikarp from 1998. Unlike promotional cards given away at Pokémon events or tournament prizes, this elusive card was awarded in a way that made it nearly impossible to obtain, even when it was first released. Today, it stands as one of the rarest Pokémon cards ever produced, with only a handful of known copies in existence. This exclusive card was part of a unique competition known as the Tamamushi University Hyper Test , an event held in Japan in 1998. Unlike traditional Pokémon tournaments, this was an academic-style competition designed to test participants’ knowledge of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Players had to pass a series of tests, proving their expertise in Pokémon strategy and mechanics. Those who scored high enough were invited to an in-person tournament, and the best competitors were awarded the coveted Tamamushi University Magik...
Read more

Pikachu Illustrator (1998) – The Holy Grail of Pokémon Cards

-
Image
  In the realm of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) collectibles, the Pikachu Illustrator card, released in 1998, stands as the most coveted and valuable card among enthusiasts. Its unique origin, limited distribution, and significant market value have solidified its status as the "Holy Grail" of Pokémon cards. Origins of the Pikachu Illustrator Card The Pikachu Illustrator card was awarded to winners of three illustration contests organized by the Japanese magazine CoroCoro Comic between 1997 and 1998. These contests invited fans to submit their own Pokémon artwork, with the top entries receiving this exclusive card as a prize. In total, 39 copies were officially distributed, making it one of the rarest Pokémon cards in existence. Bulbapedia Design and Features Artwork : The card features an illustration by Atsuko Nishida , the original designer of Pikachu. It depicts Pikachu holding a paintbrush and drawing other Pokémon, symbolizing creativity and artistic talent. Unique...
Read more

Trophy Pikachu No. 2 Trainer Silver (1998) – The Ultra-Rare Pokémon Card Fetching $444,000

-
Image
  In the realm of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) collectibles, certain cards stand out due to their rarity, historical significance, and the stories they tell. One such card is the Trophy Pikachu No. 2 Trainer Silver (1998) , awarded to second-place winners in early Japanese Pokémon tournaments. Origins of the Trophy Pikachu No. 2 Trainer Silver Card In the late 1990s, The Pokémon Company organized official tournaments to promote the burgeoning TCG. The 1997-1998 Japanese Lizardon (Charizard) Mega Battle tournaments, held from November 1997 through February 1998 across Japan, were among these early competitive events. Participants who secured second place in these tournaments were awarded the prestigious No. 2 Trainer Silver card , featuring Pikachu holding a silver trophy. This exclusive prize not only recognized their achievement but also granted them preferential entry to future events. It's believed that only 14 copies of this card exist, making it an exceptionally rare coll...
Read more