Extra Battle Day Lillie (2019) – The Rare Pokémon Promo Card's Origins and Value

 


In the expansive world of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) collectibles, certain cards stand out due to their rarity, unique acquisition methods, and escalating market value. One such card is the Extra Battle Day Lillie (2019) promo, a coveted item among collectors and enthusiasts.

Origins of the Extra Battle Day Lillie Card

The Extra Battle Day Lillie card was introduced during the Extra Battle Day events held in Japan in October and November 2019. These events were designed to promote competitive play and offered participants the chance to win exclusive promotional cards. To obtain the Lillie promo, players had to excel in tournament matches, with their performance evaluated based on the number of matches won and the difference between prize cards taken and those taken by opponents. The top performers then engaged in a game of rock-paper-scissors, with winners receiving a booster pack containing one of three full-art promo cards, including the sought-after Lillie illustrated by Naoki Saito. The combination of skill and luck required to obtain this card, along with its limited distribution, has significantly contributed to its rarity.

Design and Features

The Extra Battle Day Lillie card showcases:

  • Artwork: A full-art illustration by Naoki Saito, depicting Lillie in a dynamic and vibrant pose.

  • Card Details: Identified as card number 397/SM-P, exclusive to the Japanese promotional series.

  • Holofoil Finish: A shimmering background that enhances the card's visual appeal.

Rarity and Market Value

Due to its limited release and the unique conditions under which it was awarded, the Extra Battle Day Lillie card has become one of the most valuable modern Pokémon cards. In June 2023, a PSA 10 graded copy of this card sold for a record $108,000 at auction, a significant increase from the $26,000 paid for another PSA 10 copy in November 2022. This sharp rise in value reflects both the card's scarcity and the high demand among collectors.

Factors Influencing Value

Several factors have influenced the card's market value:

  • Scarcity: The card was only obtainable through specific tournament events in Japan, with a limited number of copies distributed.

  • Artwork and Character Popularity: Lillie is a beloved character in the Pokémon series, and Naoki Saito's illustration has been highly praised for its aesthetic appeal.

  • Collector Demand: The combination of rarity, character popularity, and unique acquisition method has made this card highly desirable among collectors.

Conclusion

The Extra Battle Day Lillie (2019) promo card stands as a testament to the intricate blend of competitive play, exclusive distribution, and artistic excellence within the Pokémon TCG community. Its rarity and escalating market value underscore its significance as a modern collectible, making it a prized possession for enthusiasts and a remarkable piece of Pokémon history.

Popular posts from this blog

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

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

First Edition Shadowless Holographic Charizard #4 (1999) – The Iconic Pokémon Card Worth Over $200,000