The world of Pokémon cards is vast, and when it comes to holographic Blastoise cards from the early days—specifically, the 1st Edition to the 4th print runs—things get especially interesting for collectors. Let’s break down what we know, what we don’t, and why these cards are so sought after, all in plain, easy-to-understand language.
First, it’s important to clarify what we mean by “1st Edition to 4th Print.” In the Pokémon Trading Card Game, especially for the original Base Set, cards were released in waves called “prints.” The 1st Edition cards are the very first print run and are marked with a “1st Edition” symbol. After that, there were unlimited print runs, but collectors often refer to subtle differences in these later prints as “2nd,” “3rd,” and “4th” prints, based on changes in the card’s appearance, like the shadow around the artwork or the color saturation. However, officially, Pokémon Company only distinguishes between 1st Edition and unlimited prints—the further subdivisions are a collector’s convention, not an official designation.
Now, onto Blastoise. Blastoise is one of the original three final evolutions from the Kanto region, and its holographic card from the Base Set is one of the most iconic in the game. But how many holographic Blastoise cards actually exist from these early prints? The truth is, nobody knows the exact number. Pokémon has never released official print run numbers for any of its cards, especially not broken down by edition or print wave. This secrecy is part of what drives collector interest and speculation.
What we do know is that 1st Edition cards are the rarest. They were only available in the initial release of the Base Set in English-speaking countries, and once those sold out, only unlimited prints were made. The unlimited prints had much larger production runs, so there are many more unlimited holographic Blastoise cards than 1st Edition ones. As for the so-called 2nd, 3rd, and 4th prints, these are even less distinct in terms of rarity, and the differences are often only noticeable to expert collectors. The number of holographic Blastoise cards from these later “prints” is certainly in the tens of thousands, if not more, but again, no official numbers exist.
The rarity and value of these cards are influenced by several factors. First, condition matters a lot. A card that’s been kept in perfect condition—no scratches, no bends, sharp corners—can be worth many times more than the same card in poor condition. Professional grading companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) assign grades from 1 to 10, with 10 being “gem mint.” A PSA 10 1st Edition holographic Blastoise is one of the holy grails for Pokémon card collectors and can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Even unlimited prints in top condition can fetch high prices, though not as high as 1st Edition cards.
Promotional cards add another layer to the Blastoise story. For example, the Japanese CD Promo Blastoise Holo #9, released in 1999, is a separate card from the Base Set Blastoise and is also highly sought after by collectors[1]. Its print run is unknown, but it’s considered rare, especially in high grades. Promo cards like this are almost always produced in smaller numbers than regular set cards, which is why they command high prices[5].
Why are these cards so expensive? It’s a mix of nostalgia, rarity, and the thrill of the hunt. Many people who collected Pokémon cards as kids are now adults with disposable income, and they’re willing to pay top dollar to complete their collections or own a piece of their childhood. The internet and social media have also amplified interest, with celebrities and influencers showing off their collections and driving up demand[3]. When a card is both rare and in high demand, prices can skyrocket.
It’s also worth noting that the Pokémon card market can be volatile. Prices can rise and fall based on trends, new releases, and even external factors like the economy. But for now, early holographic Blastoise cards—especially 1st Edition and rare promos—remain some of the most desirable cards in the hobby.
If you’re thinking about collecting or investing in these cards, it’s important to do your research. Learn how to spot fakes, understand grading, and buy from reputable sellers. And remember, while collecting can be fun and even profitable, it’s also possible to lose money if the market shifts.
One last thing: if you ever see claims about the health benefits of collecting Pokémon cards, be skeptical. There is no authoritative medical evidence that collecting trading cards improves physical or mental health. While hobbies can reduce stress and provide enjoyment, any specific health claims should be backed by peer-reviewed studies from reputable sources like the National Institutes of Health or major medical journals. As of now, no such studies exist linking Pokémon card collecting to health benefits.
In the end, the exact number of holographic Blastoise cards from 1st Edition to 4th print will likely remain a mystery. What we do know is that these cards are a big part of Pokémon history, and their legacy—and value—will continue to grow as long as there are fans eager to catch ‘em all.
