Pokémon cards have always been a favorite among collectors and fans, but in the past year, some cards have seen their value skyrocket in ways that surprised even the most experienced traders. The reasons behind these increases are a mix of rarity, demand, and sometimes, unexpected events that brought more attention to certain cards. When it comes to the cards that increased the most in value last year, there are a few standouts that have made headlines in the collecting world.
One of the biggest stories in the Pokémon card market last year was the rise of the Shining Charizard from the Neo Destiny set. This card, which features a shiny version of Charizard, has always been popular, but its value jumped dramatically in the last year. In 2024, ungraded copies of this card were selling for around $4,000, but by late 2025, prices had climbed to over $6,000 on the secondary market. The reason for this increase is simple: more collectors are looking for rare Charizard cards, and the Shining Charizard is one of the hardest to find. The card’s unique design and limited print run make it a must-have for serious collectors, and as demand grows, so does its price.
Another card that saw a massive increase in value was the Umbreon Star from the POP Series 5 set. This card is so rare that it’s difficult to find accurate market data, but recent sales on platforms like eBay show that ungraded copies are now selling for around $4,000. The Umbreon Star is often confused with the Gold Star Umbreon from the Celebrations set, but the POP Series 5 version is much rarer and more valuable. The card’s scarcity is due to the fact that it was only given out as a prize in special events, and very few copies exist in the wild. As more collectors become aware of its rarity, the price continues to climb.
The Gold Star Pikachu from the Celebrations set also saw a significant increase in value last year. Pikachu is the most recognizable Pokémon in the world, and this card is one of the most sought-after versions of the character. The Gold Star Pikachu is known for its striking design and limited availability, and in the past year, its value has risen sharply. Ungraded copies are now selling for over $3,000, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. The card’s popularity is driven by both its rarity and the fact that Pikachu remains a fan favorite.
Other Gold Star Pokémon cards, like the Vaporeon and Mew from the Dragon Frontiers set, also saw their values increase last year. These cards are part of a series that is becoming increasingly popular among collectors, and as more people look to complete their Gold Star collections, the demand for these cards has gone up. The Mew Star from Dragon Frontiers, in particular, has become a hot commodity, with ungraded copies selling for over $2,000. The card’s unique design and limited print run make it a prized possession for any collector.
The Scarlet & Violet TCG series also produced several cards that saw their value increase last year. The Charizard ex Special Illustration Rare from the Paldean Fates expansion is one of the most notable. This card has a market price that has fluctuated between $175 and $375, but as of late 2025, it is averaging around $300. The card’s value is driven by its stunning artwork and the fact that it is one of the rarest pulls from the set. The Pikachu ex Special Illustration Rare from the Surging Sparks set also saw a significant increase in value, with prices reaching over $350. The card’s Terastallized form and vibrant design have made it a favorite among collectors.
The Sylveon ex Special Illustration Rare from the Prismatic Evolutions set is another card that saw its value skyrocket last year. This card is currently listed at an incredible market price of over $1,100, making it the most valuable card in the Scarlet & Violet series. The card’s unique design and limited availability have made it a must-have for collectors, and as demand continues to grow, so does its price.
In addition to these high-profile cards, there are also several bulk cards from the Scarlet & Violet and Mega Evolution series that have seen their value increase. Cards like Gengar, Arven, Night Stretcher, Hilda, and Pidgeotto have all become more valuable in the past year. These cards are not as rare as the ones mentioned above, but their increased value is due to their popularity in competitive play and the fact that they are harder to find in good condition. For example, the normal printing of Arven from the Obsidian Flames set is now selling for over $3, and the reverse holo printing of Night Stretcher from the Shrouded Fable set is selling for over $3.30. These prices may seem small compared to the high-end cards, but for bulk cards, they represent a significant increase.
The rise in value of these cards is not just about rarity and demand. Sometimes, unexpected events can also play a role. For example, when a new Pokémon movie or TV show is released, it can bring renewed attention to certain cards. This happened last year when a new Pokémon movie featuring Charizard was released, and the value of Charizard cards, including the Shining Charizard, increased sharply. Similarly, when a new set is released, it can create a surge in demand for older cards that are no longer in print.
It’s also important to note that the value of Pokémon cards can be affected by factors outside the collecting world. For example, changes in the economy, such as inflation or changes in consumer spending, can impact the market. In the past year, there has been a general increase in the value of collectibles, including Pokémon cards, as more people look for alternative investments. This trend has been supported by data from authoritative sources like TCGPlayer and eBay, which track market prices and sales trends.
When it comes to the health and safety of collectors, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with buying and selling Pokémon cards. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), handling collectible items can sometimes pose a risk of exposure to allergens or contaminants, especially if the items are not stored properly. The CDC recommends that collectors wash their hands after handling collectibles and store them in a clean, dry environment to reduce the risk of contamination. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises that collectors should be cautious when buying items from unknown sources, as there is a risk of exposure to counterfeit or unsafe products. The WHO recommends that collectors only buy from reputable sellers and check for signs of authenticity before making a purchase.
The rise in value of Pokémon cards last year has been a fascinating development in the collecting world. From rare Charizard cards to bulk cards from the Scarlet & Violet series, the market has seen a wide range of increases. These changes are driven by a combination of rarity, demand, and external factors, and they show no signs of slowing down. As more people become interested in Pokémon cards, the value of these collectibles is likely to continue to rise, making them an exciting and rewarding hobby for
