# Why Is Base Set Chansey First Edition Skyrocketing in Price?
The Base Set First Edition Shadowless Holo Chansey has become one of the most surprising success stories in the Pokemon card market. What was once an overlooked card from 1999 is now commanding prices that rival some of the most iconic Pokemon cards ever printed.
Recent auction results tell the story of this dramatic price surge. In October 2020, a PSA 10 graded copy sold for $36,877. Just a few years later in July 2024, that record was shattered when another PSA 10 example fetched $55,000 at auction[2]. This represents a significant jump in value in a relatively short timeframe, making Chansey one of the most expensive Base Set cards available in top condition[2].
The reasons behind Chansey’s rise are multifaceted. One theory suggests that early Pokemon players may have been prejudiced against the pink, nurturing Chansey Pokemon and took less care of the card compared to favorites like Charizard or Venusaur[2]. This means fewer high-grade copies exist in the market today. When supply is limited and demand increases, prices naturally follow.
Chansey’s popularity has also grown significantly among collectors over the years. The card depicts a unique and popular Pokemon that has maintained relevance throughout the franchise’s history[2]. As the Pokemon card market has matured and collectors have become more sophisticated, they have begun to appreciate cards beyond just the obvious chase cards like Charizard.
The grading market has played a crucial role in Chansey’s price appreciation as well. Current pricing shows dramatic differences based on condition. An ungraded copy sits around $12.76, while a Grade 9 reaches $123.00[1]. The real value explosion happens at the highest grades, where a PSA 10 commands $3,193.47[1]. This demonstrates how condition dramatically impacts value for this particular card.
For collectors tracking this card’s market performance, the trajectory suggests that Base Set First Edition Shadowless Holo Chansey will likely remain a significant investment piece. The combination of scarcity in high grades, growing collector interest, and its status as one of the most expensive Base Set cards makes it a card worth monitoring closely in the coming years.
