Why Is Base Set Blastoise Projected to Keep Rising in Value Long Term?
Base Set Blastoise from the original 1999 Pokemon TCG set is one of the most iconic cards out there, and its value keeps climbing, especially for high-grade copies. Right now, an ungraded Blastoise #2 sells for around $65, while a PSA 10 can fetch over $3,700.[1] Prices have ticked up recently, with PSA 9s gaining $22 in the last check and solid sales volume of about one per day for lower grades.[1] But why do experts see this trend holding strong for years to come?
First off, its vintage status puts it in a league of its own. Base Set cards like Blastoise come from the very first English expansion by Wizards of the Coast, making them true originals with no reprints matching that raw nostalgia. Unlike modern versions, such as the Celebrations reprint at just $29 ungraded or Scarlet & Violet 151’s Blastoise ex SIR around $79, the Base Set holds premium appeal for serious collectors.[2][5] Vintage Base Set holos have shown 20 percent yearly gains, driven by their scarcity and history.[3]
Grading makes a huge difference too. A PSA 10 Blastoise is rare and multiplies value 3 to 4 times over raw copies, with low-pop high grades surging even more amid the grading boom.[3][1] The overall TCG market exploded to $2.2 billion in 2024 with 25 percent growth, and 2025 auctions at places like Heritage and PWCC are up 30 percent, pushing PSA 10 vintage cards like Blastoise prototypes to $360,000 in sales.[3] This fever keeps demand high for stars like Blastoise, the powerhouse final evolution of starter Squirtle.
Scarcity plays a big role long term. With only a handful of pristine Base Set Blastoise around, especially compared to flooded modern print runs, supply stays tight.[3] Population reports show low numbers for top grades, and as cards age, condition naturally worsens, shrinking the pool further.[1] Add in anniversary hype and investor interest in early promos and Base Set icons, and Blastoise benefits from steady collector chase.
Recent sales back this up. A moderately played Blastoise hit $107 on eBay just days ago, and even older sales from 2021 show consistent upward jumps from $68 to $117.[1] Modern Blastoise cards pale in comparison, with ultra rares like M Blastoise ex at $37 new, proving the original’s edge.[4] As the market matures, fewer people open old packs, so surviving gems like Blastoise become trophies.
Population trends and auction records point to more growth ahead. With vintage dominating investments and grading unlocking massive premiums, Base Set Blastoise looks set to reward patient holders.[3][1]
