Base Set Electrode from the original Pokemon set is showing steady price gains, with ungraded copies around $4, PSA 9 at $35.97 up recently, PSA 9.5 at $39.91 also climbing, and PSA 10 holding at $200.[1] Collectors expect this rare card, number 21 out of 102, to keep rising because it ties into the huge demand for early Base Set cards that defined the hobby.
First off, supply is tight. Base Set came out in 1999, and high-grade versions like PSA 10 are rare due to age and play wear. Recent sales show low volume, with just a couple ungraded sales per month and one PSA 9 sale monthly, keeping prices firm.[1] As more collectors chase mint condition cards from the first expansion, Electrode benefits from not having endless copies floating around.
What sets it apart is its status as a 1st edition non-holo error card. Every 1st edition nonholo Electrode accidentally uses the artwork meant for the regular Base Set Electrode, making it a standout misprint.[5] Error cards like this draw serious hunters who pay premiums for unique flaws. Uncorrected errors from early prints add chase value, similar to other Base Set quirks that collectors obsess over.[5]
The broader market helps too. Base Set rares overall trend up as nostalgia hits peak with adults who grew up trading these. Electrode fits right in, evoking memories of its evolve-from-Voltorb line and electric attacks. Sites track steady bumps, like PSA 9 up $0.05 and PSA 9.5 up $0.04 in the latest data.[1] Compare to later sets like Secret Wonders Electrode, which sells for under $1 with no hype.[2]
Grading boom plays a role. More people slab their old cards now, but pristine Electrode stays scarce. Past sales hit $15 for a PSA 5 in 2023, while recent ungraded go for $3.77 to $6.[1] As grades pop, expect flips to push values higher.
Pokemon TCG prices favor originals over reprints like Base Set 2, where Electrode lists from $0.99 but markets at $6.21 still below true Base Set.[4] True vintage wins long-term. With low sales volume and error appeal, Electrode looks primed for more gains as the hobby grows.
