Why Is Base Set Super Energy Removal Rising in Price Each Year?
If you collect Pokemon cards from the original Base Set, you have probably noticed Super Energy Removal getting more expensive over time. This rare trainer card, number 79/102, lets players discard all energy from an opponent’s active Pokemon and attached ones. Back in the early days of the game, it was a key tool to shut down big attacks. Today, its market price on sites like TCGplayer sits around $196 for Shadowless versions, up from much lower numbers just a few years ago.[1] Prices for regular Base Set copies also climb steadily as demand grows.
One big reason for the rise is rarity. Base Set came out in 1999, and Super Energy Removal was printed in limited numbers as a rare. Shadowless prints, without the shadow around the card art, are even scarcer because they were only in the first runs. As time passes, many cards get lost, damaged, or thrown away by people who did not know their value. Fewer clean copies mean higher prices for what is left.[1]
Nostalgia plays a huge part too. The Base Set is the first Pokemon TCG expansion, full of iconic cards that started it all. Fans who grew up with it now have money to spend as adults. They chase complete sets or favorite trainers like Super Energy Removal to relive old tournament memories. Every year, more collectors enter the hobby, pushing up bids on early cards.
The card’s power in competitive play adds to its appeal. In the original meta, decks relied on energy-heavy Pokemon like Blastoise or Chansey. Super Energy Removal could flip a game by stripping their power in one turn. Modern players study old formats and reprint strategies in custom games or simulators, keeping interest alive. Even though newer sets have better cards, this one holds a special spot in Pokemon history.
Market trends show the steady climb. Listings start as low as $1.53 for lower grades, but near-mint or graded copies fetch way more.[1] As supply shrinks and collector demand stays strong, expect the price to keep going up each year. Sites tracking Base Set lists confirm it as a standout rare worth watching.[4] If you own one, hold it tight or get it graded to boost its value.
