Logan Paul, the famous wrestler and YouTuber, recently shared how one single Pokemon card totally shifted his view on money and investing. He bought a super rare Pikachu Illustrator card back in 2021 for almost $5.3 million, which set a Guinness World Record as the most expensive Pokemon card ever sold in a private deal.[1][2] That purchase made him see Pokemon cards not just as fun collectibles, but as smart investments that can beat out traditional stocks.
Paul explained on Fox Business that he loves Pokemon so much he even has a Squirtle tattoo, his only one.[2] He pointed out how the Pokemon franchise is the top-grossing media brand worldwide and has grown over 3,000% in value in the last 20 years, way better than the stock market.[2][3] For him, dropping millions on this card was a bet on something he connects with personally, rather than boring stocks.[3]
To keep the card safe, Paul spent another $75,000 on a fancy diamond-encrusted lanyard for it, back when gold prices were low around $2,000 an ounce. Now with gold nearing $4,500, that choice looks even smarter.[1][4] He calls collectibles like this an “alternative asset class” that adults who grew up with Pokemon are pouring money into, especially with the franchise’s 30th anniversary coming in 2026.[1]
Now Paul is cashing in. He took a $2.5 million advance from auction expert Ken Goldin to sell the card, featured on the Netflix show King of Collectibles.[1] It hits Goldin Auctions on January 12, with estimates from $7 million to $12 million because the Pokemon market is hotter than ever.[1] Goldin even offered $7.5 million straight up before, but Paul held out for the auction buzz.[1]
Paul’s advice for regular collectors? Start simple. Hit up your local card shop or eBay, grab a card that looks cool or means something to you, just like he did.[2] His story shows how one card can change your money mindset, turning childhood passion into real wealth.
