The English Pokémon Base Set, originally released in 1999, had multiple print runs, but the exact number of distinct print runs is generally recognized as three main types: the **First Edition**, the **Shadowless**, and the **Unlimited** print runs. These print runs differ in rarity, card features, and collector value.
1. **First Edition Print Run**
This was the very first print run of the English Base Set cards. Cards from this run are marked with a “First Edition” stamp on the left side of the card, just below the Pokémon illustration. This print run is the rarest and most valuable because it was the initial release and had a limited quantity. The First Edition cards also have a slightly different color palette and card stock compared to later runs. Only cards from this print run have the First Edition stamp, making them highly sought after by collectors[1].
2. **Shadowless Print Run**
After the First Edition run sold out, Wizards of the Coast produced a second print run known as the Shadowless set. These cards do not have the First Edition stamp but are distinguishable by the absence of a shadow on the right side of the Pokémon image box. The Shadowless cards have a slightly different card design and are considered rarer than the Unlimited run but more common than the First Edition. Shadowless cards are often valued highly, especially holographic cards like Charizard and Chansey, due to their relative scarcity and unique appearance[2].
3. **Unlimited Print Run**
The Unlimited print run followed the Shadowless run and is the most common version of the Base Set cards. These cards have a shadow on the right side of the Pokémon image box and no First Edition stamp. Because they were printed in the largest quantities, Unlimited cards are generally the least valuable among the three print runs but still hold nostalgic and collector value.
In terms of **exact numbers**, Wizards of the Coast has never officially released detailed print run quantities for each of these sets. However, estimates based on collector data and market availability suggest:
– The **First Edition** print run was relatively small, possibly in the low millions or less, given the scarcity and high value of these cards today.
– The **Shadowless** print run was larger than the First Edition but still limited compared to Unlimited.
– The **Unlimited** print run was the largest, produced to meet the high demand after the initial releases.
The rarity and value differences between these print runs are reflected in auction prices. For example, a First Edition Shadowless Holo Charizard card in Gem Mint condition has sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars, while Unlimited versions are worth significantly less[4]. Similarly, rare cards like the First Edition Shadowless Holo Chansey have fetched prices upwards of $55,000 due to their scarcity and condition challenges[2].
There are also some unique and rare promotional or error cards related to the Base Set era, such as the Prerelease Raichu card, which is considered a print-run error and extremely rare, with a single PSA-graded copy selling for $550,000 in 2025[3]. These are not part of the standard print runs but add to the lore and collectible intrigue of the Base Set era.
In summary, the English Base Set had three primary print runs: First Edition, Shadowless, and Unlimited. Each print run has distinct physical characteristics and rarity levels, with First Edition being the rarest and most valuable, followed by Shadowless, and then Unlimited as the most common. Exact print quantities remain unofficial but are inferred from market data and collector experience.
