Logan Paul’s Pikachu Illustrator card isn’t just a pricey Pokémon collectible—it’s a shiny symbol of how internet stars are turning childhood hobbies into big-money bets. Back in 2022, the YouTuber shelled out $5.3 million for this one-of-a-kind card, a PSA Grade 9 version that’s the rarest and highest-graded of its kind in the world[1]. That purchase snagged him a Guinness World Record for the most expensive Pokémon card ever sold at the time[1].
Paul has been flaunting it like jewelry, even wearing it on a $75,000 chain around his neck[1]. Now, he’s planning to auction it off in February 2026, betting its extreme scarcity—one exists globally—will drive up the price even more[1]. He calls it a smart nontraditional investment, especially for young folks tired of stock market ups and downs or saving for a house they might never afford[1].
What makes this card stand out in the Pokémon world? It’s a Pikachu Illustrator, originally given as a prize to winners of a 1998 illustration contest in Japan. Only 39 were ever made, and this one’s perfect condition sets it apart from the pack[1]. Paul stresses that not every collectible is a winner—he sticks to the absolute top-tier items with tiny supply, like luxury watches or rare art, because that’s what holds value over time[1].
For Pokémon card hunters on PokemonPricing.com, this is a reminder of how influencer hype can rocket prices. Paul’s story shows the card market isn’t just for kids anymore; it’s pulling in millionaires who see these as the new gold rush. Keep an eye on that 2026 auction—whatever it fetches could reset records again and shake up values for high-end Charizards and other chase cards too.
