Logan Paul has turned his massive Pikachu Illustrator Pokemon card into a bold symbol of wealth, wearing it like a trophy necklace during WWE matches and now auctioning it off for millions. For collectors on PokemonPricing.com, this story shows how top-tier cards can skyrocket in value and become status symbols that beat traditional investments.[1][4]
Paul bought the card back in 2022 for $5.3 million, calling it the rarest Pokemon card in the world and the Holy Grail of collecting. It is a PSA-graded 10 Pikachu Illustrator, the only one in existence with that perfect score out of about 39 known copies worldwide. Designed by Atsuko Nishida, Pikachu’s original artist, it won a 1998 illustration contest in Japan and features unique artwork with a special pen symbol.[1][2][4][6]
He made headlines by wearing it around his neck on a $75,000 chain at events like WrestleMania 38, turning a simple trading card into a flashy sign of success. This move boosted its fame, drawing eyes from collectors and investors alike, and helped push Pokemon cards into the spotlight as hot alternative assets.[3][4]
Now, Paul is putting it up for auction through Goldin, moved up to January 5, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET due to huge global buzz. He expects it to fetch $7 million to $12 million, netting him $2 million to $7 million in profit. The sale ties into Netflix’s King of Collectibles season three and supports a good cause, with 100% of proceeds including buyer premium going to the Antupo Family Foundation.[2][5][6]
Paul pushes young people to dive into nontraditional investments like these cards, saying they have outperformed the stock market over the past 20 years with a 3,261% rise in value. He warns to stick to the best of the best, like ultra-rare items with tiny supply, since not every collectible holds up.[1][3]
The auction packs over 300 lots, including Paul’s own 1999 Base Set 1st Edition Holo Charizard from his collection, a sealed 1st Edition Booster Box that could hold Charizard pulls, and signed artwork by Pokemon legend Ken Sugimori. Other gems feature tournament trophy Pikachus and pristine World Championships sets.[2][6]
For Pokemon card hunters tracking prices, Paul’s card proves celebrity hype and top grades can drive insane gains, making icons like Pikachu Illustrator and Charizard the ultimate wealth flex in the hobby.[4]
