If you’ve been tracking Pokémon card prices lately, you might have noticed something odd with the Devolution Spray from the original Base Set. This uncommon trainer card, number 72 out of 108, lets you devolve an opponent’s evolved Pokémon back to its previous stage. Prices for it have spiked recently, jumping into the spotlight on sites like TCGPlayer.[1][3]
What makes this card special? In the early days of Pokémon TCG, Devolution Spray was a niche tool for battling. It countered heavy evolution strategies by forcing foes to lose progress on their Pokémon. Not a game-changer like Charizard or Venusaur, but solid for decks built around disruption. Printed in the iconic Base Set from 1999, it came in unlimited, 1st edition, and shadowless versions, each with its own collector appeal.[3]
So why the price rise now? Market data from mid-December 2025 shows it topping the list of biggest weekly spikes. Listings on TCGPlayer hit over 900, with raw copies climbing fast—some near-mint ones pushing past $20 or more, up from single digits just weeks ago.[1] Part of this ties to Base Set hype. As the first English set, anything from it draws nostalgia buyers, especially with Pokémon’s 30th anniversary buzz still echoing. Vintage cards like this are getting scarcer in good condition due to age and play wear.
Error variants add fuel to the fire. Some Devolution Spray prints have greenish tinting where yellow should be, similar to mix-ups on Switch or Charizard cards from the era. These printing flubs from Wizards of the Coast runs are rare finds, boosting value for error hunters.[4] Spot one with that swampy hue instead of crisp yellow, and it could fetch a premium over standard copies.
Player demand plays a role too. While not meta in modern play, Base Set cards pop up in casual tournaments or online formats. Recent Pokémon TCG Live updates tweaked devolution effects on similar cards like Devolution Spray Z from later sets, reminding folks of the original’s roots.[2] Collectors see it as an affordable entry to Base Set trainers, cheaper than staples like Imposter Professor Oak or Item Finder nearby in the set list.[3]
Supply tightness helps too. Base Set print runs were massive early on, but high-grade survivors dwindle yearly. Online marketplaces show steady sales, pulling prices up as flippers and long-term holders cash in on the momentum.[1] Keep an eye on grading services—PSA 9s or 10s could accelerate the climb if more get slabbed.
For buyers, grab low-grade or ungraded copies soon if the trend holds. Sellers, time listings during peak hype. This spray might not devolve your wallet yet, but it’s evolving into a smart pickup.
