Why Is Base Set Dratini Becoming More Expensive Over Time?
If you collect Pokemon cards from the original Base Set, you might have noticed Dratini prices climbing steadily. This common card from the 1999 Wizards of the Coast Base Set, card number 42, started as a cheap basic Pokemon but now pulls in solid money, especially in good condition.[3] Right now, ungraded copies list around $1 to $5 on major sites, but market prices hover near $56 for nicer ones, showing demand is pushing values up.[3]
One big reason is its age and rarity in top shape. Base Set came out over 25 years ago, and commons like Dratini were printed in huge numbers. But time wears cards down. Fires, bends, and poor storage mean fewer survive in mint condition. Graded versions, like PSA 10s, are scarce because early collectors did not always handle them carefully. As the supply of pristine Dratini shrinks, prices rise for those that make the grade.[1]
Dratini ties into the popular Dragonite line, which draws fans. Dragonite from Base Set is a hot rare, and its evolutions start with this little guy. Collectors building full sets or theme decks chase Dratini to complete the chain. Shadowless versions, the early prints without shadows on the card art, add extra appeal and cost even more. Nostalgia plays a part too. Base Set reminds people of the Pokemon boom in the late 90s, and as adults with cash revisit their childhood, they bid higher on eBay and marketplaces.[2]
Market trends back this up. Price tracking sites show steady gains for Base Set commons over years. Similar to Dragonair, another evo in the line, recent sales hit $8.75 ungraded and up to $225 for PSA 10s, with increases noted month to month.[2] Bulk lots still include Dratini cheap, but singles for serious buyers keep climbing as new collectors enter and veterans upgrade.[5]
New players discovering the game through modern sets also fuel demand. They want originals, and Dratini fits as an affordable entry to vintage. Watch auctions closely, since sales data drives these prices, and low-volume high-grades spike fast.[1][2] If you own one, check its condition, it could be worth holding.
