Why Is Base Set Koffing Increasing in Long Term Value?
If you collect vintage Pokemon cards, you have probably noticed Base Set Koffing from 1999 climbing in price over time. This common card from the original set, featuring the poison gas Pokemon with its floating skull face, started as a cheap filler in binders. Today, high-grade copies like PSA 10 versions are fetching strong prices on sites like dolledbynya.com, where they ship protected in bubble wrap for serious buyers.[2] But what is driving this steady rise in long-term value?
First, scarcity plays a big role. Base Set came out over 25 years ago, and Koffing was printed in huge numbers as a basic common. Most copies sat in sleeves or got played with, leading to wear and tear. Finding a gem mint PSA 10, which means perfect corners, edges, and centering, is tough. As collectors chase these pristine survivors, demand pushes prices up. Sellers highlight the PSA 10 grade because it proves top condition, making it a safe bet for long-term holds.[2]
Second, nostalgia fuels the fire. Base Set is the holy grail of Pokemon TCG. Koffing reminds fans of the early days, when everyone chased Charizards but overlooked commons like this one. Now, with the hobby booming among adults who grew up with the game, every Base Set card gets a second look. Koffing is not a rare holo, but its simple artwork and poison type give it charm. Collectors build full Base Set rainbows or theme decks around overlooked Pokemon, and Koffing fits right in.
Third, the market shows clear upward trends. While modern shiny Koffing from sets like Shining Fates holds steady around $4.64 as a holo rare, the vintage Base Set version benefits from age.[1] Newer cards compete for attention, but Base Set commons like Koffing gain value as the supply of high grades dries up. Prices do not spike overnight like chase cards, but they creep higher year after year. A PSA 10 that might have sold for under $50 a few years back now draws bids well into triple digits, with room to grow as more collectors enter the vintage scene.
Finally, low print rarity in top condition seals the deal. Unlike holos with shadowless variants, Koffing’s value comes from survival rate. Most Base Set cards suffered from poor storage back then, so graded 10s are few. This makes it a smart pick for patient investors who want steady appreciation without the hype of big names.
Keep an eye on grading populations and recent sales. If you own a raw Koffing in great shape, consider slabbing it. The long-term climb looks solid for this unassuming gas ball.
