Rare Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh! cards unveiled at London Card Show

Drawing more than 5,000 collectors and enthusiasts, the show was a treasure trove of rare and valuable trading cards, with three standout pieces capturing the attention of the global collecting community.

A Charizard for the Ages

One of the most talked-about cards at the event was the No Rarity Japanese Base Set Charizard. Often referred to as the "Holy Grail" of Pokémon cards, this particular Charizard is part of the original print run from 1996 in Japan.

Unlike later editions, it lacks the black star rarity symbol, marking it as an ultra-rare "No Rarity" card. The iconic card, featuring artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita, was sold for a staggering £16,500 at the show. Its pristine condition and historical significance make it a coveted piece, symbolising the early days of Pokémon and the dawn of the trading card phenomenon.

Pikachu in Gold

Another highlight from the show was the Pikachu 24kt Gold Card, a stunning blend of craftsmanship and fandom.

This unique collectible was created in 2018 as part of a collaboration between The Pokémon Company and the esteemed Japanese jeweller Tanaka Kikinzoku Jewelry. Weighing approximately 11 grams, the card faithfully reproduces the beloved Pikachu artwork in solid gold and is encased in a clear acrylic block for protection and display.

Initially sold for around £1,200, the card’s value has skyrocketed to approximately £45,000, underscoring its rarity and the high demand among collectors.

A Yu-Gi-Oh! Misprint Like No Other

The show also featured a rare Yu-Gi-Oh! misprint that quickly became a sensation within the community.

The card, originating from the Elemental Energy set, was mistakenly printed with artwork from a different set, The Lost Millennium. Such errors are incredibly rare, often making the cards one-of-a-kind.

The card, which was originally purchased in a £20 box, has already received offers as high as £7,000. Its unique status as a cross-set misprint adds to its allure, making it a highly prized item for Yu-Gi-Oh! enthusiasts.

A Growing Legacy

While these rare cards dominated headlines, the London Card Show had much more to offer. From live events and trading zones to workshops and Q&A sessions with industry celebrities, the show provided something for everyone.

Football legend David James and Lorcana illustrators Kasia Brzezinska and Emily Abeydeera were among the high-profile guests who interacted with fans and shared their expertise.

The London Card Show, founded in 2021, has rapidly grown into Europe’s largest and most prestigious trading card event.

Its August edition not only exceeded expectations in terms of attendance but also set a new standard for the caliber of collectibles that can be found there. As anticipation builds for the next event, the London Card Show continues to be a must-attend for collectors and fans alike.

Tickets for future events can be purchased at www.londoncardshow.co.uk.