What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card of great historical importance in the Pokémon trading card world. This particular card received a Mint 9 grade from Beckett Grading Services (BGS), signifying it as one of the most pristine examples available. Beckett continues its legacy of certifying significant collectibles, having previously graded other copies of Illustrator Pikachu.
The Illustrator Pikachu was presented to victors of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from conventional Pokémon TCG issues. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original illustrator of Pikachu.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Bestowed in 1998 to winners of Pokémon Illustration Contests (not available in packs or retail outlets)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Estimated 101 copies in existence, with 41 publicly verified or graded
- Special Features: Verified origin, artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No traditional inserts or parallels; this card is a unique promotional issue
- Its exclusivity stems from contest-only distribution and non-standard issue
Autographs & Relics
- No signatures or memorabilia elements linked with the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card's importance is rooted in its background, artwork, and contest origin
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest in terms of sheer numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is deemed one of the most culturally and historically important Pokémon cards.
- Approximately 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 documented through grading or public auction.
- The card's prestige is elevated by its creator, contest background, and its status as a high-end Pokémon collecting milestone.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 example achieved superior subgrades compared to a prior Beckett-graded copy, including areas like centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded version aids in assessing the card’s preservation rate and condition benchmarks in the hobby.
- Beckett’s role offers reliable authentication and documentation for this legendary release.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked with this card.
Source: https://www.sportscardportal.com
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