Title: Beckett Assigns Mint 9 Grade to Illustrator Pikachu, Legendary 1998 Pokémon Card
Subtitle: Beckett Grading Services Continues to Authenticate Historic Pokémon Collectibles
Meta Description: Discover how Beckett Grading Services has authenticated and assigned a Mint 9 grade to another copy of the iconic 1998 Illustrator Pikachu Pokémon card, a key piece in the trading card world.
Content:
What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, recognized as one of the most important cards in the Pokémon trading card scene. This piece was evaluated by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), earning a Mint 9 grade, highlighting it as one of the best-preserved versions available. This continues Beckett’s tradition of certifying significant collectibles, including past Illustrator Pikachu cards.
The Illustrator Pikachu card was originally given to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from typical Pokémon TCG issues. The art was created by Atsuko Nishida, the artist who first designed Pikachu.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Awarded in 1998 to winners of a Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or retail)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Around 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 publicly verified or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original illustration by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No standard inserts or parallels; this card stands as a unique promotional release
- Its distinctiveness comes from its contest-exclusive distribution and unconventional release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia elements linked to the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card’s importance is rooted in its origin, artwork, and contest history
Collector Notes
- The Illustrator Pikachu may not be the rarest Pokémon card by numbers, but it is seen as one of the most culturally and historically important.
- Approximately 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 known through grading or public transactions.
- The card’s prestige and value are bolstered by its creator, contest background, and standing as a high-end Pokémon collecting milestone.
- The recent BGS Mint 9 version scored higher in subgrades compared to a previously graded Beckett copy, including aspects like centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded piece adds to the understanding of the card’s survival and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett’s certification offers reliable authentication and documentation for this renowned release.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked to this card.
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