Base Set 1: Cards, Prices and The Hype of Now

By Jessie Schreuders
4 min read

If you’ve been collecting Pokémon cards for a while, you’ll definitely be familiar with the Base Set 1. This set is where it all started. The very first cards, the first holos, and of course that iconic Charizard. Even after all these years, the Base Set 1 remains a holy grail for collectors. Why? Simple. Nostalgia, rarity, and sky-high value. Let’s take a look at what makes this set so special.

What is the Pokémon Base Set 1?

The Base Set 1 is where it all began. In January 1999, this set was first released in the US. But in Japan, the set had already been released in 1996. Those first cards were not just pieces of cardboard. They were the beginning of a phenomenon that would conquer the world.

The set consists of 102 cards . In it you will find iconic Pokémon such as Charizard, Blastoise and Venusaur . The artwork? Classic and simple. But that is exactly what makes them so popular.

What I personally find so strong about the Base Set is that each card has its own charm. No excessive glitter or complex designs. Just that pure, nostalgic look that immediately brings back memories of your first booster pack.

Why is the Base Set 1 Still So Popular?

As you know, the hype surrounding the Base Set 1 has only grown over the past few years. But why?

  1. Nostalgia: These are the cards that started it all. Everyone remembers that first Charizard pull or opening a Blastoise pack.
  2. Rarity: Few people kept their cards in perfect condition. And certainly not that first set. Cards in mint condition are therefore rare and valuable.
  3. Investments: The Base Set is the ultimate investment. Cards like Charizard PSA 10 have only increased in value over the years.

And honestly? I think the hype will continue for a while. Pokémon continues to grow and new collectors discover the charm of that first set.

What Cards Are in Base Set 1?

The Base Set 1 contains a mix of Basic Pokémon, Trainers and Energy cards. But the real gems are of course the holos.

🌟 Holo Rares:

  • Charizard: The king of the set. If you have this card in mint condition, you're in luck.
  • Blastoise: A strong card in the game and a visual gem.
  • Venusaur: Often overlooked, but still an icon.
  • Raichu: The evolution of Pikachu that many collectors want to have complete.
  • Alakazam: Powerful psychic Pokémon, beloved by players and collectors alike.
  • Nidoking: Maybe not as popular as Charizard, but still a beautiful card.

⚡ Non-Holo Rares:

  • Dragonair: Often underrated, but visually impressive.
  • Dugtrio: Simple, but a must-have for set completers.
  • Electabuzz: One of the few electric-type Pokémon in the set.

🔥 Uncommons & Commons:

  • Pikachu (Red Cheeks): This variant has become an icon in its own right.
  • Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle: The starters in their most classic form.
  • Machop, Machoke, Machamp: A complete evolution line in one set.

Base Set Card Prices – Raw vs. Graded

The value of the Base Set 1 depends a lot on the condition of the card. A raw card can easily fetch a few hundred euros. But if you have a PSA 10 version , the value can go through the roof.

💰 Raw Prices (Non-Graded):

  • Charizard Holo: €300 - €1,000, depending on condition.
  • Blastoise Holo: €150 - €500.
  • Venusaur Holo: €100 - €400.
  • Alakazam Holo: €70 - €300.
  • Raichu Holo: €50 - €200.
  • Pikachu (1st Edition Red Cheeks): €150 - €400.

🏆 Graded Prices (PSA 10):

  • Charizard Holo (PSA 10): €25,000 - €30,000. And yes, that's not a typo.
  • Blastoise Holo (PSA 10): €4,000 - €5,000.
  • Venusaur Holo (PSA 10): €3,000 - €4,000.
  • Raichu Holo (PSA 10): €1,500 - €2,000.
  • Pikachu Red Cheeks (PSA 10): €2,500 - €3,500.

Boosters and Art Set from Base Set 1

Another reason the Base Set remains so popular is the booster packs . Each pack contains 11 cards and the chance of a holo is 1 in 3 packs .

The set contains four different artworks:

  • Charizard: The most iconic artwork. Prices for an unopened Charizard pack can reach up to €2,500 .
  • Blastoise: Less expensive than Charizard, but still popular. Prices around €1,800 .
  • Venusaur: A bit more affordable, but still popular. Prices around €1,500 .
  • Raichu: Often the cheapest of the four, but still worth a hefty €1,200 .

A complete art set of four boosters can cost up to €6,000 - €8,000 . Those are prices that will make you scratch your head.

Is Base Set 1 a Good Investment?

Without a doubt. But you have to know what you are getting into.

  • Raw cards can still increase in value, but only if they are in near mint condition.
  • PSA 10 versions are the real grail. Especially the Charizard Holo is an absolute hit.
  • Unopened boosters are risky, but can be extremely valuable if you have the right pack.

If I may give you a piece of advice: don't just look at Charizard . Blastoise and Venusaur may have less hype, but offer more growth potential. Especially if you can find them in PSA 10 quality.

My conclusion?
The Base Set 1 is and will always be a legendary set. It’s where Pokémon began. And its value continues to climb. Whether you go for raw cards, PSA 10 versions, or unopened packs – there are always opportunities. But do your research, buy from reputable sellers, and be patient. This set is a marathon, not a sprint.