4 min read


If you collect Pokémon cards, the Sun & Moon series is a name you can’t ignore. This series didn’t just bring new cards, it opened up a whole new era in the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Think exotic Alola forms, beautiful GX cards and legendary Tag Teams. In this blog I’ll take you to the tropical world of Sun & Moon, a series full of innovation, fun to collect and already iconic cards.


What is the Sun & Moon series?

The Sun & Moon series started in February 2017 and ran until the end of 2019. After the successful XY generation, the successors had to deliver something special, and they did. The very first GX cards were introduced, and the classic Pokémon got an Alola makeover with completely new types.

A set list with stories

1. Sun & Moon Base Set (February 2017)
The first step in Alola. With the introduction of GX cards and a fresh layout this set set the tone. Many collectors remember the hunt for Full Art Lillie a card that is now worth hundreds of euros.


2. Guardians Rising (May 2017)
This set brought Tapu Lele GX – a card that completely shook up the competitive scene. Everyone wanted him. The rainbow colors of the Guardians brought a unique flair to the TCG.


3. Burning Shadows (August 2017)
Known for one thing: Rainbow Rare Charizard GX. So sought after that it is now one of the most expensive modern cards. The set brought fiery excitement and legendary status.


4. Crimson Invasion (November 2017)
Although this set was less popular in the beginning, it is now more appreciated. The Ultra Beasts made their first appearance - strange, strong and intriguing.


5. Ultra Prism (February 2018)
A set that many collectors hold dear to their hearts. Prism Star cards, full art trainers like Cynthia, and the return of Sinnoh Pokémon made this a beloved release.


6. Forbidden Light (May 2018)
Light versus dark, with cards like Ultra Necrozma GX. The atmosphere of this set was intense, bringing together themes of mystery and power.


7. Celestial Storm (August 2018)
A set full of nostalgia: reprints of old favorites combined with new power. Rayquaza GX made its comeback, and how!


8. Dragon Majesty (September 2018)
A special mini set full of dragons – what more could you want? Charizard , Dragonite, Salamence… all in beautiful holofoils.


9. Lost Thunder (November 2018)
The biggest set up to that point. Zeraora GX stole the show, but Suicune and Lugia also got some great cards. The energy of Johto was there.


10. Team Up (February 2019)
The introduction of Tag Team GX cards. Pikachu & Zekrom, Eevee & Snorlax this was the set that made duo cards popular. A game changer.


11. Unbroken Bonds (May 2019)
Reshiram & Charizard GX dominated this release. Every booster felt like a chance for fireworks – literally and figuratively.


12. Unified Minds (August 2019)
The Tag Team trend continued with Mewtwo & Mew GX among others. Powerful combinations and futuristic artwork gave this set something special.


13. Hidden Fates (August 2019)
Not officially numbered within Sun & Moon, but a mega release nonetheless. Shiny Vault. Shiny Charizard. Shiny Eeveelutions . Everyone was looking for this set. And many still are.


14. Cosmic Eclipse (November 2019)
The grand finale of the series. Pokémon and trainers on one card, like Red & Pikachu. It was an emotional tribute to the TCG.

Why is this series so important?

As you know, Sun & Moon marked a transition in how the TCG looked and played. GX cards brought powerful effects, but when they hit, your opponent gave up two price points, making for risky strategies. The arrival of Tag Team GX brought even more drama: two Pokémon on one card with brutal attacks and impressive art.

This was also a highlight for collectors:

  • Artwork became more vibrant and daring
  • Trainers got their moment in the spotlight (think Lillie, Cynthia, Rosa)
  • Each set had at least one strong chase card

Additionally, this series had a strong connection to the Alola region from the games, which added extra recognition and thematic depth.

The most popular and expensive cards

Within Sun & Moon there are cards that are already true classics:

💰 Lillie (Full Art, Sun & Moon Base) – €200–€335 (PSA 10)
🔥 Charizard GX (Rainbow Rare, Burning Shadows) – €2,899 – €3,025 (PSA 10)
🌟 Cynthia (Full Art, Ultra Prism) – €700 – €800 (PSA 10)
⚡ Pikachu & Zekrom GX (Alternate Art, Team Up ) – €200 – €250 (PSA 10)
🌌 Arceus & Dialga & Palkia GX (Alternate Art, Cosmic Eclipse) – €950 – €1,066

These cards are beloved not only for their power, but also for their rarity, artwork, and sentimental value to fans of the series.


Is Sun & Moon a good investment?

Absolutely. The series is now fully closed, meaning that sealed products (such as booster packs , booster boxes, tins , and ETBs) are no longer being produced. That drives up prices – especially for sets like Burning Shadows , Team Up, and Cosmic Eclipse .

What I personally like about Sun & Moon is that it bridges the gap between old collecting tradition and modern TCG explosion. The sets are varied, playful and full of visual impact.

So whether you’re looking back with nostalgia, or just starting to collect, the Sun & Moon series is a sparkling choice. GX, Tag Team, Alola, it all comes together here in a series that changed the Pokémon TCG forever.