Elite Trainer Boxes (ETBs) were introduced from the Black & White series onwards and quickly grew into one of the best-loved products in the Pokémon TCG. They hold not only booster packs, but also sleeves, dice, markers and a stylish collector's box. For players they are handy; for collectors they are iconic sealed items. Early and limited ETBs in particular are very rare these days and can be worth astronomical amounts.

Here are the 5 most expensive Elite Trainer Boxes currently to be found on GetCollectr, with their background and price.

1. Plasma Storm Elite Trainer Box

Plasma Storm (2013) is known for its iconic cards such as Secret Rare Charizard and Blastoise. The Elite Trainer Box from this set is extremely rare and almost never found sealed any more. At a value of well over €8,000 this is one of the most expensive ETBs in the world.

2. Phantom Forces Elite Trainer Box

Phantom Forces (2014) introduced the popular Silver Dialga EX – a card that has become legendary among collectors. The ETB from this set is rare, with artwork that still appeals to fans. The price of more than €4,500 makes this one of the crown jewels of the XY era.

3. Primal Clash Elite Trainer Box [Groudon]

Released in the XY Primal Clash series, this box brought the battle between Groudon and Kyogre into view. The Groudon version is rarer and therefore considerably more expensive than its counterpart. At a price above €4,400 this is one of the most valuable ETBs ever.

4. Primal Clash Elite Trainer Box [Kyogre]

The Kyogre version of the Primal Clash ETB is every bit the equal of Groudon in style and content, but is slightly less rare. Even so, at €3,100 this box is still one of the showpieces on the sealed market, popular with fans of the Hoenn Legendaries.

5. Plasma Blast Elite Trainer Box

Plasma Blast (2013) was a smaller expansion in the Plasma trilogy, but the Elite Trainer Box is just as sought after as its big brother Plasma Storm. Because of the small print runs and its age, the value is now almost €2,700, and rising.

Why investing in Elite Trainer Boxes can be smart

Elite Trainer Boxes are not only practical for players, but above all one of the most reliable investments as a sealed product. Because of the small print runs in the early years and the enormous nostalgic value, old ETBs are scarce and popular. Plasma Storm and Phantom Forces in particular show that sealed ETBs now reach price peaks comparable to vintage booster packs. For collectors who want to focus on sealed items, ETBs are among the most interesting investments.