If there's one Pokémon that exudes friendliness and classic charm, it's Squirtle. This water-type starter from the first generation has held a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide since 1996. Its cute turtle appearance combined with its evolution into the tough Blastoise makes it a beloved favorite. Today, we'll delve into the world of Squirtle and its evolution: Wartortle. We'll also take a look at the top 5 most iconic and valuable Wartortle cards that every collector absolutely needs to know about.

1. Wartortle 42/102 – Base Set (1st Edition & Shadowless)
The very first Wartortle card ever, and a must-have for any fan of the original series. The 1st Edition and Shadowless versions are rare and highly sought after.
- Raw value: €100 - €105
- PSA 10: €1,700 - €2,700
A timeless icon from the early days of Pokémon, with enormous nostalgic and collector's value.

2. Dark Wartortle 39 – Legendary Collection
This card brings out Wartortle's rebellious side. The Legendary Collection is known for its glittering firework holos.
- Raw value: €70 - 80
- PSA 10: €96 - €100
A real eye-catcher in any collection and loved by fans of the Team Rocket look.
3. Wartortle Chrome 8 – Topps Series 1
Not a TCG card, but incredibly popular among collectors because of its unique metallic finish. The Chrome series has a distinct fan base.
- Raw value: €49 - €60
- PSA 10: €100 - €145
This map is rare in good condition due to its fragile finish.

4. Wartortle 92/165 – Expedition
The Expedition series ushered in a new era of modern design. This Wartortle stands out for its vibrant artwork and nostalgic appeal.
- Raw value: €37 - €40
- PSA 10: €79 - €100
A popular card among fans of the e-Reader sets.
5. Wartortle (JP) 009/048 – Pokémon Web
This Japanese card is based on the original artwork, but printed on modern cards with a Web-series finish.
- Raw value: €35 - €50
- PSA 10: €107 - €200
Rare in Europe and very popular with lovers of Japanese exclusives.

Why invest in Wartortle cards?
Wartortle may often fall somewhere between Squirtle and Blastoise, but his cards are anything but average. His role in the original evolution line makes him beloved and timeless. The combination of nostalgia, rarity, and strong visual designs makes these cards excellent investments. PSA 10 copies, in particular, are becoming increasingly scarce. For any serious collector, a Wartortle card is a smart move for the future.