Top 10 Base Set Cards Every Collector Needs

The Set That Started It All

Released in January 1999 in the United States, the Pokemon Base Set is where it all began for millions of collectors. With 102 cards in the set, it introduced the world to holographic Pokemon cards and launched a collecting phenomenon that endures to this day. Here are the 10 cards from Base Set that define the hobby.

1. Charizard (4/102)

The undisputed king of Pokemon cards. The Base Set Charizard holographic is the most recognizable and sought-after card in the entire hobby. A PSA 10 first edition copy has sold for over $400,000, but even unlimited versions in moderate condition command serious prices. The combination of Charizard's popularity, the iconic Ken Sugimori artwork, and extreme scarcity in high grades makes this the holy grail.

2. Blastoise (2/102)

The second member of the original starter trio, Blastoise is a staple of any Base Set collection. Its Rain Dance ability made it a competitive powerhouse in the original card game, and the holographic version remains highly collectible. Clean copies in PSA 9 or 10 have seen steady price appreciation.

3. Venusaur (15/102)

Completing the starter trio, Venusaur rounds out the must-have holographic cards. While it typically commands lower prices than Charizard and Blastoise, Venusaur has seen significant growth as collectors pursue complete starter sets. The Energy Trans ability was also competitively relevant.

4. Alakazam (1/102)

Alakazam holds the distinction of being card number one in the set. The Damage Swap ability made it a fan favorite in the card game, and the holographic art is distinctive. Alakazam is often undervalued compared to the starters, making it an attractive pickup for collectors.

5. Chansey (3/102)

With 120 HP, Chansey was the tankiest Pokemon in the original Base Set. The holographic version features charming artwork and is a key piece of any serious collection. Chansey is a beloved Pokemon that resonates with collectors who remember using it as a wall in early deck builds.

6. Mewtwo (10/102)

The legendary psychic Pokemon from the first movie has enduring appeal. Mewtwo's Base Set holographic captures the menacing energy of the character. As one of the most powerful and popular Pokemon across all generations, Mewtwo cards consistently perform well in the market.

7. Gyarados (6/102)

The dramatic artwork showing Gyarados emerging from the water makes this one of the most visually striking cards in Base Set. Gyarados was also a powerhouse in competitive play. This is a card that looks incredible in a graded slab.

8. Ninetales (12/102)

Ninetales is an elegant card that has grown in collector appreciation over the years. The Fire-type holographic is beautiful in person, and the relatively lower population of high-grade copies compared to the starters makes it a smart collector pick.

9. Zapdos (16/102)

The legendary electric bird rounds out the heavy hitters. Zapdos features dramatic lightning-bolt artwork and was a legitimate competitive card. Of the three legendary birds in Base Set, Zapdos is the most valuable.

10. Machamp (8/102)

Every Base Set Machamp was first edition since it was only available in the starter deck. This makes it unique among the holographic cards. While the artificial first edition stamp affects its premium, Machamp remains a must-have for set completionists and a fascinating piece of Pokemon card history.

Building Your Base Set Collection

Completing a Base Set collection is a rewarding long-term project. Start with the non-holographic commons and uncommons, which are still affordable. Use Pokex to scan and track your progress toward completing the set, and watch market prices to find the right time to pick up the holographic cards you are missing.