Title: Beckett Assigns Mint 9 to Illustrator Pikachu, Legendary 1998 Pokémon Card
Subtitle: Beckett Collectibles has graded another copy of the iconic Illustrator Pikachu card, solidifying its historical significance.
Meta Description: Discover how Beckett Collectibles has graded a Mint 9 Illustrator Pikachu card, a cornerstone of Pokémon card history, originally awarded in 1998.
Content:
What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has recently authenticated and graded another copy of the Illustrator Pikachu card, a pivotal piece in Pokémon trading card history. This particular card, handled by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), received a Mint 9 grade, placing it among the top-preserved specimens. This achievement continues Beckett’s legacy of certifying significant collectibles, including earlier Illustrator Pikachu cards.
Originally distributed to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, the Illustrator Pikachu differs from regular Pokémon TCG releases. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original artist of Pikachu.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Given in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or retail)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Estimated 101 copies exist, with 41 known or graded publicly
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original Atsuko Nishida artwork
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No typical inserts or parallels; it is a standalone promotional card
- Unique due to its contest-exclusive distribution and non-standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia elements related to the Illustrator Pikachu
- Its importance is linked to its origin, illustration, and contest background
Collector Notes
- Though not the rarest by numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is one of the most culturally and historically important Pokémon cards.
- About 101 copies are believed to exist, with 41 documented through grading or public sales.
- The card’s prestige is bolstered by its creator, contest origin, and status as a benchmark for high-end Pokémon collecting.
- The freshly graded BGS Mint 9 card achieved better subgrades than a previous Beckett-graded copy, including for centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated example aids in understanding the card’s survival and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett’s role ensures reliable authentication and documentation of this landmark release.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked to this card.
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