Title: Beckett Assigns Mint 9 Grade to Illustrator Pikachu, a Notable 1998 Pokémon Card
Subtitle: Beckett Grading Services Certifies Another Illustrator Pikachu, Reinforcing Its Historical Importance
Meta Description: Discover how Beckett Grading Services has authenticated and graded a Mint 9 Illustrator Pikachu, a key piece in the Pokémon trading card world.
Content:
What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card of great historical significance within the Pokémon community. This particular card was graded Mint 9 by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), making it one of the finest preserved copies known. This event continues Beckett’s history of certifying important collectibles, including previous examples of the Illustrator Pikachu.
The Illustrator Pikachu was originally given to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from typical Pokémon TCG releases. The card features artwork by Atsuko Nishida, the original artist behind Pikachu.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Awarded 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 publicly known or graded
- Special Features: Authenticated origin, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No traditional inserts or parallels; the card stands alone as a promotional item
- Unique status due to its exclusive contest distribution and non-standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia content linked to the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card’s importance is rooted in its origin, illustration, and contest background
Collector Notes
- The Illustrator Pikachu is not the rarest Pokémon card by sheer numbers, yet it is viewed as one of the most culturally and historically important.
- It is thought that around 101 copies exist, with 41 known through grading or public sale.
- The card’s value and prestige are heightened by its creator, contest origin, and its role as a high-end Pokémon collecting benchmark.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 copy received higher subgrades than a previously graded Beckett example, including areas like centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded card helps in understanding the card’s survival rate and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett’s role ensures reliable authentication and documentation for this iconic card.
- No design variations, serial numbering, or parallels are known for this card.
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