Market outlook
Stable Outlook 7/10
The card has durable collector demand because Pikachu remains evergreen and TAG TEAM promos are a favored Sun & Moon era niche, but the large existing graded supply limits explosive near-term upside.[1][2][3]
Next months. Likely to trade in a relatively narrow range unless broader Pokémon market sentiment shifts or a major graded-population squeeze appears.
Long term. Moderate appreciation is plausible over 1 to 3 years, especially for graded 10 and pristine copies, but gains are likely steadier than dramatic due to high available supply.
History
Pikachu is the franchise mascot of Pokémon, first introduced in the original video games and anime as the electric-type partner most closely associated with the brand. Zekrom is a Legendary Dragon/Electric Pokémon introduced in the Unova era, and the pair is presented here as a TAG TEAM GX card, a mechanic that paired two Pokémon into a single high-HP, high-impact card during the Sun & Moon era.[6]
This card was first released in 2019 as English Black Star Promo SM168 in the Sun & Moon Black Star Promos series, and it was distributed as part of the Pikachu & Zekrom GX Premium Collection/TAG Team Tins product line rather than a normal booster set release.[1][3][5]
- It is a Full Art Black Star Promo, which generally makes it more collectible than a standard promo version because of the alternate artwork treatment and higher visual appeal.[2][5]
- The card has 240 HP and the TAG TEAM rule, meaning an opponent takes 3 Prize cards if it is Knocked Out, reflecting the strong competitive design of TAG TEAM GX cards.[6]
- Market listings show substantial grade-sensitive demand, with graded 10 population data and premium pricing visible in the secondary market.[1][2]
Collector notes
Condition. Check for edge whitening, corner wear, surface scratches on the Full Art holo layer, print lines, centering, and any dents or pressure marks from the premium collection packaging. Promo cards pulled from tins/collections often show edge wear from insertion and handling, and Full Art foiling can hide fine scratches until tilted under light.
Storage. Store immediately in a penny sleeve and rigid top loader or semi-rigid holder, then keep in a dry, stable environment away from heat and direct light. Because this is a premium promo with glossy foil and collector value tied to grade, avoid repeated handling and consider grading if the card appears Gem Mint.
Authenticity. Verify the correct SM168 promo numbering, English black star promo branding, and the full-art texture/foil pattern. Fakes often have washed-out colors, poor texture simulation, incorrect font spacing, or incorrect holographic shine. Compare the card against known authentic scans, and be cautious with cards that appear overly glossy, too thick/thin, or have off-register text.
