Blastoise EX

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 8/10

The card's obscurity and unique holo pattern are driving increased collector interest. High-grade copies are becoming more valuable as demand grows and supply remains scarce[1].[2].

Next months. Next 3-6 months: Prices for high-grade copies (graded 9–10) are expected to rise 5–10% due to increased demand at auctions and shows.

Long term. 1-3 year prediction: Continued upward trend, with graded 10 and graded 10 Black copies potentially doubling in value if collector interest remains strong.

History

Blastoise is a legendary Water-type Pokémon, the final evolution of Squirtle, known for its powerful cannon-like shell and leadership traits. It is one of the original Kanto Pokémon and has been a staple in Pokémon TCG since the game's inception[1].

The Blastoise EX XY122 was first released in September 2016 as a Black Star Promo in a special XY series tin featuring Blastoise and Venusaur, included as an alternate print of the Blastoise EX from the XY Base Set (card #29/146)[1].

• This card is not a traditional Black Star Promo but a direct reprint of Blastoise EX #29/146 with a unique webbed holo foil pattern, distinct from the standard XY EX holo[1].
• It is one of the only XY-era EX cards to use the webbed holo foil pattern, which was typically used for Holo Rares and GX cards in the Sun & Moon era[1].
• There are three known variants of this card, distinguishable only by their holo foil patterns: the webbed foil, the mirror foil, and the Sheen foil (diagonal shine) from the 2018 Mega Blastoise battle arena deck[1].

Rarity and print run

Tier

Ultra Rare

Print run

Low

First printed in

XY Black Star Promos

Demand

High

Supply

Scarce

• Unique webbed holo foil pattern not found on other XY EX cards[1].
• Limited print run as a Black Star Promo in a special tin[1].
• Only three known variants, making each extremely rare[1].

Collector notes

Condition. Check for centering, edge wear, and surface scratches. The webbed holo foil can be prone to micro-scratches that affect reflectivity. Avoid bending, as the card stock is thin and may crease. Common flaws include off-center printing and minor foil wear on the webbed pattern[2].

Storage. Store in a rigid top loader with a soft sleeve. Use a card album with UV protection. Keep in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent holo foil degradation. For long-term storage, use archival-quality sleeves and avoid humidity[2].

Authenticity. Fakes often lack the correct webbed holo pattern or have incorrect color saturation. Reprints may have the standard XY EX holo instead of the webbed variant. Verify the card number (XY122) and check for the unique diagonal Sheen foil if it's the Mega Blastoise variant. Authentic cards have precise printing and consistent holographic quality. graded 10 graded copies are rare and trustworthy indicators of authenticity[2].[5].