Market outlook
Rising Outlook 7/10
The trend is rising due to the card's scarcity from the limited Pin Collection box, its iconic status as Gengar, and the growing collector interest in Black Star Promos and unique holographic finishes like Cosmos Holo. The limited supply and consistent demand from fans and investors drive prices upward [1][2][6].
Next months. Next 3-6 months prediction: Prices for ungraded and lower-grade copies will likely stabilize or rise slightly, with potential increases for high-grade copies (graded 10, graded 10) due to ongoing collector interest and market volatility [1][5].
Long term. 1-3 year prediction: The card is expected to continue appreciating, especially certified high-grade versions, as it becomes a more sought-after piece of the Sword & Shield era. The limited nature of the Pin Collection box supports long-term value growth [1][2][6].
History
Gengar is a Shadow Pokémon, the final evolution of Ghost-type Pokémon Ghastly, introduced in Pokémon Red and Blue (1996) for the Game Boy. It is inspired by Japanese folklore regarding cursed shadows and doppelgängers, known for stealing sunlight and possessing a mischievous, harmful nature. As a Pokémon, it is iconic in the franchise for its dark purple color, crescent-shaped grin, and status as a popular competitive and collectible character.
This specific promo card, Gengar #SWSH052, was first released as part of the Champion's Path Special Pin Collection (also known as the Stow-on-Side Special Pin Collection), which was officially released on October 2, 2020, in North America and Japan [3][9].
- The card is a 'Black Star Promo' (indicated by the black star symbol on the card), a rare subset of promotional cards not found in standard booster packs [2][8].
- It was included in a limited-edition collection box that contained only 5 Sword & Shield Booster Packs, 2 Pokémon pins, an online code card, and 2 Black Star Promo cards (Gengar and Machamp) [3].
- The card depicts Gengar in a 'Cosmos Holo' finish with a unique, shimmering background pattern distinct from standard holographic cards [9].
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Ultra Rare
- Print run
- Low
- First printed in
- Champion's Path Special Pin Collection (Sword & Shield Promo Cards)
- Demand
- High
- Supply
- Scarce
- Included only in a limited-edition Champion's Path Special Pin Collection box, which had a restricted production run [3].
- It is a Black Star Promo, a subset of promotional cards not distributed in standard booster packs or retail stores [2][8].
- The Cosmos Holo finish is a unique visual trait not found on other Gengar cards, increasing its collectibility [9].
Collector notes
Condition. Key things to check include centering (often slightly off-center in this promo print), edge wear on the black star border, corner dings, and any surface scratches on the Cosmos Holo finish. Common flaws include whitening on the edges and indentation marks from the packaging [1][5].
Storage. Best practices include storing the card in a rigid, non-PVC plastic sleeve (toploader) immediately after obtaining it, then placing it in a sealed magnetic case or a quality保管 box to prevent bending and moisture damage. Avoid stacking cards directly on top of each without sleeves [1].
Authenticity. To spot fakes, verify the 'Black Star' symbol on the card (a real black star, not a grey or printed one), check the holographic pattern (Cosmos Holo should have a distinct shimmer not present on cheap fakes), and examine the card stock thickness and texture. Authentic cards have a specific matte finish on the non-holo areas and a high-quality print. Reprints are rare but may lack the correct holographic depth or have incorrect font spacing [1][2].
