Bulbasaur

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 6/10

Raw Near Mint copies have appreciated 22.1% over 30 days (as of mid-April 2026), indicating strengthening demand. graded 10 copies maintain stable premium pricing at $80, suggesting collector confidence.

Next months. Expect continued gradual appreciation over next 3-6 months. Raw Near Mint copies may reach $20-22 range as demand sustains. Graded copies (graded 9-10) likely to maintain $70-90 range.

Long term. Over 1-3 years, this card may appreciate modestly as the 2023 release ages and perceived scarcity increases among collectors. Japanese exclusive status provides long-term value support. However, lack of extreme rarity may limit exponential growth. Estimated range: Raw NM $22-30, graded 10 $85-110.

History

Bulbasaur is the grass/poison-type starter Pokémon from Generation I, first introduced in Pokémon Red and Blue (1996). It represents the plant-based evolution line and is one of the three original starter Pokémon alongside Charmander and Squirtle. Bulbasaur holds significant cultural importance as an iconic first-generation Pokémon.

This specific card was first printed in September 2023 as part of the Japanese Pokémon Scarlet & Violet 151 set (SV2a), which was released on September 22, 2023.

• This is an Illustration Rare (Art Rare/AR) variant, a special rarity tier featuring alternative artwork
• Card number 166/165 indicates it is a secret rare, printed beyond the standard set number
• The Japanese version of Scarlet & Violet 151 preceded English releases and featured exclusive art rare cards
• Bulbasaur is a Basic Pokémon with 70 HP and Grass type

Rarity and print run

Tier

Secret Rare

Print run

Medium

First printed in

2023 Pokémon Japanese Scarlet & Violet 151 (SV2a)

Demand

High

Supply

Medium

• Card number 166/165 places it beyond standard set numbering, indicating secret rare status
• Art Rare designation limits availability compared to standard rares
• Japanese exclusive release with approximately 3 years of market history (as of April 2026)
• Iconic Pokémon subject matter maintains collector demand

Collector notes

Condition. When evaluating this card, examine for: edge wear on the borders (most common flaw), corner creasing or damage, surface scratches on the holofoil pattern, centering issues, and print lines. Near Mint condition should show minimal imperfections visible only under close inspection.

Storage. Store in a protective sleeve or top-loader to prevent moisture and dust damage. Keep in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the illustration. For long-term storage, use acid-free sleeves and binders. Maintain temperature stability to prevent card warping.

Authenticity. Verify authenticity by checking: print quality and registration accuracy, holofoil pattern consistency with official releases, card stock thickness and feel, color saturation of the illustration, and comparison with verified examples. Japanese cards from this era have distinct printing characteristics; compare against graded/graded certified examples.