Blastoise

Market outlook

Stable Outlook 7/10

Consistent demand for Base Set icons with recent price uptick (+9.2% in 30 days), balanced by abundant supply; nostalgia drives floor.

Next months. Stable to slight rise next 3-6 months on holiday demand.

Long term. Stable long-term as blue-chip vintage asset with moderate appreciation.

History

Blastoise is the final evolution of Squirtle, a Water-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I. As the powerhouse of the starter trio (with Bulbasaur and Charmander), it is renowned for its massive water cannons mounted on its shell, capable of piercing steel plates, making it a symbol of strength and defense in the Pokémon universe.

First released in the Pokémon Base Set in January 1999 in the United States by Wizards of the Coast, as part of the inaugural English-language Pokémon TCG expansion.

• Blastoise #2/102 is the highest print run holo from Base Set but iconic as the evolved form of starter Squirtle.
• Shadowless variant lacks the drop shadow on the right border text, printed early in the Base Set run before quality adjustments.
• Part of the legendary Base Set starter trio holos, central to early Pokémon TCG meta with strong Water-type attacks.

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

Very High

First printed in

Base Set

Demand

High

Supply

High

• Shadowless variant from early print run before shadow addition, making it scarcer than standard Unlimited.
• High overall Base Set print volume dilutes Unlimited rarity.
• Condition rarity: high-grade survivors scarce due to play wear on 25+ year old card.

Collector notes

Condition. Inspect centering (especially top/bottom on holos), check for holo scratches/foil peeling, edge whitening, surface print lines/dot matrix from early printing, corner dings; Shadowless prone to border fading.

Storage. Use semi-rigid or top-loader holders with cardboard centering, store upright in cool/dry environment away from sunlight to prevent holo oxidation; avoid soft sleeves long-term.

Authenticity. Verify Wizards of the Coast copyright (not Pokémon Company), check font/spacing on Shadowless (no shadow under text), feel thick stock/paper texture; fakes often thin, glossy, incorrect holo pattern; use blacklight for era-specific printing glow.