Oshawott

Market outlook

Stable Outlook 4/10

Raw copies have shown slight appreciation (+17.7% over 30 days to 7/20/2025) but remain low-value. Graded copies command premium but lack sustained collector demand typical of chase cards. Modern promo saturation limits upside.

Next months. Expect stable to slightly declining prices as newer promos release. Raw cards remain sub-$2.00. Graded copies may consolidate around $15-$20 range.

Long term. Limited appreciation potential. This card will likely remain a bulk promo with collector value primarily as part of themed collections. No indicators suggest future scarcity or demand surge. Better suited as filler than investment.

History

Oshawott is a Water-type Basic Pokémon and the first evolution in the Snivy-Tepig-Oshawott starter trio from Generation V (Black/White). The character represents the otter archetype in the Pokémon franchise.

This specific SWSH222 promo was first released as a Holofoil Black Star Promo available in the Collector Bundle starting March 25, 2022, with the Spring 2022 Collector Chest variant released May 6, 2022. In Japan, it was released earlier as a Non Holofoil S-P Promotional card distributed through elementary schools in late January 2022.

• Artwork by kurumitsu on the English version
• Initial print-runs featured Mirror Holofoil, but Collector Chests transitioned to Cosmos Holofoil variants by February 2023
• Card was reprinted in the Astral Radiance expansion with different artwork by Saya Tsuruta
• Part of the 'Have Fun. Spring, Pokémon Card.' campaign that began March 25, 2022

Rarity and print run

Tier

Promo (Ultra Rare Holo variant)

Print run

High

First printed in

Sword & Shield Black Star Promos (SWSH222)

Demand

Medium

Supply

Abundant

• Black Star Promo designation provides some collectibility
• Wide distribution through Collector Bundles and Spring 2022 Collector Chests
• Holofoil variant transition (Mirror to Cosmos) creates minor variant distinction
• Modern release (2022) with no extreme supply constraints

Collector notes

Condition. Grade the card based on centering, corners, edges, and surface quality. Look for holofoil scratches and wear patterns. Distinguish between Mirror Holofoil (earlier prints) and Cosmos Holofoil (later variants from February 2023 onward) variants as these may have different value trajectories. Check for print defects common to 2022 production runs.

Storage. Store in a top-loader or sleeve with acid-free backing to prevent deterioration. Keep in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and humidity. For valuable graded copies, use archival-quality storage boxes. Avoid excessive handling to preserve holofoil integrity.

Authenticity. Verify holofoil pattern type (Mirror vs. Cosmos) matches the stated release date. Authentic copies should have crisp printing and proper card stock weight. Check illustration credit to kurumitsu on English versions. Be aware of reprints in Astral Radiance expansion which feature different artwork—ensure card number SWSH222 matches intended variant.