Market outlook
Stable Outlook 6/10
After significant volatility from 2023 peak ($652 raw) to current levels ($1,500-$1,750 raw), the market has stabilized with recent sales showing modest gains. The card maintains strong collector interest without aggressive appreciation.
Next months. Expect stability with potential modest appreciation (2-5%) over the next 3-6 months. Raw cards may experience slight premiums as grading costs remain high, making ungraded copies relatively attractive.
Long term. Over 1-3 years, expect gradual appreciation as the card ages and supply diminishes through wear and loss. However, growth will likely be below historical peaks due to market maturation. Value may be influenced by potential Pokémon TCG reprints or new Umbreon variants that could impact collector sentiment.
History
Umbreon is a Dark-type Pokémon that evolves from Eevee when leveled up at night. It first appeared in Generation II (Gold/Silver), representing the concept of evolution through specific conditions. Umbreon symbolizes mystery and stealth within the Pokémon franchise.
2021 in the Sword & Shield: Evolving Skies set (SWSH07). This alternate art secret rare variant (#215/203) was released as part of the expanded secret rare pool for this set.
- Umbreon VMAX represents one of the most sought-after cards from the Evolving Skies set
- The alternate art variant features full-art illustration treatment making it visually distinctive
- This card peaked in value around April 2023 at approximately $652 for raw copies before experiencing market corrections
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Secret Rare
- Print run
- Medium
- First printed in
- Sword & Shield: Evolving Skies (SWSH07)
- Demand
- Very High
- Supply
- Low
- Secret rare designation places it above typical rare cards in rarity hierarchy
- Alternate art variant is more scarce than standard versions
- Limited pull rates from booster boxes during Evolving Skies era
- High collector demand from Pokémon TCG players and investors
Collector notes
Condition. Evaluate for corner wear, edge wear on the secret rare borders, surface scratches on the holo pattern, and centering issues. The alternate art full-art nature makes visible print lines and alignment defects more apparent. Check for holo texture consistency across the entire card.
Storage. Store in acid-free sleeve with archival-quality top loader. Maintain stable temperature (65-72°F) and humidity (45-55%). Avoid direct sunlight and use a binder-safe storage box. For high-value copies, consider UV-protective cases and climate-controlled storage.
Authenticity. Examine the card stock thickness and weight. Verify the holo pattern quality and rainbow effect characteristic of authentic Evolving Skies printing. Check for proper centering of the secret rare number. Counterfeits typically show inferior print quality, incorrect holo patterns, and poorly executed text. The 215/203 numbering is specific to this secret rare variant and should be precisely printed.
Sources: sportscardinvestor.com, stockx.com, pricecharting.com, youtube.com, tcgplayer.com
