Market outlook
Rising Outlook 7/10
23.4% increase in raw NM value over 30 days ending Sept 2025, with graded 10 reaching $300 in April 2026 amid sustained interest in alt-art Fox Pokémon[1][3]
Next months. Continued upward pressure with stable $25+ raw and $250+ graded 10 next 3-6 months
Long term. Moderate appreciation to $400+ graded 10 in 1-3 years if set nostalgia builds, tempered by modern print volume
History
Ninetales is a Fire-type Pokémon from Generation I, evolving from Vulpix via Fire Stone. Known for its nine elegant tails and fox-like mystique, it embodies folklore-inspired grace and fiery power, with lore describing it as a vengeful spirit capable of cursing those who pull its fur, making it a fan-favorite for its beauty and thematic depth in Pokémon media.
First released in the Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames set in August 2023 in English.
- This Illustration Rare features stunning artwork by GIDORA emphasizing Ninetales' ethereal tails and flames.
- Card #199/197 is a secret rare extending beyond the main 197-card set.
- Depicts Stage 1 Pokémon with 120 HP, attacks Will-o-Wisp (20 damage) and Nine-Tailed Dance.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Secret Rare
- Print run
- Medium
- First printed in
- Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames
- Demand
- Medium
- Supply
- Medium
- Illustration Rare numbering beyond main set (199/197)
- Limited pull rates in Obsidian Flames booster packs
- Popular character and artist boosting collector chase
Collector notes
Condition. Inspect centering on the intricate tail artwork and full-art borders, which often show edge whitening or print lines; check for surface scratches on the glossy finish and corner wear from typical handling.
Storage. Use semi-rigid top-loaders with sleeves in a cool, dry environment away from sunlight to prevent fading of the vibrant fire effects; avoid stacking without dividers.
Authenticity. Verify holographic patterning matches official iridescence, check font alignment on 'Illustration Rare' stamp and set symbol; use blacklight for reactive elements and compare to official scans from TCGPlayer or PokeDATA for holo foil consistency.
Sources: sportscardinvestor.com, mintcollectables.com.au, pricecharting.com, tcgplayer.com, pokedata.io