1st Edition (TCG)/Value

In terms of value, 1st Edition cards are typically worth more than their Unlimited counterparts. However, as mentioned above, some of the last English 1st Edition sets were released either at the same time or after their Unlimited release, making them much less valuable compared to early TCG Expansion runs. The most valuable 1st Edition cards are regarded to be those from Base Set, as they were released before the Pokémon phenomenon got into full motion in the West. By the time the TCG became fully established, much of the 1st Edition had already sold out. With the first starter decks produced containing a foiled 1st Edition Machamp they laid down the style in which 1st Edition cards would appear.

1st Edition runs from later Expansions also showed card inconsistencies from their intended appearance (see Error cards). Many error cards provide additional material for collectors, as they are usually corrected in subsequent Unlimited runs. Those that are not (usually text in attacks that do not match what was intended) are detailed in card errata issued by the gaming body.