History
Ekans, the Poison-type Snake Pokémon, is an iconic creature from the first generation, recognizable by its piercing gaze and stealthy nature. This card, number 46/62 from the Fossil expansion, features Ekans in its 1st Edition, a detail highly sought after by collectors.
The Fossil expansion, released in 1999, was the third set in the Pokémon Trading Card Game and introduced many ancient or prehistoric-looking Pokémon, although Ekans is a contemporary Pokémon. It left a lasting impression with its unique illustrations and the arrival of legendary Pokémon such as Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres. The Ekans 46/62 card, despite being a Common rarity, is a fundamental piece to complete the set.
Kagemaru Himeno's artwork for this card perfectly captures Ekans' essence. The Pokémon is depicted in a simple environment, likely a clearing or grassy area, with a clean background that highlights its menacing posture and the texture of its scaly skin. Himeno's distinctive style gives Ekans a presence that is both realistic and true to its original design.
Fun facts
- Ekans' English name, 'Ekans', is 'snake' spelled backward, while its Japanese name 'Aabo' is 'cobra' spelled backward (in Japanese 'ko-bu-ra' becomes 'a-a-bo').
- The Fossil expansion was the first to introduce 'Mysterious Fossil' cards, which allowed players to bring Fossil Pokémon like Kabuto and Omanyte into play.
- Kagemaru Himeno, the illustrator of this Ekans card, is also the artist behind many iconic Pokémon TCG cards, including basic Pokémon and Trainers, known for their distinct and clean style.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the condition of the Ekans 46/62 1st Edition card is paramount. Carefully check the corners, edges, surface, and centering of the image. A clear and undamaged '1st Edition' stamp significantly adds to the card's value and appeal. First Edition cards in pristine condition are rarer and thus more sought after than their Unlimited Edition counterparts. For a secure acquisition, consider cards already certified by recognized grading services, or examine them thoroughly to ensure their authenticity and quality, which can influence their future market value.
