History
Kicklee, known as Hitmonlee in English, is one of the iconic Fighting-type Pokémon from the first generation. Recognizable by its powerful legs and martial agility, Hitmonlee is a prominent figure in the Kanto Pokédex, renowned for its devastating kick-based combat techniques.
This card is part of the Fossil expansion, the third major series of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, released in 1999 by Wizards of the Coast. The Fossil expansion continued to enrich the Kanto Pokédex, introducing new Pokémon not seen in the Base and Jungle sets, and solidifying the TCG universe with prehistoric creatures and other fan favorites like Hitmonlee.
The artwork for this card, created by Ken Sugimori, the lead designer of the Pokémon franchise, captures Hitmonlee in a dynamic and aggressive pose, ready to unleash a kick. This artistic style is emblematic of the classic era of the Pokémon TCG and contributes to the timeless appeal of this card for collectors and early fans alike.
Fun facts
- Kicklee, known as Hitmonlee in English, is one of the original 151 Pokémon, famously named in homage to martial arts legend Bruce Lee due to its powerful kicks.
- The Fossil expansion, to which this card belongs, was the third main set of the Pokémon TCG, expanding the Kanto Pokédex after the Base and Jungle sets.
- The distinctive artwork for this card was created by Ken Sugimori, the primary designer for the Pokémon franchise, whose style defined the aesthetic of early TCG cards.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the Kicklee 22/62 card from the Fossil expansion in 1st Edition is particularly sought after. The "1st Edition" stamp is crucial as it indicates a limited print run and significantly increases its value compared to the unlimited version. When acquiring, carefully check the overall condition of the card: the surface (scratches, indentations), edges (wear), corners (whitening), and centering of the artwork. A card in excellent condition, especially a 1st Edition, can see its value appreciate significantly, making it a prime investment for vintage Pokémon TCG enthusiasts.