History
Lapras, the Transport Pokémon, is an iconic creature from the first generation, known for its peaceful nature and ability to navigate the seas, often carrying people on its back. This card, number 25/62 from the Fossil expansion, perfectly captures the essence of this sea giant.
The Fossil expansion, released in 1999, is the third main series of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. It introduced Pokémon revived from fossils, adding a prehistoric dimension to the TCG universe. Lapras, while not a fossil Pokémon itself, naturally fits into this aquatic and ancient theme, representing the majestic creatures of the deep.
The artwork for this card is by Ken Sugimori, one of the primary designers and illustrators of the Pokémon franchise. His distinctive style, characterized by clean lines and vibrant colors, gives this Lapras a classic and timeless appearance. The artwork depicts Lapras swimming peacefully in the water, its gentle and serene gaze reflecting its benevolent personality, a design that has charmed collectors and players since the early days of the TCG.
Fun facts
- Lapras is Pokémon #131 in the National Pokédex, renowned for being one of the original Water/Ice type Pokémon.
- The Fossil expansion was the third English Pokémon TCG set ever released, following the Base Set and Jungle.
- Ken Sugimori, the artist of this card, is the primary designer for many original Pokémon designs and illustrated a vast number of early TCG cards.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the Lapras 25/62 card from the Fossil expansion in 1st Edition represents a piece of Pokémon TCG history. The card's condition is paramount to its value: look for cards free of creases, scratches, or whitening on the edges. 1st Edition printings are typically much more sought after and valuable than their unlimited counterparts. Consider professional certification services like PSA, BGS, or CGC to authenticate the condition and provenance, which can significantly influence its market value. A well-preserved card from this era is a true treasure.
