History
Entei, the Volcano Pokémon, is one of the three Legendary Beasts from the second generation, first appearing in the Pokémon Gold and Silver games. Said to have been created by Ho-Oh from the souls of Pokémon that perished in the burning of the Brass Tower, Entei is renowned for its blazing speed and its ability to unleash flames so intense they can cause volcanic eruptions. It roams the world, symbolizing the raw power of fire, leaving ash and smoke in its wake.
The Entei 17/64 card belongs to the Neo Revelation expansion, released in the early 2000s. This iconic set continued to explore the Johto region, introducing new Generation II Pokémon and innovative gameplay mechanics. Neo Revelation is particularly cherished by collectors for its mysterious atmosphere and the introduction of various Unown forms, as well as the highly sought-after Shining Pokémon, which marked a significant shift in Pokémon card aesthetics.
The artwork for this card, crafted by Naoyo Kimura, perfectly captures Entei's essence. It depicts the Legendary Pokémon in a dynamic and powerful pose, exuding an aura of heat and energy. Kimura's style is recognizable by its clean lines and its ability to bring Pokémon to life with a palpable sense of movement, making this non-holographic Entei a valued piece for its artwork and its significance within the Neo Revelation expansion.
Fun facts
- Entei is one of the three Legendary Beasts (alongside Raikou and Suicune) said to have been revived by Ho-Oh after the burning of the Brass Tower in Johto.
- The Neo Revelation expansion is famous for introducing Unown Pokémon in 26 different forms, corresponding to each letter of the alphabet, as well as the first highly sought-after 'Shining' Pokémon to the TCG.
- The artist Naoyo Kimura, who illustrated this Entei card, is also responsible for the artwork of many other iconic Pokémon TCG cards, often characterized by dynamic poses and great expressiveness of the Pokémon.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the Entei 17/64 from the Neo Revelation expansion in 'Edition 2' is a non-holographic rare card that deserves special attention. Condition is paramount, as even non-holo cards can significantly increase in value if they are in perfect condition (Near Mint or Gem Mint). Unlike '1st Edition' cards which are often more sought after, 'Edition 2' cards offer an excellent opportunity to acquire a historical piece without the sometimes prohibitive cost of the first print run. Carefully check the edges, surface, and corners for any signs of wear, and protect it in a sleeve and toploader to preserve its quality long-term.
