History
The Nidoking 11/102 card from the Base Set, 1st Edition, is a true piece of Pokémon Trading Card Game history. Nidoking, the Drill Pokémon, is an iconic creature from the first generation, known for its raw power and imposing appearance. Its distinctive design, crafted by the renowned Ken Sugimori, perfectly captures its aura as a royal, ground-dwelling monster, a true titan of the Pokémon world.
The Base Set, released in 1999, was the very first Pokémon TCG expansion in the West, marking the beginning of an era that would captivate millions of fans. This 1st Edition, recognizable by its small black "1" symbol, represents the initial print runs of these historic cards, granting them unparalleled rarity and sentimental value. The holographic version of Nidoking further enhances its majesty, with a shimmering effect that highlights Sugimori's classic artwork.
Fun facts
- Nidoking is one of the few Pokémon whose pre-evolution (Nidorino) requires a Moon Stone to evolve, a unique mechanic in the video games.
- The "1st Edition" symbol on Base Set cards is a small black "1" within a circle, indicating these are the initial and rarest print runs of the expansion.
- Ken Sugimori, the artist for this Nidoking card, is the lead designer and art director for the entire Pokémon franchise, having created most of the original Pokémon.