History
Porygon, the Virtual Pokémon, is a unique creature in the Pokémon universe, being the very first Pokémon entirely created by humans, developed by the renowned Silph Co. Its distinctive polygonal design reflects its artificial nature and programmed origin, setting it apart from naturally born Pokémon. This card, number 39/102, is part of the iconic Base Set, the very first expansion of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
The Base Set, launched in 1999 in English-speaking regions, laid the foundation for the Pokémon TCG, introducing the initial game mechanics and Pokémon from the Kanto region. Porygon 39/102 is a non-holographic card from this foundational series, making it a key item for anyone looking to retrace the game's origins.
The artwork for this card is by Tomoaki Imakuni, an artist recognized for his distinctive style and early contributions to the Pokémon TCG. His drawing of Porygon is both simple and evocative, capturing the digital and geometric essence of the Pokémon. Imakuni's presence on such a fundamental card underscores his importance in the early days of the Pokémon TCG phenomenon.
Fun facts
- Porygon is the first Pokémon created entirely by humans, developed by Silph Co. in the Kanto region.
- The Porygon 39/102 card is one of the original 102 cards from the Base Set, the very first Pokémon TCG expansion.
- Artist Tomoaki Imakuni is also known for his musical and voice contributions to the Pokémon anime, adding a unique touch to his card work.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the Porygon 39/102 1st Edition card from the Base Set represents a historical and potentially valuable piece. It is crucial to carefully check the overall condition of the card (corners, surface, edges) to assess its value. The presence of the distinctive "1st Edition" symbol below the illustration is essential to confirm that it is indeed a first print card, generally more sought after than unlimited versions. Consider purchasing graded cards to ensure their authenticity and preservation grade, which can significantly influence their market value.