History
Pidgeotto, the evolved form of Pidgey, is an iconic Pokémon from the first generation, recognizable by its proud plumage and swiftness. It represents a powerful intermediate stage, often encountered by trainers looking to expand their team of Flying-type Pokémon.
Card Pidgeotto 22/102 is part of the illustrious Base Set, the very first expansion of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, launched in Europe in 1999. This particular edition is a 1st Edition, identifiable by the small '1st Edition' logo below the illustration, making it especially sought after by collectors for its age and rarity.
The artwork, signed by the legendary Ken Sugimori, co-creator of Pokémon, captures Pidgeotto in a dynamic and recognizable pose. True to his classic style, the illustration highlights the distinctive features of the Normal/Flying type Pokémon, contributing to the timeless aesthetic of the Base Set cards.
Fun facts
- Pidgeotto is the first Pokémon Ash evolves from Pidgey in the anime, marking a key moment in his journey as a trainer.
- Although this Pidgeotto card is not holographic, its '1st Edition' Base Set version is highly sought after due to its rarity and status as a first print.
- Ken Sugimori's illustration for this card is one of many he created for the Base Set, helping to establish the original visual aesthetic that defined the Pokémon TCG.
Collector's tip
For this Pidgeotto 22/102 Base Set 1st Edition card, the condition is paramount. Carefully check the edges, surface, and corners for any signs of wear. A "1st Edition" card in excellent condition, especially non-holographic, is an excellent addition to any collection and can represent a valuable investment. The presence of the small "1st Edition" logo is key to distinguishing this version from the unlimited version, which generally holds a lower value and is less coveted by astute collectors.
