History
Tangela, the Vine Pokémon, is a Grass-type Pokémon renowned for its body completely covered in intertwined blue vines, with only its large eyes visible. This card, numbered 66/102, is part of the iconic Pokémon Trading Card Game Base Set, the very first expansion ever released in the West.
The 1st Edition of the Base Set is particularly sought after by collectors, marking the official debut of the TCG franchise outside of Japan. The artwork for Tangela is by Mitsuhiro Arita, a legendary artist who helped define the visual aesthetic of the early Pokémon cards. His recognizable style gives Tangela a classic and timeless presence, capturing the Pokémon's mysterious essence with its dynamic vines.
As a Common card, Tangela was readily available upon the release of the Base Set, yet its 1st Edition version holds significant historical and sentimental value for enthusiasts and purists of the Pokémon TCG.
Fun facts
- Tangela is one of the original 15 Grass-type Pokémon featured in the Base Set.
- Artist Mitsuhiro Arita has illustrated over 600 different Pokémon cards throughout his career.
- The Base Set was first introduced in North America in 1999, launching the Pokémon TCG phenomenon.
Collector's tip
For collectors, a 1st Edition Base Set Tangela card represents a piece of Pokémon TCG history. As a Common card, its price is generally more accessible than rare holographics, but the "1st Edition" stamp on the card gives it a significant premium. Always check the card's condition, especially the edges and surface, as even for a common, "Mint" or "Near Mint" condition can significantly increase