History
The Pokémon card Blastoise Holographic number 2/102 from the Base Set is an iconic piece that marked the history of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Blastoise, the final evolution of Squirtle, is one of the three Kanto region starter Pokémon, and its presence as a Rare Holo card in the very first Western expansion cemented its status as an icon.
The artwork for this card was created by Ken Sugimori, the original designer of many Pokémon. His distinctive style highlights Blastoise's power and imposing presence, with its famous water cannons emerging from its shell, ready to unleash a devastating attack. The holographic background adds a shimmering dimension that was revolutionary at the time and continues to captivate collectors.
The Base Set, released in 1999, introduced the Pokémon TCG phenomenon to the West, and holographic cards like Blastoise were the crown jewels of any collection. Owning this card not only meant having a powerful Pokémon for battles but also a piece of the game's history, representing the apex evolution of one of the most beloved Pokémon.
Fun facts
- Blastoise 2/102 is one of the three fully evolved Kanto starter Pokémon (alongside Charizard and Venusaur) to have a Rare Holographic card in the Base Set.
- Ken Sugimori's artwork for this card is directly inspired by Blastoise's original design, perfectly capturing its aquatic essence and robustness.
- As a Base Set card, Holographic Blastoise was one of the first Pokémon cards to be certified by grading services, reflecting its value and popularity among collectors from the very beginning of the TCG.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the Blastoise Holographic 2/102 Base Set card represents a historical investment. It is crucial to check the overall condition of the card: the integrity of the holographic surface, the absence of creases or deep scratches, and the condition of the edges and corners. First Edition cards are generally more sought after and hold higher value than Unlimited editions, though both are highly prized. The value of these vintage cards is strongly linked to their certification grade, so consider having your copy graded to confirm its authenticity and condition, which can significantly influence its market value.
