History
Riolu, the Aura Pokémon, is one of the most beloved Pokémon from the fourth generation, known for its ability to perceive and manipulate aura. It is the pre-evolution of the powerful Lucario, which grants it a special place in the hearts of trainers. This specific card, numbered GG26/GG70, comes from the special Crown Zenith expansion, the final set in the Sword & Shield series of the Pokémon TCG.
The Crown Zenith expansion is renowned for its "Galarian Gallery," a sub-collection of cards featuring stunning illustrations, often created by celebrated artists and depicting Pokémon in dynamic or poetic scenes. The artwork for this Riolu, by Miki Tanaka, is a perfect example of this artistic quality. It portrays Riolu in a natural setting, often peaceful and bright, capturing the very essence of this energetic and curious Pokémon. These Galarian Gallery cards are particularly sought after by collectors for their unique aesthetics and added value.
Fun facts
- Riolu first appeared in the Pokémon Diamond and Pearl video games, introducing the aura mechanic to the Pokémon world.
- The Riolu GG26/GG70 card is part of the highly sought-after Galarian Gallery from Crown Zenith, a collection of alternate artworks that showcase the creativity of the illustrators.
- The illustrator of this card, Miki Tanaka, is known for her soft and detailed style, often characterized by everyday life scenes or natural landscapes for Pokémon.
Collector's tip
For collectors, the Riolu GG26/GG70 card from Crown Zenith is a valuable addition, especially due to its inclusion in the Galarian Gallery. When acquiring, it's crucial to check the overall condition of the card: the absence of scratches on the surface, and the integrity of the edges and corners. Although it is not holographic, its value is primarily dictated by the quality of its unique artwork. Galarian Gallery cards tend to maintain good value and can even appreciate over time due to their aesthetic appeal. Protect it with sleeves and toploaders to preserve its pristine condition.
