Title: Beckett Assigns Mint 9 to 1998 Illustrator Pikachu, Iconic Pokémon Card
Subtitle: A Milestone Achievement for the Historic 1998 Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu Card
Meta Description: Beckett Grading Services awards a Mint 9 grade to the renowned 1998 Illustrator Pikachu card, solidifying its status as a premier collectible in the Pokémon community.
Content:
What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the famed Illustrator Pikachu card, a cornerstone piece in the Pokémon trading card world. This card, evaluated by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), received a Mint 9 rating, establishing it as one of the finest specimens available. Beckett continues its legacy of certifying significant collectibles, including other editions of the Illustrator Pikachu.
The Illustrator Pikachu was a prize for winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from typical Pokémon TCG releases. Atsuko Nishida, the original creator of Pikachu, illustrated this card.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Presented in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or retail)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Around 101 copies believed to exist, with 41 documented through grading or public knowledge
- Special Features: Verified provenance, artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No standard inserts or parallels; the card is a unique promotional item
- Its unique distribution through a contest and non-standard release sets it apart
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia are linked to the Illustrator Pikachu
- Its importance lies in its origin, illustration, and contest background
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest in terms of numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is one of the most culturally and historically important Pokémon cards.
- Approximately 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 verified through grading or public sales.
- Its worth and prestige are tied to its creator, contest roots, and standing as a high-end collectible in the Pokémon arena.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 example surpassed a previously graded Beckett version in subgrades like centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each graded and authenticated card aids in comprehending the card’s endurance and condition benchmarks within the hobby.
- Beckett’s role ensures reliable authentication and documentation for this legendary card.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are connected to this card.
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