Title: Beckett Assigns Mint 9 to 1998 Illustrator Pikachu, a Legendary Pokémon Card
Subtitle: Beckett Grading Services Evaluates Another Key Piece of Pokémon History
Meta Description: Discover how Beckett Grading Services has awarded a Mint 9 grade to an Illustrator Pikachu, one of the most iconic cards in the Pokémon world, originally distributed in 1998.
Content:
What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and assessed a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card revered for its historical importance within the Pokémon trading card community. Graded by Beckett Grading Services (BGS), this card achieved a Mint 9 status, placing it among the finest-preserved versions known. This achievement adds to Beckett’s history of certifying pivotal collectibles, including previous copies of the Illustrator Pikachu.
The Illustrator Pikachu was awarded to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from typical Pokémon TCG issues. Atsuko Nishida, the original artist of Pikachu, created the artwork for this card.
Configuration at a Glance
- Card: Pokémon Illustrator Pikachu
- Distribution: Given in 1998 to winners of the Pokémon Illustration Contest (not available in packs or stores)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Estimated 101 copies exist, with 41 publicly recognized or graded
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original art by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No standard inserts or parallels; this card is a unique promotional issue
- Its unique distribution and non-standard release give it a special status
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia elements linked to the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card’s importance is derived from its origins, artwork, and contest-related provenance
Collector Notes
- While not the rarest by sheer numbers, the Illustrator Pikachu is deemed one of the most culturally and historically important Pokémon cards.
- About 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 confirmed through grading or public sales.
- Its value and fame are bolstered by its creator, contest heritage, and its status as a high-end Pokémon collecting milestone.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 version achieved superior subgrades compared to a previously graded Beckett copy, in areas such as centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded specimen aids in understanding the card’s survival and condition standards within the collecting community.
- Beckett’s participation ensures credible authentication and documentation for this notable release.
- This card is not associated with any design variations, serial numbers, or parallels.
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