The Pokémon Base Set, released in January 1999 by Wizards of the Coast, is the foundational release of the Pokémon Trading Card Game and remains the most iconic and collectible set in the entire TCG history. Featuring 102 cards including the legendary Big Three — Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur — this set introduced millions of players worldwide to the world of Pokémon card collecting and competitive play. Base Set is divided into several print runs including 1st Edition, Shadowless, and Unlimited, each with distinct characteristics that affect card values dramatically. The 1st Edition Shadowless Charizard (4/102) is arguably the most famous Pokémon card ever printed, with PSA 10 examples selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. Key cards in Base Set include the holographic Big Three, Mewtwo (10/102), Alakazam (1/102), Gyarados (6/102), and the elusive Pikachu Red Cheeks error card. The set also contains the essential Trainer cards that defined the early competitive meta: Professor Oak, Bill, Energy Removal, PlusPower, Computer Search, and Super Potion. For collectors, Base Set represents the birthplace of the Pokémon TCG hobby. Its cards are widely recognized even outside the collecting community, making it a perennial entry point for new collectors. The set's iconic card design — with the yellow borders, classic layout, and original 150 Pokémon artwork — evokes powerful nostalgia for the late 1990s Pokémon phenomenon. Today, complete Base Set collections in graded condition are highly sought after. The set's popularity shows no signs of diminishing, with prices for high-grade examples continuing to appreciate year over year. Whether you are chasing a PSA 10 Charizard or assembling a complete binder set, Base Set remains the cornerstone of any serious Pokémon TCG collection.
January 9, 1999
102 cards
6 holographic
Base
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Base Set in the Pokémon TCG?
The Pokémon Base Set, released in January 1999 by Wizards of the Coast, is the foundational release of the Pokémon Trading Card Game and remains the most iconic and collectible set in the entire TCG history. Released as part of the Base series, this set contains 102 cards and remains a cornerstone collection for vintage Pokémon TCG enthusiasts.
How many cards are in Base Set?
Base Set contains 102 cards total, including common, uncommon, rare, and holographic rare cards. The set is part of the Base series of the Pokémon TCG.
When was Base Set released?
Base Set was released on January 9, 1999 as part of the Pokémon Trading Card Game Base expansion cycle.
What are the most valuable cards from Base Set?
The most sought-after cards from Base Set include the holographic rare cards, particularly those featuring popular Pokémon like Charizard, Lugia, Umbreon, and other fan-favorite species. Check our shop page for current singles availability and pricing from this set.
Is Base Set a good investment for Pokémon TCG collectors?
Base Set from the Base series is considered a solid investment for vintage Pokémon TCG collectors. Cards from this era have historically appreciated in value, especially in high-grade (PSA 9-10) condition. The set's historical significance and limited print run make it a staple in any serious collection.
Card List
7 cards in this set
