The Pokémon card market in 2025 is a tale of two segments: vintage WOTC-era cards (1999–2003) that continue to hold strong values, and a selective group of modern alt-arts and Secret Rares that have proven their staying power. Here are the 10 Pokémon cards generating the highest loan amounts at CardPawn this year.

#1 — 1999 Base Set 1st Edition Charizard Holo #4

The uncontested king of Pokémon cards and one of the most recognizable collectibles on earth.

  • PSA 10 Gem Mint: $350,000–$500,000+ CAD
  • PSA 9 Mint: $20,000–$40,000 CAD
  • PSA 8 NM-MT: $8,000–$14,000 CAD
  • PSA 7 NM: $3,500–$6,000 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 60–70% at all grades above PSA 7

#2 — 1999 Base Set 1st Edition Shadowless Booster Pack

Sealed 1st Edition packs are among the most coveted items in the entire hobby.

  • PSA 10 pack grade: $1,500–$3,000+ CAD per pack
  • Full box (36 packs, authenticated): $150,000–$250,000 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 55–65%

#3 — 1999 Base Set Shadowless Charizard Holo

Slightly more accessible than 1st Edition, still exceptional value.

  • PSA 10: $20,000–$40,000 CAD
  • PSA 9: $3,000–$6,000 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 60–70%

#4 — 2016 Pokémon XY Evolutions Charizard-EX Secret Rare PSA 10

The modern "Charizard tax" card — extreme demand from collectors who can't afford vintage.

  • PSA 10: $2,500–$5,000 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 55–65%

#5 — 2021 Evolving Skies Umbreon VMAX Alt Art #215

The premier modern Pokémon card — every serious modern collector wants one.

  • PSA 10: $2,000–$4,000 CAD
  • PSA 9: $600–$1,200 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 55–60%

#6 — 2022 Crown Zenith Charizard VSTAR Rainbow Rare PSA 10

  • PSA 10: $800–$1,500 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 50–60%

#7 — 1999 Base Set Unlimited Charizard PSA 10

The most accessible pathway to Charizard PSA 10 ownership — still generates strong loans.

  • PSA 10: $3,000–$6,000 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 55–65%

#8 — 2022 Pokémon GO Radiant Charizard PSA 10

  • PSA 10: $400–$800 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 50–60%

#9 — 2021 Battle Styles Rapid Strike Urshifu VMAX Alt Art PSA 10

Consistently strong demand from alt-art collectors; limited print run.

  • PSA 10: $600–$1,200 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 50–60%

#10 — 2020 SWSH Black Star Promo Pikachu VMAX Rainbow PSA 10

  • PSA 10: $300–$600 CAD
  • CardPawn LTV: 50–55%

Honourable Mentions: High-Value Pokémon Singles Also Worth Pawning

  • 2000 Gym Heroes Lt. Surge's Raichu 1st Ed PSA 10 — $3,000–$6,000 CAD
  • 2000 Team Rocket Dark Charizard 1st Ed PSA 10 — $2,000–$4,000 CAD
  • 2003 Skyridge Charizard Holo PSA 10 — $8,000–$15,000 CAD
  • 2022 Pokémon VSTAR Universe Arceus VSTAR SR PSA 10 — $800–$1,600 CAD

Applying with a Pokémon Card

Submit your Pokémon card through our application form. Include the set name, card number, edition (1st/shadowless/unlimited), grading service and grade, and PSA/CGC certification number. Upload photos of front, back, and grading label. Our appraisers will cross-reference eBay sold listings, PWCC results, and the PSA/CGC population reports to provide a market-accurate offer within 2 hours.