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Introduction

In the world of Pokemon cards, there are various versions of the base set that collectors and enthusiasts should be aware of. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the three main versions of the base set: unlimited, shadowless, and first edition shadowless. By understanding the differences between these versions, collectors can make informed decisions when buying and selling Pokemon cards.

First Edition Shadowless

The first version to consider is the first edition shadowless set. These cards were released when Pokemon first hit the market and hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. One distinguishing feature of first edition cards is the presence of a stamp on the card. This stamp indicates that the card is part of the first edition set. However, it’s important to note that the presence of a shadow on the card’s border is crucial in identifying a true first edition card. If an English card claims to be first edition but has a shadow, it is likely a counterfeit. Careful inspection is necessary to ensure that you are purchasing genuine first edition shadowless cards.

Shadowless

The next version of the base set to examine is the shadowless cards. These cards were released after the first edition set and are characterized by the absence of a shadow on the card’s border. While shadowless cards do not have the first edition stamp, they are still highly sought after by collectors. The card’s reverse side remains unchanged across all versions of the base set.

Unlimited

The majority of Charizard cards you will encounter are from the unlimited base set. These cards bear shadows on their borders, distinguishing them from the shadowless cards. It is essential to note that these cards are commonly referred to as “shadowed” Charizards. Comparatively, the shadowless Charizards exhibit a slightly darker color scheme, with wings that appear green rather than blue in the unlimited version. While the shadowless cards may seem similar to the unlimited ones, their rarity has driven up their value over the years. Currently, shadowless cards can range in price from $60 to $120, while the unlimited base set Charizard typically sells for about $30 to $50.

Pricing & Rarity

When it comes to first edition Charizard cards, determining their price and rarity can be quite tricky. Grade plays a significant role in the value of these cards. For instance, a grade five Charizard can fetch around $600 to $700 in the current market. However, as the grade increases, so does the price. Jumping to grades six, seven, or eight can increase the value by approximately $100 at each level. Grade eights, in particular, have recently climbed to over $1,000. Moving up to grades nine and ten can significantly impact the price, with some cards selling for thousands of dollars. In fact, a recent auction on eBay saw a Charizard card sell for a staggering $16,000.

Conclusion

To summarize, the base set of Pokemon cards includes three main versions: unlimited, shadowless, and first edition shadowless. The first edition shadowless cards feature a distinct stamp and lack shadows on the borders. Shadowless cards, on the other hand, lack the stamp but still do not have any shadows. Finally, the unlimited base set comprises cards with shadows on their borders, commonly known as “shadowed” Charizards. It is crucial for collectors to understand the differences between these versions to avoid purchasing counterfeit cards and to make informed decisions based on their rarity and value.

For additional information or any questions, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading, and happy collecting!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.