Title: Beckett Grades Mint 9 Illustrator Pikachu, Legendary 1998 Pokémon Card
Subtitle: Beckett Collectibles has graded another celebrated copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a cornerstone card in Pokémon history.
Meta Description: Beckett Grading Services has awarded a Mint 9 grade to an Illustrator Pikachu, a pivotal card from 1998, further solidifying its status in Pokémon card collecting.
Content:
What’s New
Beckett Collectibles has once again authenticated and graded a copy of the Illustrator Pikachu, a card of immense historical importance in the Pokémon community. This card was evaluated by Beckett Grading Services (BGS) and received a Mint 9 grade, making it one of the finest preserved examples available. Beckett continues its tradition of certifying key collectibles, including previous instances of the Illustrator Pikachu.
The Illustrator Pikachu was initially awarded to winners of the 1998 Pokémon (CoroCoro Comic) Illustration Contests, setting it apart from regular Pokémon TCG releases. Atsuko Nishida, the original artist for Pikachu, illustrated the 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 retail outlets)
- Grading: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) Mint 9
- Population: Estimated 101 copies exist, with 41 known through public records or grading
- Special Features: Verified provenance, original artwork by Atsuko Nishida
Key Inserts & Parallels
- No conventional inserts or parallels; the card is a singular promotional issue
- Unique status due to its exclusive contest distribution and non-standard release
Autographs & Relics
- No autographs or memorabilia content linked to the Illustrator Pikachu
- The card's importance is rooted in its origin, artwork, and contest background
Collector Notes
- The Illustrator Pikachu is not the rarest by quantity, but it's viewed as one of the most culturally and historically significant Pokémon cards.
- Roughly 101 copies are thought to exist, with 41 documented through grading or public sale.
- The card's prestige and value are augmented by its creator, contest origin, and its status as a high-end Pokémon collecting benchmark.
- The latest BGS Mint 9 version achieved superior subgrades compared to a prior Beckett-graded copy, including centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- Each authenticated and graded copy aids in understanding the card’s survival rate and condition standards within the hobby.
- Beckett’s role provides credible authentication and documentation for this iconic card.
- No design variations, serial numbers, or parallels are linked to this card.
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