Shadowless Pokemon cards are a highly sought-after and valuable collection of cards from the 1999 English Base Set. These cards hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike, as they represent the earliest version of the Base Set. Their scarcity and rarity make them even more desirable, and they are often considered to be on par with or even more rare than the highly coveted 1st Edition set.
The term “shadowless” refers to a distinct printing error found on these cards. Unlike the subsequent Unlimited Base Set, which featured a shadow behind the Pokemon illustration, the Shadowless cards lack this shadow. This error occurred during the printing process, and as a result, the cards have a cleaner, more vibrant appearance. This unique characteristic adds to their appeal and has made them highly sought after by collectors.
The Shadowless set consists of a total of 104 cards, all of which are considered to be highly valuable in PSA 10 GEM MINT condition. It is worth noting that Gem mint Charizards in the Shadowless set have a particularly low population, making them even more valuable. In fact, the price of a Gem mint Shadowless Charizard can reach an astonishing $80,000.00 or more.
Another intriguing aspect of the Shadowless set is the presence of the Red Cheeks Pikachu Error card. This error occurred when Pikachu’s cheeks were mistakenly colored red instead of their usual yellow. This particular misprint is exclusive to the Shadowless set, adding to its uniqueness and desirability among collectors.
While the Shadowless set may not have the same initial hype as the 1st Edition set, it holds its own special place in the world of Pokemon card collecting. Its scarcity, rarity, and distinct printing error make it a highly sought-after collection for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Shadowless Pokemon cards truly represent a piece of Pokemon history, and their value continues to rise in the collector’s market.
Are Shadowless Pokemon Cards Rare?
Shadowless Pokemon cards are considered rare. These cards are the earliest version of the 1999 English Base Set, which was the first set of Pokemon cards released outside of Japan. The term “Shadowless” refers to the absence of a shadow on the right side of the card artwork, particularly around the Pokemon image.
Here are some key points to consider about the rarity of Shadowless Pokemon cards:
1. Limited Production: The Shadowless Base Set was produced in smaller quantities compared to the Unlimited Base Set, which was released shortly after. This limited production contributes to their rarity.
2. Visual Distinction: Shadowless cards can be easily identified by looking at the right side of the card. If there is no shadow or a faint shadow, then it is a Shadowless card. In contrast, later printings of the Unlimited Base Set have a prominent shadow.
3. Higher Value: Due to their scarcity and rarity, Shadowless Pokemon cards are generally considered more valuable than the Unlimited Base Set. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out these cards to complete their collections or for investment purposes.
4. Collectible Appeal: Shadowless cards hold a special place in the hearts of Pokemon collectors as they represent the early days of the Pokemon TCG’s introduction to the English-speaking market. This historical significance adds to their desirability and value.
5. Rarity Grading: Like other collectible items, the condition of a Shadowless card plays a significant role in determining its value. Cards in pristine condition, with no signs of wear or damage, are highly sought after by collectors.
Shadowless Pokemon cards are indeed rare and highly sought after by collectors due to their limited production, visual distinction, higher value, collectible appeal, and rarity grading considerations.
How Many Shadowless Pokemon Cards Are There?
There are a total of 102 Shadowless Pokemon cards in the set. Shadowless cards are a variation of the original Base Set released in 1999. They can be distinguished by the absence of a shadow underneath the Pokemon illustration. These cards are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance. The Shadowless cards were the first print run of the Base Set and were quickly replaced with the “Unlimited” edition, which featured the addition of a shadow. The Shadowless cards are known for their vibrant colors and crisp artwork. They are considered to be some of the most valuable and iconic cards in the Pokemon TCG. Here is a list of the 102 Shadowless Pokemon cards:
1. Alakazam
2. Blastoise
3. Chansey
4. Charizard
5. Clefairy
6. Gyarados
7. Hitmonchan
8. Machamp
9. Magneton
10. Mewtwo
11. Nidoking
12. Ninetales
13. Poliwrath
14. Raichu
15. Venusaur
16. Zapdos
17. Arcanine
18. Dewgong
19. Dragonair
20. Dugtrio
21. Electrode
22. Farfetch’d
23. Fearow
24. Gloom
25. Golduck
26. Golem
27. Graveler
28. Haunter
29. Hypno
30. Ivysaur
31. Jynx
32. Kadabra
33. Kakuna
34. Machoke
35. Magikarp
36. Magmar
37. Marowak
38. Meowth
39. Metapod
40. Nidorino
41. Pikachu
42. Pidgeotto
43. Pidgeot
44. Pidgey
45. Poliwhirl
46. Ponyta
47. Raticate
48. Rattata
49. Seel
50. Tentacool
51. Wartortle
52. Abra
53. Beedrill
54. Bellsprout
55. Bulbasaur
56. Caterpie
57. Charmander
58. Charmeleon
59. Diglett
60. Dodrio
61. Doduo
62. Drowzee
63. Exeggcute
64. Exeggutor
65. Farfetch’d
66. Gastly
67. Geodude
68. Golbat
69. Goldeen
70. Grimer
71. Growlithe
72. Horsea
73. Hypno
74. Jigglypuff
75. Kabuto
76. Kabutops
77. Koffing
78. Krabby
79. Machop
80. Magnemite
81. Mankey
82. Meowth
83. Metapod
84. Nidoran♀
85. Nidoran♂
86. Nidorina
87. Nidorino
88. Oddish
89. Omanyte
90. Omastar
91. Paras
92. Parasect
93. Persian
94. Pikachu
95. Poliwag
96. Porygon
97. Psyduck
98. Rattata
99. Rhydon
100. Rhyhorn
101. Sandshrew
102. Sandslash
These cards are highly sought after by collectors and can command a high price in the market, especially if they are in PSA 10 Gem Mint condition.
Is Shadowless More Expensive?
The Shadowless set is generally considered to be more expensive than the 1st Edition set. This is due to its rarity and the lower population of gem mint Charizards in the Shadowless set compared to the 1st Edition set.
Here are some key points to consider:
1. Rarity: The Shadowless set is just as rare, if not more rare, than the 1st Edition set. This rarity contributes to its higher price.
2. Gem Mint Charizards: In the collecting community, the Charizard card is highly sought after. Gem mint Charizards in the Shadowless set have a much lower population than those in the 1st Edition set. This scarcity drives up their value significantly.
3. Price: The price of a gem mint Charizard from the Shadowless set can hover around $80,000.00. This is a substantial price tag and reflects the rarity and demand for this particular card.
4. Red Cheeks Pikachu Error: Another interesting aspect of the Shadowless set is the presence of the Red Cheeks Pikachu Error card. This card is also found in the 1st Edition set, but it is noteworthy that it is the only other set where this error card exists. This uniqueness can add to the value and desirability of the Shadowless set.
The Shadowless set is generally considered more expensive due to its rarity, the scarcity of gem mint Charizards, and the presence of the Red Cheeks Pikachu Error card.
Conclusion
Shadowless Pokemon cards are highly sought after and extremely valuable collector’s items. As the earliest version of the 1999 English Base Set, they hold a special place in the hearts of Pokemon enthusiasts. Their scarcity and rarity make them even more desirable, with the entire set of 104 cards in PSA 10 GEM MINT condition being a rare find indeed.
The Shadowless set is often considered to be just as rare, if not more rare, than the 1st Edition set. This is particularly true for the Charizard card, which has a much lower population in Gem Mint condition compared to the 1st Edition set. In fact, the price for a Gem Mint Charizard from the Shadowless set can reach upwards of $80,000.00.
Another interesting aspect of the Shadowless set is the presence of the Red Cheeks Pikachu Error card. This error card is unique to the Shadowless set, adding to its allure and collectibility.
Shadowless Pokemon cards are highly prized by collectors due to their rarity, historical significance, and the excitement they bring to the world of Pokemon collecting. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, owning a complete set of Shadowless cards is a testament to your dedication and love for the franchise.
