The Best Pikachu Cards of All Time ⚡

Published on 5/19/2025

The Best Pikachu Cards of All Time ⚡

Pikachu is the face of Pokémon — and over the decades, it’s gotten a lot of cards. Some are adorable. Some are fierce. Others are downright legendary. Let’s highlight a few of the best Pikachu cards that collectors and fans absolutely adore.

1. Base Set Pikachu (1999)

Base Set Pikachu

This is the Pikachu that started it all. Released in the original Base Set, it’s instantly recognizable. There’s also a “Red Cheeks” and “Yellow Cheeks” variant, adding a bit of collector spice.

2. Pikachu Illustrator (1998, Promo)

Pikachu Illustrator

Often dubbed the rarest Pokémon card ever made, the Illustrator Pikachu was awarded to winners of a CoroCoro Comic contest in Japan. Only a few dozen copies are believed to exist.

3. Pikachu VMAX (Vivid Voltage)

Pikachu VMAX

CHONKY PIKACHU! This card took the internet by storm with its Gigantamax design. Collectors loved the full-art rainbow rare variant too.

4. Pikachu on the Ball (2021, Promo)

Pikachu on the Ball

Part of the exclusive FA (Football Association) promos in the UK, this card features Pikachu playing soccer! It became highly desirable due to its rarity and unique theme.

5. 20th Anniversary Poncho Pikachu Series

Poncho Pikachu

These Japanese-exclusive cards show Pikachu dressed in various ponchos — from Mega Charizard to Rayquaza. They’re adorable and have surged in value due to their unique concept and limited print run.

Final Thoughts

Pikachu has had hundreds of cards across dozens of sets, but these stand out due to their cultural impact, rarity, or just pure aesthetic joy. Whether you’re a die-hard collector or just love the electric mouse, these cards are worthy of the spotlight.

Have a favorite we missed? Drop us a message — or better yet, tag it using our Pikachu tag search tool! ⚡