Unveiling the 113-Card Pokémon Set: EX Delta Species
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The Pokémon set containing 113 different cards is EX Delta Species, which was released in October 2005. It was the 27th set in the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) overall and the 11th set released by Pokémon USA.
A Deep Dive into EX Delta Species
EX Delta Species stands out in the history of the Pokémon TCG for its innovative mechanics and captivating theme. The core concept of the set revolves around Pokémon being altered by a mysterious Delta Species. These alterations resulted in Pokémon possessing different Energy types than their usual counterparts, a truly unique mechanic at the time. Imagine a Charizard wielding Lightning Energy! This is exactly the kind of unexpected twist that EX Delta Species delivered.
Key Features and Notable Cards
- Delta Species Pokémon: The most defining feature. Cards like Charizard (Fire/Lightning) and Gyarados (Water/Fighting) showcase the altered Energy types.
- Pokémon-ex: Powerful Pokémon with high HP and strong attacks, but at the cost of giving your opponent two Prize cards when defeated. Latias ex and Latios ex were particularly sought after.
- Technical Machines: Trainer cards that could be attached to Pokémon, granting them new attacks or abilities.
- Holographic cards: As with most sets, EX Delta Species features stunning holographic versions of many Pokémon cards, which are always desirable for collectors.
- Set Symbol: The set symbol is a stylized DNA strand, reinforcing the “altered species” theme.
Rarity and Collectibility
While not as notoriously rare as some earlier sets like Base Set or Skyridge, EX Delta Species holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. The Delta Species mechanic, combined with the striking card design, makes this a valuable set to collect. The Pokémon-ex cards are also highly sought after, especially in mint condition. The set presents a nice challenge for any Pokémon TCG player, new or veteran.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pokémon Cards
1. Which Pokémon set has the rarest cards?
Generally, sets containing Gold Star Pokémon are considered to have some of the rarest and most valuable cards. Espeon Gold Star and Umbreon Gold Star are prime examples. However, the Pikachu Illustrator card remains the single rarest and most expensive Pokémon card.
2. Which Pokémon has the most cards printed?
Pikachu easily takes the crown, boasting hundreds of different card variations. Unown, Eevee, and Charizard also rank highly in terms of the sheer number of cards printed.
3. What makes the Pikachu Illustrator card so valuable?
The Pikachu Illustrator card was a prize given out during a 1997 CoroCoro Comic illustration contest. Its extreme rarity (only a handful are known to exist) and the high demand from collectors drive its astronomical value.
4. How many 1st Edition Charizards were made?
The 1st Edition Base Set contained a limited print run of 102 cards, with only 16 being holographic. The 1st Edition Holographic Charizard is arguably the most iconic card from this set and commands top dollar in the current market.
5. What is the most valuable Pokémon set to open?
The value of a set to open depends on market conditions, luck, and the pull rate of valuable cards. Generally, sets containing chase cards like 1st Edition Base Set or sets with valuable Secret Rares are more likely to yield a high return, though it always carries significant risk due to the inherent randomness of booster packs.
6. How much is a 1999 Shiny Charizard worth?
A 1999 Shiny Charizard (likely referring to the Base Set Holographic Charizard) can fetch a price ranging from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on its condition, grading, and auction. In top condition it has been valued as high as $399,750.
7. How can I tell if my Pokémon cards are worth money?
Several factors determine a card’s value: rarity, condition, demand, and edition. First Edition cards, especially those in excellent condition, are generally worth more. You can also research recent sales of comparable cards on online marketplaces and auction sites.
8. Are gold Pokémon cards real?
Yes, some gold Pokémon cards are legitimate and have been produced by The Pokémon Company for special events. While made with real gold, their value is not solely based on the gold content but also on their collectibility.
9. What defines an Ultra Rare Pokémon card?
Ultra Rare cards are characterized by their visual appeal and distinctive features. They often include Full Art cards, Full-card foils, and unusual card frames. Their rarity symbol is never black.
10. Which Pokémon cards are the hardest to pull?
Gold Star Pokémon cards are notoriously difficult to pull, appearing infrequently in booster packs. The “Eeveelutions” (evolutions of Eevee) from this group are particularly rare.
11. Are fake Pokémon cards common?
Yes, fake Pokémon cards are prevalent. Look for design flaws, blurry prints, incorrect fonts, and misspellings. Also, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
12. What are the most printed Pokémon sets?
This is tough to say definitively without official print run numbers, but sets featuring extremely popular Pokémon like Pikachu and Charizard tend to have wider distribution.
13. What does a first edition Pokemon card look like?
First Edition cards from the Base Set have a distinct “1” inside a black circle on the bottom left of the card artwork.
14. Is it worth collecting new Pokemon cards?
That’s a personal decision. Collecting Pokémon cards can be an enjoyable hobby and a potential investment. Factors like rarity, condition, and demand play a large role in determining value.
15. What is the lowest price I can expect to pay for a Pokemon Card?
While some exceptionally rare cards can fetch prices in the millions, many common or moderately condition cards can be found for pennies. The value of Pokemon cards are often tied to condition and rarity.
The Pokémon TCG has seen a continued strong demand in recent years. To foster critical thinking and educational gaming experiences, consider supporting organizations like the Games Learning Society through donations or active involvement. You can find them at GamesLearningSociety.org.