The 10 Most Valuable Pokémon TCG 151 Cards You’re Still Hunting in Sealed Packs
Introduction: The Rising Value of Pokémon TCG’s 151 Expansion
Although more than a year and a half has passed since the release of the Pokémon TCG’s 151 expansion for the Scarlet & Violet set, demand remains incredibly high. This surge is driven by a wave of nostalgia for the original Pocket Monsters featured and the ongoing scarcity of these cards on the market.
Even cards that are more readily available can fetch a significant price, but the limited supply and high demand have pushed certain cards into the premium price range. Collectors and players alike are eager to get their hands on these rare treasures, especially in sealed booster packs.
Overview: The Most Expensive 151 Cards in the Market Today
If you’re eager to know which cards are currently the most valuable in the Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet 151 set, here’s a quick rundown. The top five cards are all worth at least $40, with the three most coveted ones soaring above $50. These prices reflect their current market value on popular trading card platforms, making them a worthwhile target for collectors and enthusiasts.
Compared to other recent sets, these prices are relatively reasonable—especially considering some of the rarest cards, like the Destiny Rivals singles, can go for over $500! Notably, the special illustration Charizard ex remains one of the priciest cards, often valued between $170 and $185.
The Top 10 Most Valuable Pokémon TCG 151 Cards
10. Ivysaur – 167/165
This full-art holofoil Ivysaur card, illustrated by Yoriyuki Ikegami, captures the beauty and emotion of the Seed Pokémon. Depicted in a lush forest, staring into a water reflection that shows its younger self, the artwork is both vibrant and evocative.
From a gameplay perspective, Ivysaur boasts 100 HP, making it a sturdy Stage 1 Pokémon. Its moves—Vine Whip for 80 damage and Leech Seed for healing—add both strategic value and visual appeal, making it a favorite among collectors and players alike.
9. Charmeleon – 169/165
Illustrated by Miki Kudo, this Charmeleon features a mountainous backdrop that echoes its fiery habitat. As a Stage 1 rare, it stands out for its detailed artwork and thematic consistency.
While its Fire Blast attack requires discarding an Energy—potentially cumbersome—it deals 90 damage, which can be crucial early in matches. Evolving quickly can make this card a powerful asset in fiery decks.
8. Bulbasaur – 166/165
This adorable Bulbasaur, also illustrated by Ikegami, captures the charm of the original Grass starter. Sitting peacefully under a tree, it embodies the nostalgic feel fans love.
With 70 HP and Leech Seed as its attack, it’s a reliable Basic Pokémon that can take a hit or two at the start of a game. Its artwork elevates it beyond just a playable card, making it a must-have for collectors of the original Kanto starters.
7. Alakazam ex – 201/165
Alakazam ex, with its psychic prowess, is one of the priciest ex cards in the set. Its design, by Shinya Komatsu, shows the Pokémon in a cozy setting, surrounded by potions and books, emphasizing its mental mastery.
Its moves—Mind Jack and Dimensional Hand—allow it to deal significant damage by targeting benched Pokémon, making it a strategic addition to Psychic-type decks. Its appealing artwork adds to its desirability and market value.
6. Squirtle – 170/165
This stunning Squirtle, illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita, depicts the Tiny Turtle in ocean waters near a beach. Arita’s artwork is renowned for its detail and vibrancy, and this card is no exception.
Though its gameplay attributes—Withdraw and Skull Bash—are modest, the artwork’s beauty pushes its price higher. It’s more of a collectible masterpiece than a competitive card, appreciated for its artistic value.
5. Charmander – 168/165
The most valuable of the original Kanto Fire starters, this Charmander, also by Miki Kudo, is depicted in a mountainous canyon setting, matching the theme of its evolutions.
With its fiery attacks—one dealing damage and another removing Stadium cards—it’s essential for Fire-type decks. Its high market value reflects its importance and the nostalgic connection to the iconic starter Pokémon.
4. Zapdos ex – 202/165
Designed by Shiburingaru, Zapdos ex soars majestically through the sky alongside legendary companions Moltres and Articuno. The artwork captures the electric bird’s majestic presence, making it a centerpiece of the set.
Its abilities, including Voltaic Float and Multishot Lightning, provide versatile options in battles. Its impressive look and powerful moves make it one of the most sought-after Legendary Pokémon cards.
3. Venusaur ex – 198/165
This vibrant, full-art Venusaur ex showcases a calm yet commanding presence, with a detailed and colorful design by Yoriyuki Ikegami. As the final stage of the Grass starter, it exudes strength and resilience.
With an impressive 340 HP, it can heal and inflict status conditions like Poison and Confusion. Its artwork and durability place it among the top-tier cards valued by collectors and players alike.
2. Blastoise ex – 200/165
Another Arita masterpiece, this Blastoise ex features the mighty Water Pokémon emerging from the ocean, with a detailed underwater scene. Its artwork, combined with its gameplay potential, drives its high market price.
Its Twin Cannon attack can deal up to 280 damage at the cost of discarding Energy, and its Solid Shell ability helps reduce damage taken. This card is a prized possession for fans of the Blastoise line.
1. Charizard ex – 199/165
The most expensive card in the set, Charizard ex, is valued at over $173. Its full-art, stunning illustration by Miki Kudo depicts Charizard soaring above a fiery volcano, symbolizing its fiery power and legendary status.
This card completes the iconic trilogy, starting from Charmander below, then Charmeleon, and finally Charizard blazing in the sky. Its market value is boosted by the nostalgia for the original Charizard from the base set and its striking design.
With powerful attacks like Brave Wing and Explosive Vortex, it’s a formidable card—best kept in a protective case rather than a tournament deck to preserve its pristine condition.
Alex "Pixel" Petrov
Gaming journalist & industry insider. Covers the latest game releases, updates, and behind-the-scenes dev stories. Knows every Easter egg, patch note, and upcoming title worth hyping. Always gaming, always analyzing.