Pikachu ex
Quick take
- First 'Stellar Tera Type' Pikachu ex
- Artwork features cameo appearances of Gen 1 starters in the background
- Hard counter to the 'Mega' meta in competitive play
- Universal appeal beyond the 'Ascended Heroes' theme
Collector's readWhat it means for your master set
Set landscapeWhere this card sits in Ascended Heroes
VariantsCard variants
Holofoil 276/217 · $877.35 — the only variant this card was printed in (no reverse holo or special pattern), so a master set needs just this one copy.
The storyThe Stellar Crown Jewel of the Expansion
In a set dominated by darker, grittier Mega Evolution designs, Pikachu ex stands out with its vibrant, multi-colored aesthetic. This card represents the culmination of the 'Stellar Tera' mechanic introduced late in the Scarlet & Violet block. It is significant because it is one of the few Basic ex Pokemon in the set that can one-shot Mega Evolved Pokemon due to its 'Giant Bolt' attack scaling with energy types.
“First 'Stellar Tera Type' Pikachu ex”
For collectors, this card is the 'pop culture' anchor. While hardcore fans chase Mega Gengar, casual fans and 'Pikachu completionists' (a massive market segment) are solely focused on this card. It is also the first time Pikachu ex has been printed with the 'Stellar' texture, distinguishing it from previous Paldea Evolved or 151 prints.
By the numbersMarket analysis
High stability. While it hasn't reached the explosive peaks of the Mega Gengar ex (due to lower scarcity), it has the highest 'floor' in the set. It rarely dips below its established market price.
Slow and steady growth. Unlike the volatile 'FOMO' spikes of the Mega cards, Pikachu ex sees consistent daily sales volume, making it the most liquid asset in the expansion.
Safe Haven. When the hype for Mega Evolution fades, Pikachu remains constant. This card is projected to be the best long-term hold for low-risk investors, as Pikachu cards from late-era blocks tend to age exceptionally well (referencing the 'Cosmic Eclipse' Pikachu).
Moderate to High. The complex 'Stellar' foil pattern makes print lines common, so a pristine PSA 10 commands a premium of roughly 2.2x the raw card value.
Approx 1 in 500 packs (Slightly more common than the Mega Chase cards)
Comparable to the 'Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat' promo in terms of visual flair, though obviously a pack-pulled card rather than a promo.
ArtworkWhy the art matters
A fan-favorite artist known for vibrant colors and incredibly expressive character work. Saito is usually associated with high-value 'Waifu' trainer cards, so seeing him tackle a high-profile Pikachu card has generated significant buzz.
Pikachu is depicted mid-leap, wearing the crystalline 'Stellar' crown which refracts light into a rainbow spectrum. The background is a dense, festive parade of confetti and crystal shards. Notably, if you look closely at the bottom corners, you can see the silhouettes of Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur cheering, a nod to the 30th Anniversary festivities looming on the horizon.
The card utilizes a 'Prismatic Etch' technique where the crown and the lightning bolts have a glitter-like texture that shifts color depending on the viewing angle. This is distinct from the 'void' texture used on the Mega cards.
The hidden cameos. The inclusion of the Kanto starters in the artwork elevates this from a standard 'fighting pose' card to a celebration piece, increasing its collectibility significantly.
BackgroundAbout Pikachu ex
Pikachu needs no introduction. However, this specific 'Stellar' form is key to the late Gen 9 video game lore, representing the mastery of all types.
- ›Universal brand recognition
- ›Cute factor combined with competitive viability
- ›The 'Naoki Saito' artist bonus
- ›Face of the franchise
- ›Ash's partner (Anime)
- ›Detective Pikachu (Movie)
Meta-Staple. Its attack 'Topaz Bolt' discards all energy but deals massive damage that ignores damage-reduction effects (like those found on Mega Aggron ex). It is the premier 'Boss Killer' in the current format.
Own it wellCollector guide
The 'Prismatic Etch' is durable, but the edges of this card tend to be rough. Inspect the corners for 'whitening' immediately.
Grade worthy. High population is expected, but demand will always outstrip supply for Pikachu. Aim for PSA 10; PSA 9s may only break even with grading fees. Read the grading guide →
Use 'Clear' matte sleeves to prevent the glossy surface from sticking. Avoid storing in humid environments as the foil curling is more pronounced on Stellar cards. See the storage guide →
Buy during the 'dip' usually 3-4 months post-release. Do not FOMO buy in the first week unless you need it for a tournament. See the singles buying guide →
The Stellar Crown should have a distinct, gritty texture compared to the smooth yellow fur of Pikachu. Fakes often make the entire card smooth.
Protect your card
High Chase Score — protect and consider grading. · Amazon affiliate links · Storage guideWord on the streetCommunity sentiment
Warm and enthusiastic. While not the 'shocker' of the set (pun intended), it is viewed as a high-quality, respectable chase card that anchors the set's value.
- ›Japanese version 'Stellar Miracle' PSA 10: $300
- ›Early English Raw Sales: ~$180
Instagram is flooded with 'Stellar' sparkle videos showing off the foil refraction. It is the most 'photogenic' card in the set.
Good to knowFrequently asked questions
Keep collectingRelated cards
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