We always hear about the latest cards, the artists behind them, and the expected value, but we often forget about the sets they come from. That stops today. Here, we cover the best Pokémon sets of all time.
Our experts have been filtering through their old binders, checking out the recent sales, listening to collectors, and otherwise getting deep into the hobby in the hopes of establishing a list of the very best Pokémon sets available. You’ll find hits of nostalgia, valuable collections, the introduction of Gen II, and much more. Shall we get started?
We plan on wasting as little time as possible with this one and will dedicate this opening section to the best Pokémon sets that you can find today. We provide an overview of why this particular expansion has made the cut, and provide a snapshot of some of the best Pokémon cards from that specific set.
Was there ever going to be any other choice? The Pokémon Base Set is where it all began. Charizard, Pikachu, Mewtwo, and almost all your Kanto favorites feature in the first-ever Pokémon set, and it remains one of the most sought-after collections to this day.
A binder full of base set cards feels like opening up a time capsule back to early childhood. Playground trades, scratched Charizards (how could we?), and waiting patiently to watch the anime on the weekends.
Surprisingly, despite its clear appeal, you’ll find that the price tag associated with the Base Set is fairly competitive. Some top-end cards will cost you, but you can fill up your binders with commons at around $0.50-$1.00 a pop.
| Card | Number | Ungraded Value | Artist | Significance Within the Set |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charizard | 004 | $800 | Mitsuhira Arita | The first true Pokémon grail |
| Mewtwo | 010 | $77.73 | Ken Sugimori | An iconic character |
| Alakazam | 001 | $71.88 | Ken Sugimori | First card in the set |
Crown Zenith comes in second. Collectors looking at grading Pokémon cards love this set, thanks to the Galarian Gallery. Here, you will find some beautiful, connecting arts, including the set of Entei, Raikou, and Suicune. Not to mention the gold Arceus, Dialga, Giratina, and Palkia.
The hit rate of this set is another reason it made our list. We know that ripping packs isn’t all about hitting every time, but you won’t be far off with Crown Zenith. With such a huge gallery to fill, full art cards are never too far away, making it fun for those playing, collecting, grading, or reselling.
As a matter of fact, the gallery has proven so popular that many collectors have opted against the usual master set approach and have instead looked at collecting all gallery cards.
| Card | Number | Ungraded value | Artist | Significance within the set |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arceus VStar | GG70 | $222 | Akira Egawa | The god of all Pokémon |
| Mewtwo VStar | GG44 | $302 | Gossan | Combines two iconic characters |
| Entei V | GG36 | $52.81 | Shigenori Negishi | Part of the legendary beasts trio |
If it is higher-end cards you are after, then Aquapolis has the most valuable Pokémon cards on this list, and falls just behind Skyridge in the most valuable set of all time.
The increase in price is down to a few key things, including its low original print runs – something that was decided during a period of reduced interest in Pokémon as a whole. Now, however, the cards in this set are considered some of the most sought-after, featuring fan favorites like Umbreon, Tyranitar, Arcanine, and of course, Lugia.
Aquapolis saw the introduction of crystal cards and has that familiar e-reader design that gives you that true nostalgic feel.
| Card | Number | Ungraded value | Artist | Significance within the set |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lugia | 149 | $2,225 | Naoyo Kimura | The Aquapolis grail |
| Umbreon | H29 | $1,253 | Mitsuhiro Arita | Umbreon. Need we say more? |
| Houndoom | H11 | $400 | Hajime Kusajima | Beautiful artwork |
This set gives you that same hit of nostalgia but with a modern twist. We now see some of the Kanto greats in full art form, with fresh artwork and some beautiful designs from leading artists.
Unsurprisingly, this set continues to gain traction and is a staple of most Pokémon card break platforms. At these sites, you can purchase packs (or tiered package deals), wait for your cards to be digitally ripped or live-streamed, and soon add some 151 artwork to your portfolio. You can then decide whether to sell or have your cards shipped to you.
For a modern set, prices are high. But what do you expect when you’re covering all the childhood classics?
| Card | Number | Ungraded value | Artist | Significance within the set |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charizard ex | 199 | $383 | Miki Kudo | The 151 grail |
| Zapdos ex | 202 | $102 | Shiburingaru | Features the three legendary birds |
| Venusaur ex | 198 | $115 | Yoriyuki Ikehami | Exceptional artwork |
There is a lot of nostalgia bias surrounding Kanto, and we agree that the original 151 has its appeal. However, there is something beautiful about Neo Genesis and the introduction of Gen II.
You’ll still find the old design on these cards, but there is something extra special about those holos: swirls. It doesn’t seem like much, but a clear swirl is enough to pump up the value and the overall look and feel of these cards, making your collection pop as you flick through your binder.
Much like Aquapolis, the print run for Neo Genesis was considerably smaller than that of the unlimited base set, so naturally the appeal of this one is much higher for collectors. For players, you’ll also find the introduction of tools, new energies, and baby Pokémon.
| Card | Number | Ungraded value | Artist | Significance within the set |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lugia | 9 | $528 | Hironobu Yoshida | Neo Genesis grail |
| Pichu | 12 | $118 | Ken Sugimori | Baby Pikachu |
| Typhlosion | 17 | $198 | Shin-ichi Yoshida | Final evolution of popular starter |
When reviewing the most valuable Pokémon sets, it is easy to judge based on some pretty straightforward criteria. However, we have strayed a little outside of the box with this list, focusing on the following.
That covers everything we look for, but what about you? Pokémon has a huge collecting community, covering everything from full sets and graded cards to plushies and sealed collections. You need to think about what really interests you, and then you can begin your own search.
It is easy to suggest the Base Set here, but you can find a modern twist with the S&V 151, Johto coverage in Neo Genesis, a smaller collection in Jungle, and some classics in Team Rocket or Gym Heroes.
Consider sets that feature your favorite Pokémon or look to build your own master set of specific Pokémon.
If money is no object, then sets such as Skyridge, Aquapolis, and EX Team Rocket Returns should be on your radar.
This is for those who keep things sealed. You won’t necessarily build master sets, but you may wish to save some ETBs or booster boxes from your favorite sets.
This is not investment advice, but most commonly, sets that feature iconic characters with lower print runs have continued to do well.
We are just about finished for now, but let us quickly mention that we plan to keep this guide updated to offer a well-rounded look at the best Pokémon sets available.
For now, we have to say that the Base Set, Crown Zenith, Aquapolis, S&V 151, and Neo Genesis are the front-runners. All have sought-after grails, and all manage to offer something unique. The Base Set is the original; Crown Zenith is packed with hits; Aquapolis is of higher value; 151 has modernized Kanto; Neo Genesis introduces Gen II and becomes a favorite for swirl hunters.
Ready to start collecting? Use the on-page banners and links to explore our recommended card break sites, compare the Pokémon sets available, and find the platform that’s right for your next big pull.
No. There is no strict order that you need to collect Pokémon sets, but you will find that you need to collect all cards within a set for it to be considered mastered.
It all depends on your preferences. Neo Genesis and base set have that vintage feel, Aquapolis has a larger price tag, Zenith is packed with hits, and 151 brings that Kanto nostalgia into the modern era.
Yes. If you like the Pokémon and artists that feature in an upcoming set, it is worth considering. Bear in mind that Pokémon isn’t just for collectors, so if you play the game, consider how cards will add to your deck.
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