Logan Paul, a controversial figure known for his presence on YouTube and in the WWE, has announced plans to auction off a rare Pokémon card that he purchased for a staggering $5.3 million in 2022. During a segment on Fox Business’ “The Big Money Show,” Paul discussed the rising importance of nontraditional investments, especially in collectibles like Pokémon cards, as alternatives to the stock market.
The card in question is a PSA 10 Illustrator Pikachu, which was released as part of a Japanese promotion in 1997. This specific card is recognized as the only one of its kind with a perfect grading, making it a highly sought-after item among collectors. Even less pristine versions of the card typically fetch prices starting at around $80,000, according to Price Charting.
Paul announced that the auction for the coveted card will take place in February. He showcased the card during the television appearance, displaying it in a diamond-encrusted case that reportedly cost $75,000. “It’s the rarest and most valuable Pokémon card in the world. Pokémon as an asset class has outperformed the stock market by upwards of 3,000% in the last 20 years,” Paul asserted.
His foray into the trading card market is largely driven by the wealth he amassed from his early career on YouTube. “As a kid who grew up playing the game, I was like, ‘Oh wow, there’s a trading card game here, and I can spend my entire net worth on it.’ And I did that with this card,” he recounted, reflecting on his passion for the franchise.
Paul’s acquisition of the Illustrator Pikachu card set a new Guinness World Record for the most expensive Pokémon card ever sold, although he admitted he currently has no means to determine its present value. “I don’t know. We will see,” he said candidly, showcasing the uncertainty that accompanies high-value collectibles.
Investing in trading cards, particularly in a vast collection like Pokémon, can be both rewarding and unpredictable. The value of specific series can fluctuate dramatically based on factors such as new releases, the emergence of top chase cards, and issues of supply. Recent collections, including Prismatic Evolutions and the 151 Expansion, have seen reprints due to increased demand, often featuring valuable cards like the full-art special illustration rare Umbreon EX and the full-art secret rare Charizard EX. The ungraded Umbreon EX is currently valued at just over $1,000, while a PSA 10 version of the Charizard hovers around the same price.
For those new to the hobby, Paul advises starting small by purchasing cards that resonate personally. “I love Pokémon more than anything. I have one tattoo on my body, and it’s a Squirtle,” he said, revealing his deep connection to the franchise.
Interestingly, one dedicated fan known as “Kabuto King” has dramatically inflated the market price of the Kabuto card from 1999 by acquiring over 2,000 first edition, mint-condition copies. This card has seen its average online selling price soar from $4.39 in August to approximately $42.66 now, highlighting how individual collectors can influence market dynamics.
As Paul prepares for the auction of the Illustrator Pikachu card, the broader significance of his venture lies in the growing acceptance of collectibles as viable investment options. The intersection of pop culture and finance continues to intrigue a diverse array of investors, as the trading card market evolves in response to changing consumer interests and economic conditions.
