Top Eight Legendary Pokémon Cards to Invest In
Top Eight Legendary Pokémon Cards to Invest In

Top Eight Legendary Pokémon Cards to Invest In

Fans covet Legendary Pokémon cards like Mewtwo, Ho-Oh, and Lugia. Their limited numbers and collectors' love for Pokémon could make them good alternative investments.

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Pokémon cards have always been a super fun hobby for collectors and gamers. But did you know that legendary Pokémon cards are the real stars when it comes to investing? They feature the coolest and rarest Pokémon, like Mewtwo, Ho-Oh, and Lugia, and fans and investors can't get enough of them.

Lately, the demand for these cards has gone through the roof. How about a 1999 holographic Charizard card that sold for a mind-blowing  $399,750 in June 2021? Or a Mewtwo holographic card (PSA 10) that went for $22,655 in 2020? Yup, these legendary cards sure are turning heads and getting people talking.

In March 2022, Logan Paul's Pikachu Illustrator Pokemon card achieved a Guinness World Record after the YouTuber paid $5.2 million for the rare promotional card.

But what makes these cards so special and valuable? Well, it's all about their rarity. Legendary Pokémon cards were only released in limited numbers, making them hard to find. They were often only available through snazzy promotions or events, making them even more exclusive.

So, as time goes by and fewer cards are out there, their value keeps growing. How cool is that?

Another factor contributing to legendary Pokémon cards' investment potential is the franchise's continued popularity. Pokémon has been a pop culture staple for over two decades and shows no signs of slowing down.

New generations of fans continue to discover and fall in love with the series, ensuring that demand for these cards will remain high. Whether you're a die-hard fan or an investor, these cards are worth considering for your collection.

What makes Legendary Pokémon cards so valuable?

Legendary Pokémon cards were first introduced in the early days of the Pokémon Trading Card Game in 1996. These cards feature some of the rarest and most powerful creatures in the Pokémon universe. But what makes these cards so special?

For starters, legendary Pokémon cards are incredibly rare. Many of them were only available in limited-edition sets or as promotional cards. Take the Mewtwo EX card from the XY evolutions, for example. This card is rare and highly valued for its strong gameplay abilities, selling for as much as $2,659.84 in top condition.

Another reason legendary Pokémon cards are so valuable is their amazing designs. Many of these cards show off gorgeous artwork and snazzy holographic touches that make them pop in any collection.

Take the Lugia Legend card from the HeartGold and SoulSilver expansion, for example. This card is super special because two cards join forces to create one awesome powerhouse, making it unique and super sought-after by collectors. No wonder fans go nuts for these fantastic cards.

Of course, the fact that these cards feature some of the most powerful and iconic Pokémon in the series also adds to their appeal. Who wouldn't want to own a card featuring the likes of Rayquaza or Ho-Oh?

These Pokémon are rare and legendary in the truest sense of the word. And if you're lucky enough to own a card like the Ho-Oh GX from the Shining Legends expansion, you could be looking at a card worth upwards of $100.

In short, legendary Pokémon cards are valuable because they’re scarce, beautifully designed, feature some of the most powerful and iconic Pokémon in the series, and are thus coveted by collectors. So if you're a collector or investor looking to add some rare Pokemon cards to your collection, watch out for these legendary treasures.

Legendary Pokémon cards list

Thanks to their unbeatable powers and eye-catching designs, legendary Pokémon cards have always been a big hit with fans. But lately, they've turned out to be more than just nifty collectibles or deck boosters—they've become investment goldmines.

Pokémon cards like EX Team Rocket Returns, Dragon Majesty, and various VMAX Pokémon have made their way into top competitive decks, causing their value to soar and making everyone want to catch 'em all.

Investors can exploit this trend by targeting the best legendary Pokémon cards to invest in. These cards have high usage rates and are essential to their respective decks. Investing in these cards can potentially earn a significant return on your investment.

A 1st edition Mewtwo-Holo #10 Gem Mint sold for $22,655 in 2020.
Source: psacard.com

These cards might be all the rage now, but their charm is far from new. Many legendary and basic Pokémon first wowed us in video games, creating unforgettable moments that made us love them even more. Remember when the Crown Tundra expansion pass for Pokémon Sword and Shield brought back some of the coolest legendary Pokémon like Glastrier and Spectrier? Yep, that was a major fan-pleaser.

So whether you're a collector or an investor, you can't help but be drawn to legendary Pokémon cards. If you keep an eye on the most popular and game-changing cards, you might score a sweet return on your investment while basking in these legendary critters' awesome designs and epic power. So let's dive into the fantastic world of legendary Pokémon and see which ones deserve a spot in our portfolios.

1. 2002 Legendary Mewtwo Reverse Foil

  • Price Range: $166 to $3,500
  • Highest Sale Price: $3,500
  • PSA 10 Supply: 46
  • Type: Psychic

A PSA 10-graded 2002 Pokemon Legendary Collection Reverse Holo Mewtwo #29 sold for $3,500
Source: psacard.com

Mewtwo, the enhanced clone of Mew, is undoubtedly one of the most popular and beloved Pokémon legends of all time. Due to their immense popularity, Mewtwo legendary cards are precious in Pokémon card collecting.

Their powerful and fierce appearance inspires the design of Mewtwo's legendary cards. The cards feature an impressive image of Mewtwo, highlighting its legendary status. The card design's striking colors and intricate details make it a must-have for Pokémon collectors.

The value of Mewtwo legendary cards can vary depending on the specific card and its condition. For example, a first-edition PSA 10 Mewtwo holographic card sold for $22,655 in 2020. 

Also, a PSA 10-graded 2002 Pokemon Legendary Collection Reverse Holo Mewtwo #29 sold for $3,500 at an eBay auction in April 2021. This price tag may seem steep, but it’s a small price for collectors and enthusiasts to pay to own a piece of Pokémon history.

Loads of celebs have shared their love for Mewtwo and its legendary cards. One of them is well-known YouTuber Logan Paul, who also happens to be a Pokémon super-fan. In a video, he unboxed a pack of Pokémon cards and went bonkers after finding a Mewtwo holo card. This wild enthusiasm shows how big of a deal Mewtwo is in the Pokémon TCG universe.

Overall, the history and design of Mewtwo legendary cards make them a highly coveted item among Pokémon enthusiasts. The impressive image of Mewtwo on the card and its popularity and rarity has made it a valuable addition to any collection. So, if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one of these cards, cherish it as your collection’s pride and joy.

2. Ho-Oh Legend - HeartGold and SoulSilver #112

  • Price Range: $6 to $1,200
  • Highest Sale Price: $1,200 
  • PSA 10 Supply: 30
  • Type: Fire

In October 2020, the Pokemon Ho-Oh Legend card from HeartGold and SoulSilver #112 was sold for an impressive $1,200.
Source: psacard.com 

If you're a keen follower of the latest Pokémon TCG news or a Pokémon TCG collector, you might want to consider getting your hands on a Ho-Oh Legendary card. Why, you ask? Well, it's part of the Neo Revelation set, released back in 2001. That was over two decades ago.

Aside from its age, the Ho-Oh Legendary card is also valuable because of its design. The card features Ho-Oh's rainbow wings and tail and is a stunning addition to any collection. Plus, the artwork is unique to the Neo Revelation set, making it even more special.

So, what makes the Ho-Oh legendary card so cool? Ho-Oh is indeed a Pokémon legend, instantly setting it apart from ordinary Pokémon cards in value. Moreover, this distinct legendary Pokémon is linked with the Rainbow Wing and plays a crucial role in creating the legendary beasts. These unique characteristics contribute to the card's worth and make it an essential piece for collectors.

In fact, the legendary Ho-Oh evolution card has been known to sell for hundreds of dollars on sites like eBay. So, if you're lucky enough to come across one in good condition, it could be worth a pretty Pokédollar.

3. Kyogre-Holo #071 (Legendary Pokemon Present Campaign)

  • Price Range: $100 to $880
  • Highest Sale Price: $1,225
  • Supply: 72
  • Type: Water

The Kyogre-Holo #071 PSA 10 was sold for $1,225 at an eBay auction.
Source: psacard.com

Kyogre is a legendary Pokémon that has made quite a splash in the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). The Kyogre Legendary card was first introduced in the EX Ruby & Sapphire expansion in 2003, and it's been making waves ever since. The card features artwork by Ryo Ueda and is a holographic card, which means it looks shiny and reflective when viewed at certain angles.

The Kyogre card's design reflects its powerful abilities in the Pokémon games, with high attack and defense stats and the ability to summon powerful rainstorms. It's no wonder collectors vigorously seek the card, which can fetch high prices on the secondary market. A first-edition Kyogre card in gem mint condition was recently sold for $1,225 on eBay.

The Kyogre card has been reprinted in multiple sets and featured in various promotional releases. One such promotional release was the Kyogre Box in 2015, which included a holofoil version of the card. The card has also been featured in the XY Primal Clash expansion released the same year, and the XY Ancient Origins expansion, released in 2016.

If you're a collector looking to add the Kyogre Legendary card to your collection, you'll need to be prepared to shell out some serious cash. But with its stunning design and powerful abilities, it's sure to make a splash.

4. Rayquaza Holo #075

  • Price Range: $255 to $1,583
  • Highest Sale Price: $1,583
  • PSA 10 Supply: 107
  • Type: Dragon/Flying

A 2010 Rayquaza Holo Pokemon Legendary #075 PSA 10 sold for $1,583 on eBay.
Source: psacard.com

If you're a Pokémon card collector, you might want to watch for the Rayquaza legendary card. This is one of the most valuable cards out there, and it's not hard to see why. First off, Rayquaza is a legendary Pokémon, and who doesn't want to have such a powerful and rare creature in their collection? But that's not all. Rayquaza is also a dual-type Dragon/Flying Pokémon, making it even more unique. 

In the Pokémon Emerald game, Rayquaza plays a crucial role in ending the conflict between Kyogre and Groudon. It's the game’s mascot featured on the cover art and the leader of the super-ancient Pokémon trio. Plus, players in Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire must catch a specific Rayquaza to Mega Evolve any Rayquaza. 

The Rayquaza Legendary Card features the iconic design of the Pokémon with its green, serpentine body and horn-like features on its head and jawline. The yellow, ring-like symbols on its body add to the card's aesthetic appeal—it's a card that's both visually stunning and rare. 

A super rare card set of Rayquaza EX #145 sold for $2,426.60 at an eBay auction in September 2020. That's a lot of money for a single card, but it's worth having such a valuable and beautiful Pokemon in your collection.

5. Giratina EX #146 (Super Rare Card Set Get!)

  • Price Range: $1,526 to $1,800
  • Highest Sale Price: $1,800 (PSA 9)
  • PSA 10 Supply: 44
  • Type: Psychic

The Giratina EX #146 (Super Rare Card Set) sold for $1,800 at an eBay auction in February 2021.
Source: psacard.com

Giratina is a widely coveted legendary Pokémon, so naturally, it has a super valuable card. The Beckett sports card and collectibles grading authority suggests that a gem mint Giratina legendary Pokemon card can be worth thousands of dollars. As a testament to its rarity and worth, a pristine PSA 9 Giratina EX #146 card fetched an astounding $1,800 during an eBay auction in February 2021.

The value of the Giratina Legendary card stems from the character's popularity and its rarity. Featured as a prominent character in the now out-of-print Platinum Arceus set from 2009, the circulation of Giratina Legendary cards is relatively limited, further elevating their worth.

Aesthetically, the Giratina Legendary card skillfully captures the essence of the Pokemon. It highlights Giratina's Origin Form—its most potent form—and boasts exceptional artwork with intricate detailing. Being a holographic card only adds to its appeal.

However, the true value of the Giratina Legendary card lies in its significance within the Pokémon universe. Giratina is an iconic and powerful legendary Pokémon that has taken on crucial roles in various Pokémon media, such as Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life and the Pokémon Platinum game. As the game mascot featured on the Pokémon Platinum cover art, Giratina holds a unique position in the hearts of fans across the globe.

6. Darkrai & Cresselia Legend-Holo #99

  • Price Range: $15 to $500
  • Highest Sale Price: $480
  • PSA 10 Supply: 93
  • Type: Darkness/Psychic

In December 2022, the Darkrai & Cresselia Legend-Holo #99 Pokemon card reached a remarkable sale price of up to $480 on eBay.
Source: psacard.com

Cresselia is one of the most coveted Legendary Pokémon in the world of trading cards, and it's not hard to see why. With its striking design, unique abilities, and rich backstory, Cresselia's legendary card is highly sought by collectors and players alike.

The Cresselia legendary card has been a mainstay of the Pokémon TCG since its introduction in the Diamond and Pearl expansion in 2007. With its blue and yellow color scheme and intricate artwork, the card is a feast for the eyes, and its rarity only adds to its appeal.

But it's not just the aesthetics of the card that make it valuable. Cresselia's unique abilities make it a powerful addition to any player's deck. With its ability to dispel nightmares and bring happy dreams, Cresselia can be a game-changer in battle, and its healing techniques can turn the tide of a game in an instant. 

And then there are the moves only Cresselia can learn: Lunar Dance and Lunar Blessing. Players covet these moves, which can give them a huge advantage in battle. It's no wonder that Cresselia is such a popular card among competitive players. Whether you're a collector or looking to crush your opponent, a Cresselia card won't let you down.

7. Kyurem EX-Holo #44 

  • Price Range: $8 to $275
  • Highest Sale Price: $275
  • PSA 10 Supply: 11
  • Type: Water

The Kyurem EX 2013 Legendary Treasures Holo #44 PSA 10, worth over $100
Source: psacard.com

If you're a Pokémon Trading Card Game enthusiast, a legendary Kyurem card might pique your interest. Kyurem belongs to the Tao trio—legendary Pokémon from the Unova region—alongside Reshiram and Zekrom. Acquiring these three cards is essential for any trainer aiming to conquer the Unova region.

Kyurem is a dual-type Dragon/Ice Legendary Pokémon introduced in Generation V. It has two other forms: White Kyurem and Black Kyurem, which are activated by fusing it with Reshiram or Zekrom, respectively. These forms share many characteristics with Reshiram and Zekrom.

The Kyurem Legendary card features the majestic, bipedal Pokémon in all its glory. It shows Kyurem's gray and blue body and the shorter wing and horn on its damaged right side. The card's design perfectly captures Kyurem's powerful, freezing energy generated from within.

As for its value, the Kyurem Legendary card is sought after by many collectors and players. Its rarity and popularity have led it to fetch high prices in the secondary market. So, if you're a Pokémon Trading Card Game fan and want to add a valuable card to your deck, Kyurem might be your best choice.

8. 2016 Pokemon XY Fates Collide Zygarde EX-Holo #54

  • Price Range: $10 to $50
  • Highest Sale Price: $20
  • Supply: 54
  • Type: Fighting

For under $20, you can get a gem mint 2016 Zygarde EX-Holo #XY151 card.
Source: psacard.com

Zygarde is a fascinating legendary card in the world of Pokémon, and that is reflected in its value as a legendary card. As a dual-type Dragon/Ground Pokémon, Zygarde has three different forms: 10%, 50%, and Complete. Its unique design and backstory have captivated the hearts of many Pokémon fans, making it a highly sought-after card in the Pokémon trading card game.

The Zygarde legendary card has a fascinating history, just like Pokémon. It was first introduced in the XY expansion of the Pokémon trading card game, which coincided with the release of the Pokémon X and Y games. 

The XY expansion featured many new Pokémon, including Zygarde, making it a highly anticipated set among collectors and players alike. The Zygarde card was an instant hit among fans and quickly became a valuable collectible.

The design of the Zygarde legendary card is truly stunning. It features the complete form of Zygarde, a massive green and black serpent-like creature.

The artwork on the card is incredibly detailed, with intricate patterns and textures that make it stand out from other Legendary cards. The card also features the Zygarde Cube, which contains the Zygarde Cores and Zygarde Cells that players can collect in the Pokémon Sun and Moon games.

The Zygarde Legendary Card has captured the hearts of many fans, and it continues to be a highly sought-after item in the Pokémon trading card game. Whether you are a collector or a player, the Zygarde Legendary card is a must-have for any Pokémon enthusiast.

Are Legendary Pokemon Cards a good investment?

The value of Pokemon cards as an asset class is debated, but the Pokémon card market has consistently grown since 2019. Look at Logan Paul's Pikachu Illustrator card that made a Guinness World Record when the influencer paid $5.2 million for the rare promo card in March 2022.

Logan Paul holding the Pikachu Illustrator card he purchased for $5.275 million.
Source: youtube.com 

Some legendary cards like Charizard, Mewtwo, and Rayquaza have seen their values soar. But remember, investing in Pokémon cards isn't a guaranteed win. Do your homework on which cards have the widest appeal and are likely to turn a profit when they sell. Consider a card's condition, rarity, and overall demand to maximize your investment.

Why legendary Pokémon cards are good alternative investments

Legendary Pokemon cards are unique alternative investments that have gained significant interest among investors in recent years. What sets these cards apart from other alternative investments is their cultural significance and emotional connection to many people worldwide.

According to eBay, the total value of all Pokémon cards sold on the platform in 2020 was over $408 million, with sales increasing by 574% compared to the previous year.

The pandemic has also increased interest, with many people spending more time at home and rekindling their love for collecting. As a result, many investors are now viewing legendary Pokémon cards as a long-term investment with the potential for high returns.

How to start investing in legendary Pokémon cards

Investing in legendary Pokémon cards can be a fun and potentially lucrative endeavor, but it's essential to research before making any purchases. To start, you'll need to understand the value and rarity of the cards you're interested in, which can vary greatly depending on factors such as condition, edition, and specific character.

You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the grading system used to assess a card's condition and authenticity, such as the PSA grading system, which ranges from 1 to 10. Additionally, it's crucial to ensure that any cards you purchase are authentic and properly authenticated by a reputable third-party service like PSA or BGS.

These platforms also provide card authentication and grading services, which can ensure the legitimacy, condition, and, most importantly, the value of your cards.

According to a report by Market Stats Ville, The global trading game card market size is expected to grow from $20.1 billion in 2021 to $131.8 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 26.5% from 2022 to 2030.

Investors can acquire, trade, and sell legendary Pokémon cards through various online marketplaces and auction sites like eBay and Heritage Auctions. These platforms offer anything from vintage to modern Pokemon cards, providing secure and legitimate transactions. Investors can also participate in graded card sales and live auctions offering sought-after and rare cards. 

The easiest way to get Pokemon cards in your portfolio is to buy fractional shares of Pokemon cards on platforms like Collectable and Rally. With just a few bucks, they let you invest in collectibles like trading cards, sports memorabilia, and fine wine.

Projecting value growth of legendary Pokémon cards 

Predicting growth in the value of specific legendary Pokémon cards can be challenging, but several factors can help investors make informed decisions. Some key considerations include rarity, condition, and demand for a particular card. Monitoring auction results and market trends can also provide valuable insights into a card's current and future value. 

When investing in this asset class, it’s crucial to research, consult with experts, and acquire the necessary knowledge on how to mitigate risks and make the most of your portfolio.

Finally, grading and authentication can also impact a card's value, so working with reputable grading services and ensuring proper authentication is essential. By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of growing the value of your legendary Pokémon card investments.