The electric roar of Raikou, the legendary Pokémon, reverberates throughout the Pokémon trading card game (TCG) community. Its powerful presence, particularly in its Lv.42 Holo form from the 2007 Japanese Shining Darkness set, continues to captivate collectors and players alike. This article will explore the various facets of this highly sought-after card, delving into its rarity, market value, condition grading, and its place within the broader context of Raikou cards and the Pokémon TCG landscape.
The eBay Listing and its Significance:
Our journey begins with a specific listing: a Raikou Holo Lv.42 from the 2007 Japanese Shining Darkness 1st Edition, graded PSA 7, listed on eBay for $36.00 on September 15, 2022. While this price point might seem surprisingly low for a card of this caliber, it highlights the dynamic nature of the Pokémon TCG market. Factors such as condition, grading, and market demand significantly influence the final sale price. A PSA 7 grade indicates that the card exhibits some minor imperfections, impacting its value compared to a higher-graded copy (e.g., PSA 8 or PSA 9). The relatively low price could also be attributed to the time of listing or the seller's pricing strategy. Nonetheless, this listing serves as a valuable data point in understanding the current market for this specific Raikou card.
Understanding the Raikou Lv.42 (16/132):
The Raikou Lv.42 (16/132) card, originating from the Japanese Shining Darkness set, holds a unique position within the Raikou card family. The "Lv.42" designation refers to Raikou's level within the game's mechanics, reflecting its power and stats. The "16/132" indicates its position within the set's card numbering. The holofoil treatment further enhances its visual appeal, adding to its collector value. The Shining Darkness set itself is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and inclusion of powerful and popular Pokémon. The 1st Edition stamp further increases the card's value, confirming its place among the first print run of the set. This adds a layer of exclusivity that appeals to seasoned collectors seeking pristine, early-release versions of coveted cards.
Comparing with Other Raikou Cards:
To fully appreciate the Raikou Lv.42 Holo's significance, we must consider it in the context of other Raikou cards. The sheer number of Raikou cards throughout various Pokémon TCG sets illustrates the enduring popularity of this legendary electric Pokémon. Comparing its value to other variations sheds light on the specific factors that contribute to the Lv.42 Holo's desirability:
* Raikou #16 Prices: This refers to the general market value of Raikou cards across different sets, bearing the number #16. The Lv.42 Holo's price will vary depending on set, condition, and edition.
* Raikou [Cracked Ice] #16 Prices: This specifically refers to the "Cracked Ice" version of Raikou, a unique printing variation with a distinctive aesthetic. Comparing prices with the Lv.42 Holo reveals the influence of printing variations on value.
current url:https://ohlzux.d938y.com/all/raikou-lv-42-holo-54565