The auction for Logan Paul’s Pikachu Illustrator Pokémon card is nearing its conclusion, with bidding set to close tonight at 10 PM EST, followed by an extended bidding period. The sale, hosted by Goldin Auctions, has already generated significant attention within the collectible card game community and beyond.
Paul, who purchased the card for over $5 million in 2021, announced his decision to part with the prized possession on social media, describing it as a “generational run” that included appearances at Guinness World Records, WWE events, and features in national news coverage. He posted a message on Instagram two days ago, expressing his sentiments about letting go of the card.
The Pikachu Illustrator card is exceptionally rare, awarded to winners of a 1998 illustration contest held by CoroCoro Comic in Japan. Unlike cards distributed in booster packs, these were not commercially available, resulting in an estimated print run of only 40 copies. The card Paul is selling is considered one of the highest-graded examples, holding a PSA 10 GEM MINT grade, making it unique among all known copies.
Ken Goldin, of Goldin Auctions, approached Paul with an offer to auction the card, reportedly including a $2.5 million advance check, according to reports. Goldin Auctions is described as a leading marketplace for trading cards and collectibles.
The value of the Pikachu Illustrator card far exceeds that of other highly sought-after Pokémon cards. While 1st Edition Charizard cards in PSA 10 condition have sold for between $500,000 and $600,000, Paul’s Pikachu Illustrator is expected to command roughly ten times that amount. This disparity underscores the card’s unique status within the hobby and its broader appeal as a pop culture artifact.
The auction is being live-streamed on Paul’s YouTube channel, offering collectors and fans a rare opportunity to witness a high-end auction in real time. The sale is expected to further elevate the profile of Pokémon and the trading card game market, attracting increased global interest and investment.
