Logan Paul’s Pokémon Card Sells for a Record-Breaking $16.492 Million
Five years ago, Logan Paul made headlines when he purchased a Pokémon card for $5.275 million. Now, the influencer and WWE superstar has once again stunned the collecting world, selling that same card for an astonishing $16.492 million – plus a custom diamond-encrusted necklace! This sale isn’t just a win for Paul; it’s a monumental moment in the history of trading card auctions.
The Rarity of the Pikachu Illustrator Card
The card at the center of this frenzy is a Pikachu Illustrator card, a remarkably rare piece of Pokémon history. Only 39 of these cards were ever created in the late 1990s as prizes for winners of an illustration competition. Its scarcity, combined with the enduring popularity of Pokémon, has driven its value to unprecedented heights. You can learn more about the history of Pokémon at the official Pokémon website.
A Thrilling Auction Process
The auction, hosted by Goldin, lasted an impressive 42 days, culminating in a nail-biting final few hours of extended bidding on Monday. Paul, broadcasting live on YouTube, remarked that they “may have tired someone out” as the bids continued to climb. The final price exceeded expectations, earning Paul over $8 million in profit after auction fees – a result he described as “absolutely insane.”
Adding to the allure, the card was sold encased within a custom necklace worn by Paul at WrestleMania 38, and he promised to personally deliver it to the winning bidder. This unique presentation undoubtedly contributed to the heightened interest and final sale price.
Pokémon’s Dominance in the Collectibles Market
This record-breaking sale underscores the incredible growth of the Pokémon franchise. Pokémon is now the world’s highest-grossing media franchise, even surpassing giants like Disney and Star Wars. According to Ken Goldin, founder and CEO of Goldin, Pokémon cards have significantly outperformed other collectibles, increasing in value by 3,000% over the past 20 years – outpacing even the S&P stock market.
The “Holy Grail” of Pokémon Cards
The Pikachu Illustrator card is widely considered the “holy grail” of all Pokémon cards. Paul’s card was particularly coveted because it received a perfect Grade 10 rating from PSA, the leading authentication agency. This flawless condition makes it virtually unique, and the only Illustrator card to achieve this prestigious grade. PSA provides detailed information on card grading at their official website.
A History of Collecting
Paul has a well-documented passion for collecting rare and valuable items, including NFTs. He initially acquired this Grade 10 Pikachu Illustrator card in July 2021 by trading a PSA Grade 9 Pikachu Illustrator card (valued at $1.275 million) and $4 million in cash. His willingness to invest heavily in collectibles has cemented his reputation as a serious player in the market.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Paul bid farewell to the card, stating, “goodbye my friend. What a privilege it’s been to be the owner of the greatest collectible in the world.”
This sale confirms the enduring appeal of Pokémon and the incredible value of rare trading cards. It’s a testament to the passion of collectors and the power of nostalgia.
