Pikachu isn’t just the mascot of the Pokémon franchise, it’s the heartbeat of the TCG. Across promos, ultra rares, Gold Stars, and modern SIRs, Pikachu cards have built one of the most passionate collector followings in the hobby. From adorable poncho outfits to legendary EX-era rarities, these cards represent the absolute peak of Pikachu collecting.
Here are the 13 most expensive Pikachu cards, complete with richer context and collector insight.
13. Mega Tokyo's Pikachu 98 — $170 (XY Promos)
Mega Tokyo’s Pikachu captures the charm and personality of Pokémon Center exclusives in the best way possible. Released during the peak of Pokémon Center mania, this card instantly became a mascot for Tokyo collectors. The artwork is cute, energetic, and filled with the warm, friendly vibe associated with Japan’s flagship store. Its limited release and tourist-driven popularity make it a staple for serious Pikachu collectors, especially those building a Japan-exclusive binder.
12. Pikachu ex (Hyper Rare) — $185 (Surging Sparks)
This Hyper Rare Pikachu ex explodes with gold foil, electric motion effects, and a heroic stance that makes Pikachu feel truly powerful. It’s part of the new wave of Scarlet & Violet ex cards that elevated Pikachu from mascot to full-on competitive threat. The shimmering details, bold style, and modern holo layering make it one of the flashiest Pikachu cards ever printed. Its rising value reflects that collectors see this as the next big modern Pikachu classic.
11. Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat — $190 (Scarlet & Violet Promo)
The moment this promo dropped, it became a viral sensation. Pikachu wearing a stylish grey felt hat? That’s instant meme material, and instant collector gold. The crossover design made it hugely popular outside the usual TCG sphere, pulling in casual fans, long-time collectors, and even fashion enthusiasts. Limited availability pushed demand through the roof, turning this cute and classy promo into one of the biggest modern Pikachu hits.
10. Pikachu V — $220 (Prize Pack Series)
Prize Pack cards are notoriously difficult to obtain, and Pikachu V sits proudly at the top of the rarity ladder. Given only to Pokémon League participants, supply remained incredibly tight, and Pikachu’s popularity did the rest. The bold full-art design gives Pikachu a confident, heroic presence that makes this card feel like a mini-grail of the Sword & Shield era. Because so few players ever pulled one, it consistently rises in value as collectors hunt down the missing promo for their binders.
9. Poncho-Wearing Pikachu 203 — $250 (XY Promos)
Poncho Pikachu cards are some of the most beloved promos in TCG history, and this Rayquaza-themed edition is one of the coolest. Pikachu wearing the costume of a legendary dragon hits that perfect mix of adorable and epic. These promos were released in limited quantities, and their cosplay theme created a massive, dedicated following. With Poncho Pikachu collecting becoming a category all on its own, this Rayquaza costume version remains a fan favourite and essential pickup.
8. Poncho-Wearing Pikachu — $270 (Sun & Moon Promos)
Nothing embodies wholesome Pokémon charm quite like Pikachu dressed in Alolan attire. This promo delivers a burst of tropical colour and personality, making it a standout piece from the Sun & Moon era. Collectors love how it radiates fun, warmth, and island vibes, a completely different tone from most chase cards. As the Poncho Pikachu line gains legendary status in the collecting world, this Alolan special only becomes more coveted.
7. Pikachu (Ivy Misprint) — $275 (WotC Promo #1)
One of the earliest and most famous misprints in Pokémon TCG history, the Ivy Misprint Pikachu is a true relic of the WotC era. Instead of the intended promo text layout, early copies printed incorrectly, instantly turning them into collector curiosities. Its nostalgic artwork and historical significance make it a fascinating piece of early Pokémon lore. For many collectors, owning this card feels like owning a small piece of the TCG’s accidental history.
6. Pikachu (Red Cheeks) — $320 (Base Set First Edition)
This beloved Base Set variant is an error that became iconic. Early First Edition Pikachu cards printed with bright red cheeks instead of the corrected yellow, giving the card a distinct look that collectors immediately gravitated toward. Its WotC charm, early print status, and error legacy make it a triple threat in terms of desirability. It’s one of the most famous Pikachu variations ever created, a true vintage treasure.
5. Pikachu 227 — $350 (Sword & Shield Promos)
This SWSH promo features bold artwork, dynamic motion, and a modern full-art feel that instantly stood out from its promo peers. Released during the TCG boom, demand surged from both long-time Pikachu fans and new collectors entering the hobby. Its strong colours and premium composition make it a favourite for graded collectors. As one of the standout promos of its era, this Pikachu continues to climb the value ladder.
4. Pikachu ex (Special Illustration Rare) — $490 (Surging Sparks)
Easily one of the best Pikachu illustrations in the entire SV era, this SIR Pikachu ex delivers electrifying personality and incredible visual energy. The dynamic pose, swirling effects, and colourful environment make it feel alive, almost animated. Collectors love the premium texture and layered depth, which push it far above typical full-arts. Its status as the top Pikachu chase of Surging Sparks ensures its long-term grail status.
3. Pikachu Star — $1,000 (Holon Phantoms)
Gold Star Pikachu is EX-era royalty. With ultra-low pull rates and a shiny black colour scheme that redefined Pikachu rarity, this card is a cornerstone of high-end collecting. The dramatic cosmic backdrop gives it an otherworldly presence, and its Gold Star status guarantees prestige. Many collectors consider this the most iconic EX-era Pikachu ever printed, and the price reflects it.
2. Poncho-Wearing Pikachu 208 — $1,200 (XY Promos)
This Mega Charizard X poncho version is a fan-favourite crossover between one of the cutest and one of the coolest Pokémon of all time. The artwork exudes swagger and personality, and the costume design is packed with detail. Released only in Japan, its limited print makes it incredibly hard to find, especially in clean condition. It’s one of the top must-haves for Pikachu promo collectors, and demand has remained fierce since release.
1. Poncho-Wearing Pikachu 231 — $12,500.00 (XY Promos)
The holy grail of Pikachu collecting. Pikachu dressed as Mega Charizard Y combines adorable charm, legendary crossover energy, and ultra-rare promo scarcity. This card is the crown jewel of the Poncho Pikachu line and one of the most expensive Pokémon promos ever created. With impeccable artwork and extremely limited availability, it has achieved near-mythical status among collectors. Few Pikachu cards command this level of prestige, and even fewer reach these prices.
Conclusion
From cosplay-themed promos to Gold Star legends and modern SIR blasts, these 13 Pikachu masterpieces represent the absolute peak of Pikachu collecting. Each card blends rarity, personality, history, and pure charm, and together they create one of the strongest character-based chase lineups in the entire TCG. Whether you’re just starting a Pikachu binder or hunting high-end grails, these cards show why Pikachu remains the most collectible mascot in the world.
Ready to spark your own Pikachu hunt? Beam Card Shop has booster boxes, ETBs, booster bundles and packs that can bring you one step closer to your next electric grail.