Sword & Shield promo cards command impressive prices on the secondary market these days. Coming from one of the most prominent modern eras of the Pokémon TCG, the Sword & Shield series ran from early 2020 to early 2023. It brought us some truly memorable and impactful sets, including fan favorites like Evolving Skies, Brilliant Stars, and Crown Zenith.
While these main expansions offered incredible chase cards, the legacy of the Sword & Shield period really shines through a coveted collection of promo cards that have soared in value. These aren’t just your everyday pack pulls; they represent a mix of exclusive event releases, limited-time distributions, and highly sought-after variants. For collectors and investors, knowing which of these promos hold the most weight is key. Here are the ten most valuable Sword & Shield promo cards.
10. Pikachu V – SWSH145
The Pikachu V SWSH145 promo card is a standout from the highly anticipated Celebrations set in the Pokémon TCG’s Sword & Shield series, released in 2021 to commemorate the franchise’s 25th anniversary. This Pikachu V SWSH145 was a guaranteed pull from the Celebrations Ultra-Premium Collection (UPC). This made it a desirable card because the UPC was a premium product with a higher price point, making the cards within it less accessible than those from regular booster packs. Its appeal is further enhanced by its full-art, holographic design, making it visually striking.
9. Special Delivery Charizard – SWSH075
The first of several “Special Delivery” promos on our list, this Charizard (SWSH075) was a limited-time offering from the Pokémon Center. Its unique distribution method, combined with the perennial popularity of Charizard, instantly made it a collector’s item. The “Special Delivery” artwork depicting Charizard flying with a mailbag adds a charming and exclusive touch, solidifying its place as a valuable promo.
8. Snorlax – SWSH068 (Prerelease) (Staff)
Prerelease promos are always a step up in rarity, but the “Staff” versions take it to another level. This Snorlax (SWSH068) with the “Staff” stamp was distributed exclusively to staff members working at Prerelease events for the Sword & Shield base set. Its extremely limited circulation, coupled with the “Staff” designation, makes it a highly sought-after piece for dedicated collectors aiming to complete comprehensive sets.
7. Special Delivery Pikachu – SWSH074
Following closely behind its fiery counterpart is the Special Delivery Pikachu (SWSH074). Also a Pokémon Center exclusive, this card features the iconic mascot in a delightful postal delivery pose. The undeniable appeal of Pikachu, combined with the limited availability of the “Special Delivery” series, ensures this card remains a prime target for collectors and contributes significantly to its high market value.
6. Cramorant – 226/S-P
Hailing from Japan, the Cramorant 226/S-P promo is a testament to the value found in certain regional exclusives. This card was awarded to winners and participants in specific Japanese tournaments, making its acquisition outside of Japan particularly challenging. Its limited distribution and the competitive nature of its origins contribute to its scarcity and, consequently, its elevated price tag.
5. Lugia – SWSH069 (Prerelease) (Staff)
Another “Staff” Prerelease promo makes a strong appearance, this time featuring the legendary Lugia (SWSH069). Just like the Snorlax, this card was given only to staff at Prerelease events for the Sword & Shield base set. Lugia’s consistent popularity and the extreme rarity of “Staff” stamped cards ensure that this particular promo commands a premium price from collectors looking for truly unique pieces of TCG history.
4. Special Delivery Bidoof – SWSH177
Perhaps the most surprising entry on this list for some, the Special Delivery Bidoof (SWSH177) has surged in value to become one of the most desirable Sword & Shield promos. This card, also a Pokémon Center exclusive, capitalized on the internet’s affection for the “peppy” Pokémon, Bidoof. Its charm, combined with the limited “Special Delivery” distribution, created a perfect storm for its explosive market appreciation. It’s a fantastic example of how unexpected cards can become highly valuable due to a unique blend of factors.
3. Champions Festival – SWSH296 (World Championships 2022)
The Champions Festival promo (SWSH296) from the 2022 World Championships in London stands as a pinnacle of event-exclusive rarity. These cards were typically distributed only to attendees or participants of the prestigious World Championships, making them incredibly scarce for the wider collecting community. The significance of the event, coupled with the card’s limited release, cements its status as a highly prized collectible.
2. Charizard – SWSH066 (Prerelease) (Staff)
It’s no surprise to see Charizard appear again, but this time in its most exclusive Sword & Shield promo form: the SWSH066 Prerelease “Staff” version. As one of the most iconic and beloved Pokémon, a “Staff” stamped Charizard from the very first Sword & Shield Prerelease event is an absolute gem for collectors. Its extreme rarity due to limited staff distribution, combined with Charizard’s enduring appeal, makes it an exceptionally valuable card, often fetching eye-watering prices.
1. Pikachu – 227/S-P
Topping our list as the most valuable Sword & Shield promo card is the Pikachu 227/S-P from Japan. This highly sought-after card originated from a unique collaboration between Japan Post and the Pokémon Company in 2021. As part of a limited-edition set of Pokémon stamps, this specific Pikachu promo was included alongside eight distinct stamps featuring beloved Pokémon. This distinctive blend of philately and Pokémon collecting created a truly unique crossover item.
The card’s limited distribution within this special postal service offering, combined with the immense popularity of Pikachu and its Japanese exclusivity, has made it an exceptionally rare and highly coveted piece for both Pokémon TCG enthusiasts and stamp collectors alike.
Disclaimer: eBay links on this page use a referral system that helps support the content—at no extra cost to you.
