The Japanese Pokémon VS expansion, released in July 2001, holds a special place in the TCG’s history. Issued exclusively in Japan as six 30-card half decks, the set never received an international release, making it one of the most elusive collections for non-Japanese players.
Unlike standard expansions, each card pairs a Pokémon with a specific Gym Leader, Elite Four member, or Team Rocket villain, creating some of the most character-driven artwork in the franchise. This focus on trainer-Pokémon bonds gave the cards a distinct identity that set them apart from previous Neo-era releases. What follows are the twenty most desirable Pokémon VS cards in gem-mint condition.
20. Jasmine’s Jolteon #30
Jasmine’s Jolteon pairs a Johto Gym Leader with one of the most popular Eeveelutions, a natural fit for her Electric specialty. The artwork emphasizes Jolteon’s speed and power, framed beautifully by the VS card layout. Eeveelution collectors chase this one heavily, which drives competition for gem-mint examples. With edges prone to whitening, PSA 10 copies are consistently in short supply.
19. Sabrina’s Espeon #56
Sabrina linking with Espeon connects two of the franchise’s most iconic Psychic figures. The design highlights Espeon’s mystique while reflecting Sabrina’s sharp, composed style. It’s particularly appealing to collectors who chase both Johto Pokémon and Kanto trainers. Low gem-mint populations make this one of the tougher Psychic cards from VS to secure.
18. Jasmine’s Steelix #32
Steelix reinforces Jasmine’s identity as a Steel-type leader, making this pairing one of the most thematic in the set. The artwork captures Steelix’s sheer size and durability, standing apart from its Neo-era counterparts. Collectors admire the dual appeal of a popular Pokémon tied to a recognizable trainer. Centering issues often hold this card back from PSA 10, raising its prestige.
17. Clair’s Blastoise #46
Clair’s Blastoise is an unusual crossover—Clair is a Dragon specialist, yet here she’s tied to a Kanto starter. That twist makes this card one of the more memorable surprises in the VS lineup. Blastoise collectors view it as a hidden gem, distinct from the standard depictions. PSA 10 copies are chased for their unique blend of nostalgia and rarity.
16. Karen’s Flareon #89
Karen’s Flareon showcases an interesting contrast between her dark, stoic persona and Flareon’s bright energy. The card’s vibrant artwork gives it crossover appeal between Eeveelution collectors and Elite Four enthusiasts. Flareon’s enduring popularity ensures strong demand across the hobby. With gem-mint examples scarce, this card frequently sparks bidding wars.
15. Will’s Espeon #76
Will and Espeon make a perfect thematic match, both representing precision and Psychic power. The artwork emphasizes Espeon’s sleek design, setting it apart from other Espeon cards of the era. It’s a crossover hit with both trainer-focused and Eeveelution-focused collections. With fewer gem-mint examples in circulation, demand remains strong.
14. Rocket’s Suicune #96
Rocket’s Suicune presents a villainous twist on one of Johto’s most majestic legendaries. The darker tones contrast heavily with Suicune’s usual elegant depictions, making this card unique among its printings. Collectors who focus on Legendary Beasts often view it as a centerpiece. In PSA 10, it rarely lingers long before being claimed.
13. Rocket’s Entei #95
Rocket’s Entei is one of the boldest reinterpretations in the set. Normally portrayed as noble and heroic, Entei here looks feral and untamed under Rocket’s influence. This striking contrast makes it a standout target for legendary collectors. Pristine copies are exceedingly difficult to source.
12. Rocket’s Raikou #94
Rocket’s Raikou delivers a darker take on the Legendary Beasts, giving the Pokémon a more aggressive look than usual. This villainous reimagining sets it apart from other Raikou cards in the TCG. Legendary collectors and Rocket fans alike chase it heavily. Its PSA 10 population remains small, fueling its reputation.
11. Bruno’s Steelix #84
Bruno’s Steelix captures the Elite Four’s raw, physical power. The art shows Steelix as towering and unyielding, perfectly fitting Bruno’s battle philosophy. Collectors respect it for both trainer association and Steelix’s popularity. Condition sensitivity ensures that gem-mint copies are consistently in demand.
10. Rocket’s Tyranitar #142
Tyranitar’s destructive power pairs perfectly with Team Rocket’s villainous theme. The card’s artwork gives the Pokémon a menacing aura, cementing it as one of the most intimidating entries in VS. Tyranitar collectors consider it essential, which keeps competition high. PSA 10 examples are especially scarce due to frequent print flaws.
9. Rocket’s Wobbuffet #93
Rocket’s Wobbuffet stands out for its playful, almost comical design. Unlike most of the darker Rocket cards, this one leans into Wobbuffet’s quirky personality. Collectors enjoy it as a break from the otherwise intense lineup. Its surfaces scratch easily, making PSA 10s a challenge to track down.
8. Clair’s Dragonite #49
As Clair’s signature Pokémon, Dragonite delivers one of the defining trainer-Pokémon pairings in the entire set. The artwork portrays Dragonite as both powerful and approachable, mirroring its dual role as a fearsome battler and fan favorite. Collectors consistently rank this card among the must-haves from VS. Limited PSA 10 populations keep it highly competitive.
7. Bugsy’s Scizor #13
Bugsy’s Scizor highlights the strength and sleek design of one of Johto’s most popular Bug-types. The metallic red coloring pops against the VS card format, making it visually striking. Scizor’s competitive relevance during the Neo era adds another layer of appeal. With PSA 10 copies limited, it remains one of the toughest Gym Leader cards to secure.
6. Karen’s Tyranitar #90
Karen’s Tyranitar is among the set’s most recognizable and sought-after cards. The artwork balances menace with loyalty, capturing the synergy between Pokémon and trainer. Tyranitar collectors consider it one of the cornerstones of their collection. With very low PSA 10 availability, it consistently ranks near the top of the VS chase list.
5. Morty’s Murkrow #25
Morty’s Murkrow is one of the darker, moodier designs in the set. The art reflects Murkrow’s cunning nature while tying perfectly to Morty’s ghostly theme. Though Murkrow isn’t a powerhouse Pokémon, this card has niche collector value for fans of Johto’s atmosphere. Its foil sensitivity makes pristine copies particularly elusive.
4. Morty’s Gengar #21
Morty’s Gengar is a centerpiece of the Ghost-type cards in VS. The moody artwork captures Gengar’s mischievous yet eerie energy, making it a favorite among spooky Pokémon enthusiasts. Compared to Base Set and Neo Gengar, this version feels darker and more atmospheric. Gem-mint copies are chased for their strong visual presence and rarity.
3. Lance’s Gyarados #98
Lance’s Gyarados embodies raw power and nostalgia, reflecting both his role in the games and Gyarados’ iconic status. The artwork emphasizes its fierce, battle-ready nature. Collectors prize this crossover of two longtime fan favorites. PSA 10 examples remain in steady demand due to both Pokémon and trainer popularity.
2. Lance’s Dragonite #100
Lance’s Dragonite is a centerpiece of the Pokémon VS collection. The artwork blends Dragonite’s strength with its gentle nature, mirroring its role in the video games. Collectors consider it one of the ultimate trainer-Pokémon pairings in the TCG. PSA 10 examples rarely surface, which amplifies demand.
1. Lance’s Charizard #97
Lance’s Charizard is widely recognized as the crown jewel of the VS expansion. The fiery artwork paired with the Champion’s prestige makes it one of the most iconic cards of the Neo era. Charizard collectors worldwide pursue it, regardless of region. In PSA 10, it represents the pinnacle of rarity, nostalgia, and desirability from this legendary set.
Pokémon VS remains a snapshot of a moment in time when the TCG leaned heavily into its video game roots. With every card tied to a familiar trainer, the set feels personal and story-driven in a way few expansions have ever matched. High-grade examples continue to attract fierce competition, especially among collectors chasing iconic trainer-Pokémon pairings.
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