Celebi cards have long captivated collectors and players alike with their ethereal beauty and powerful abilities. As a mythical Pokémon known for its time-traveling prowess, Celebi holds a special place in the hearts of many, translating into significant value in the collectible card market.
Certain Celebi cards, due to their rarity, artwork, and historical significance, have become highly sought-after treasures. For enthusiasts looking to add a piece of Pokémon history to their collection, or simply curious about which Celebi cards command the most attention, here’s a look at five of the most expensive Celebi cards to date.
5. Shining Celebi #106 – Neo Destiny (Secret Rare)
Kicking off our list is the mesmerizing Shining Celebi from the Neo Destiny set. This card is a true gem, part of the coveted “Shining Pokémon” subset which features Pokémon in their rare, alternate color variations. Its distinct artwork, showcasing Celebi with a unique holographic shimmer, makes it instantly recognizable and highly desirable. As a secret rare, it was already challenging to pull from booster packs, further contributing to its scarcity and value in the secondary market, often fetching a respectable sum.
4. Celebi #3 – Neo Revelation (Holo Rare)
The Celebi from the Neo Revelation set holds a significant spot as one of the earliest holographic appearances of the Time Travel Pokémon. Its classic artwork and status as a highly anticipated legendary from the Johto region made it an instant favorite upon its release. While not a secret rare, its age, coupled with the nostalgic appeal of the Neo sets, has allowed well-preserved copies to retain a considerable value. Collectors often seek this card for its historical importance in the Pokémon TCG.
3. Celebi #145 – Skyridge (Secret Rare)
Among the most visually stunning Celebi cards is the #145 from the Skyridge expansion. This card boasts the unique “Crystal Type” mechanic, allowing it to adapt its type based on the energy attached. Its intricate E-Reader compatible artwork and vibrant full-card holographic effect are truly exceptional, making it a standout. As one of the final sets released by Wizards of the Coast, Skyridge cards, especially secret rares like this Celebi, are known for their extreme scarcity and tend to command premium prices.
2. Celebi ex #117 – Unseen Forces (Secret Rare)
The Celebi ex from the Unseen Forces expansion represents a powerful iteration of the mythical Pokémon in the Pokémon ex era. These “ex” cards were known for their elevated HP and stronger attacks, making them highly playable and desirable. This particular Celebi ex features captivating artwork and its status as a secret rare added to its allure. Its rarity and the enduring popularity of the ex-era cards mean that finding this card in top condition can be quite an investment.
1. Celebi Star #100 – Crystal Guardians (Ultra Rare)
At the pinnacle of expensive Celebi cards is the Celebi Star from the Crystal Guardians set. “Pokémon Star” cards are incredibly rare, featuring shiny Pokémon with a distinctive foil pattern around the Pokémon’s artwork. This Celebi Star, with its striking pose and radiant appeal, is no exception. It was one of the most difficult cards to obtain from its set, and its iconic status as a “Gold Star” Pokémon makes it a prime target for high-end collectors, often reaching impressive figures in the market.
Additional: Celebi V #245 – Fusion Strike (Ultra Rare)
The Celebi V #245 from Fusion Strike might not break the bank, but its artistic merit alone earns it a place among the most cherished Celebi cards. The full-art illustration, masterfully crafted by Teeziro, depicts Celebi soaring through a vibrant, dream-like forest, with a breathtaking blend of colors that perfectly encapsulates the mythical Pokémon’s connection to nature and time.
The sheer detail in the leaves, the subtle glow around Celebi, and the dynamic pose make this card a visual feast. It’s a testament to how far Pokémon card art has evolved, offering collectors not just rarity, but also genuinely captivating pieces of art that resonate deeply with fans. For many, this card represents the pinnacle of Celebi’s aesthetic representation in the Pokémon TCG.
Disclaimer: TCGplayer links on this page use a referral system that helps support the content—at no extra cost to you.
