Japanese Pokémon Cards 151 masterfully leveraged nostalgia by exclusively featuring the original 151 Pokémon from Generation I. This highly sought-after set presents the Kanto Pokédex in perfect numerical order, from Bulbasaur to Mew. Beyond the initial 151, it includes 14 Trainer cards and 45 Secret Rare cards, notably featuring stunning Alternate Art versions of the starter Pokémon and their evolutions.
Collectors can also find two unique foil patterns on Common, Uncommon, and Rare cards: a Poké Ball pattern and the rarer Master Ball pattern. Widely considered the top Pokémon set of 2023, both in Japanese and English, “Pokémon Card 151” is a strong contender for the best set in the entire Scarlet & Violet Series due to its immense collectibility.
10. Eevee 133/165 (Master Ball Foil)
While non-foil versions of Eevee are inexpensive, the Master Ball foil reverse-holo variant is exceptionally rare and highly sought after. The Pokémon Company International introduced a unique Master Ball pattern on a very small fraction of reverse-holo cards in 151, making them as scarce as Secret Rares. Fans typically report finding only one Master Ball foil per booster box. This scarcity drives the value of Master Ball Eevee, making it a prized pull among collectors despite the popularity of its evolutions.
9. Zapdos ex 204/165
Zapdos ex 204/165 serves as the de facto Alternate Art card for all three Legendary Birds in the 151 set. Unlike Articuno and Moltres, Zapdos received an ex card and an Alternate Art. Its illustration features a rich background, a significant departure from the often stylized or placeless artwork seen in recent high-value Pokémon cards. This strong sense of place and detailed art contribute to its desirability and value.
8. Erika’s Invitation 206/165
Erika’s Invitation 206/165 showcases Erika, one of the original female Gym Leaders. This card marks Cona Nitanda’s debut as a Pokémon card illustrator, presenting Erika in an almost impressionistic, hazy style that evokes nostalgia. This breathtaking artwork briefly made it the most coveted chase card in the 151 set upon its release. Erika’s only other Full Art card, Erika’s Hospitality, remains one of the most valuable Full Art Supporter cards in English.
7. Magikarp 129/165 (Master Ball Foil)
Magikarp 129/165 (Master Ball Foil) taps into the surprising and enduring popularity of Magikarp. Despite its seemingly ineffective nature, Magikarp’s charm has only grown since the 90s. While not as visually dynamic as some other Magikarp cards, the irony of a Master Ball pattern adorning this seemingly weak Pokémon resonates with collectors. This unique combination makes it a highly desirable and thematic card within the set.
6. Mewtwo 150/165 (Master Ball Foil)
Mewtwo 150/165 (Master Ball Foil) is perfectly suited for the Master Ball treatment, given its status as a legendary Pokémon notoriously difficult to catch in the games. AKIRA EGAWA’s dramatic illustration expertly captures Mewtwo’s menacing power, solidifying its role as an iconic antagonist. This combination of fitting artwork and the rare Master Ball foil makes it a highly sought-after card.
5. Gengar 094/165 (Master Ball Foil)
Gengar 094/165 (Master Ball Foil) features the eerie Shadow Pokémon, a perfect subject for illustrator Tomokazu Komiya’s unique, often bizarre style. This marks Komiya’s first Gengar card, making it a significant addition for fans of his distinctive work. Gengar’s immense popularity within the franchise further boosts the card’s demand and value. The combination of a beloved Pokémon and a fitting artist makes this a highly desirable pull.
4. Pikachu 025/165 (Master Ball Foil)
Pikachu 025/165 (Master Ball Foil) stands out as one of the most sought-after and valuable cards in the entire set. Although Pikachu is typically a Common card, the extremely limited Master Ball foil versions elevate its status significantly. The English version of 151 does not include this exclusive Master Ball foil pattern, making this Japanese Pikachu a unique collector’s item. Its high price reflects Pikachu’s unparalleled iconic status and the allure of owning the rarest version of the franchise mascot.
3. Blastoise ex 202/165
Blastoise ex 202/165 is a highly desirable card, forming part of the sought-after connected art set for the Gen I starters. Illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita, the original artist for Base Set Squirtle, this card along with its evolution line showcases the evolution of Pokémon card art over 25 years.
Arita’s masterful use of textures and shades of blue to depict water depth throughout the Squirtle evolution chain is simply stunning. Collectors often prioritize finding these three cards as a core reason to open 151 packs.
2. Mew ex 205/165
Mew ex 205/165 is considered the strongest Pokémon card from the 151 set, retaining Mew’s historical ability to copy an opponent’s Active Pokémon’s attack. Natsumi Yoshida’s illustration is a delightful blend of pink hues, from Mew itself to the sunset and surrounding elements. This vibrant artwork creates a cozy and playful atmosphere that perfectly complements Mew’s carefree nature. The combination of competitive utility and charming art makes this a top-tier card.
1. Charizard ex 201/165
Charizard ex 201/165 is the ultimate chase card in both Japanese and English versions of 151, excluding the Master Ball foils. While not competitively dominant like its Obsidian Flames counterpart, this Charizard ex features a magnificent, soaring illustration by miki kudo.
This artwork culminates a three-part story depicted across the Charmander (168) and Charmeleon (169) cards. Many collectors specifically target these three cards, making Charizard ex the most coveted pull in the set.
This article should help you understand the most valuable cards in Japan’s highly sought-after Pokémon Card 151 set. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, these insights can guide your collecting journey.
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