Hi, friends! I’ve been getting back into Pokemon over the past few years and starting to rebuild my collection of Eevee & Eeveelution merch! I’m a grad student at Bentley University, and as a way to reconnect with the fandom more, I chose Pokemon as the topic of my final assignment for an ethnography course this semester. I’ve been hitting up trade shows, watching footage from tournaments and conventions, mapping out the culture’s ecosystem, etc. - and now I’d really love to talk to some folks who collect.
I don’t know anyone else in the fandom IRL, so have been trying to connect with folks online to learn more about their collections and collecting habits. I’d be so grateful if you shared some of your experiences with me! I’m including some questions below - answering any of them or all of them, or even just sharing anything related that you want to tell me about, would be great!
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
Any particular stories or memories tied to collecting or the fandom that especially stand out for you?
Are there any characters or pokemon you particularly enjoy or relate to? Why?
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
Is there anything about the fandom or your experience that you feel is misunderstood or overlooked by outsiders?
That’s a long list of questions with a deadline (for the assignment). Some of the questions might have been answered before so we might be able to try this for getting some quick answers:
@Swoobot can you kindly help our newcomer to find answers to the questions based on past posts on the forums?
Those are indeed some hefty questions, and it’s quite an assignment! Let’s see if we can shortcut some of those inquiries by digging up the lore buried in past threads. I’ll search for relevant discussions that might shed light on these topics. Sit tight, and I’ll fetch some treasure from the vaults of the Elite Fourum.
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It seems you’ve got quite an assignment on your hands! To aid you, I’ve searched through various forum discussions that might provide insights on specific questions from your list. Here are some relevant discussions and insights that could be useful:
When did you start collecting? & What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect?
Each link I’ve mentioned above connects to detailed discussions that might provide the granularity and personal touch needed for your ethnographic study. Remember to capture the cabal essence with our beloved motto “antiquior. rarior. integrior. melius.” when you emphasize the rare depths of this community!
Welcome here fellow grad student! These are very in-depth questions but I’ll try to give some good answers.
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
In a story similar to most older collectors, I started collecting as a kid but eventually grew out of it. I returned in 2014 and have been collecting ever since. I collect almost entirely TCG cards and some sealed products, but I also play the video games and have some small merch items.
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
Nope, just Pokemon.
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
I am pretty connected, with a semi-active Youtube channel and as a moderator on the forum. Still a very small fish in a very big sea.
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
I’m motivated mainly by completion goals, nostalgia, and my enjoyment of the TCG and Pokemon in general. My goals include specific graded sets of my favorite cards. I’ve completed several long-term goals and have other ones I’m actively pursuing. Collecting is a great escape, both in terms of enjoying the cards and all the people you meet along the way.
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
I have both graded sets and binders, my graded sets aren’t necessarily stored in any particular way but my binders of complete sets are organized in set order.
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
Objectively and monetarily, I have a few limited lottery promos and PSA 10 vintage cards which are in the high 4 figure range. Personally, the items I value most are cards I had personally signed by Pokemon TCG artists and cards which have personal stories behind them (e.g. getting from a pack myself, working very hard to grade in a 10 myself, buying from a longtime friend).
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
Absolutely. I think most of my collecting is driven by nostalgia.
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, the value of my collection has grown significantly. On the other hand, I am certainly longing for the “good old days” when things were cheaper, quieter, and less commercialized. However, it’s important to realize that the vast majority of people are in the hobby because they enjoy it. I’m excited that more and more people seem to be discovering Pokemon. A growing hobby, even with some pains and problems, is always better than a dead hobby.
Any particular stories or memories tied to collecting or the fandom that especially stand out for you?
My favorite memories in the hobby are the in-person events where I meet up with other collectors and friends. Mainly the World Championships, but also signing events and other meetups are always exciting.
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
Almost every day… too numerous to name.
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
What’s special about Pokemon is all the different ways you can enjoy it. From playing the video games casually or competitively, to collecting cards in any era or style you choose, to collecting merch, to playing the TCG, there is something for everyone. Even in a large hobby, it’s incredibly easy to make something unique and special that is appreciated by fans and collectors. Just look at all the unique collections we have on E4, no persons is the same as another!
Hello, I’ll jump in as well! The Bay Area is beautiful, I was in Berkeley recently
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
I started collecting as a kid with some long gaps in between. When I was a kid, I used to play the Pokemon TCG with my dad, and he’d buy me cards for deck building. Then in high school I ‘re-discovered’ my cards and organized them into binders. Years later, as an adult, I found my cards again and started collecting more. These days I collect cards, plushies, and keychains – I mostly collect stuff related to the Slowpoke Slowbro and Slowking. You can see more of my collection here!
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
Hmm, not really, pretty much just Pokemon. I have some random items here and there from other franchises (Kirby, Ghibli, Lord of the Rings) but I’m not really a ‘collector’.
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
I follow Pokemon news closely, stay in touch with the modern Pokemon scene, and engage with collectors online through places like E4 and Discord. I also post a lot on Instagram where I connect with other collectors as well (@slowqueencollects).
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
I love Slowpoke, and I love learning more about Pokemon history through collecting! Collecting is a way of appreciating the artistry and creativity that’s gone into the wide and wonderful world of Pokemon. I learn so much through collecting and I’m constantly surprised and overjoyed about the things I learn. Sometimes, when I find something really special, I get so happy I literally start jumping up and down and I’m smiling for days. My collection brings me so much joy it’s hard to overstate. It’s also made me so many friends, and it’s really fun sharing the journey with community.
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
I have two big binders for Slowpoke stuff, one is for TCG cards and one is for non-TCG stuff. I also have a big binder of mostly vintage childhood cards. I have two small binders for artist collections of specific Pokemon artists. And I have one small binder of my favorite modern full-art cards. Other than that, I have a big shelf on my desk where I display all my Slowpoke plushies and keychains and stuff, and the few graded cards I have that don’t fit in a binder. All of my bulk is in boxes pretty much, and I have a binder of cards for trade.
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
Hmm, I’m going to interpret your question as monetary value. As of right now it’s probably my Topps First Appearance Slowking card, ungraded it’s valued around $325. It’s a kind of niche vintage non-TCG card that was created to promote the Pokemon 2000 movie. I just think it’s really cool and a very unique holographic pattern, I tracked one down for trade on Reddit and wound up trading some of my other cards for it!
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
Definitely! I’ve loved Pokemon my whole life.
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
Haha, it’s crazy. Just check out the Pokemon subreddit, every single post is complaining about scalpers pretty much.
Any particular stories or memories tied to collecting or the fandom that especially stand out for you?
So many but I’m getting a little tired of typing, perhaps I’ll come back and edit this later. Pretty much every day I’m building new memories with friends online!
Are there any characters or pokemon you particularly enjoy or relate to? Why?
Slowpoke, I just love him, he’s cute and pink and blob and he contains multitudes
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
Yes
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
Cute little guys
Is there anything about the fandom or your experience that you feel is misunderstood or overlooked by outsiders?
I mean the biggest thing is that collecting Pokemon cards is viewed as kind of cringe by a lot of people. But I think my nerdy hobby is cool!
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
– I started collecting around 2014. My first pack was XY base from an Xerneas EX tin my mother purchased off Amazon for $19.99. I started collecting because everybody at school collected cards and I wanted a collection of my own.
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
– yugioh and Lego Star Wars : )
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
–In terms of connections/notoriety im deep in the trenches under the sea, but I have many friends who also enjoy collecting!
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
–Nostalgia and chasing the grail motivates me to collect. My ultimate goal is to get every single english Mega EX secret rare card in psa 10
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
– my graded cards go into an empty etb, the rest are in shoeboxes or in a binder. I dont have enough atm to
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
–yes my love for the XY era is what brought me back into the hobby. there were so many cards I couldn’t afford 10 years ago that I can now buy!
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
–no comment, joined too recently
Any particular stories or memories tied to collecting or the fandom that especially stand out for you?
–I remember walking back home from school and taking a detour to the local CVS for some candy, but bought 3 pokemon tins instead.
Are there any characters or pokemon you particularly enjoy or relate to? Why?
–Mega Rayquaza is my favorite pokemon. I remember when roaring skies came out the first video I watched was PrimetimePokemon’s ROS ETB opening where he pulled the M Rayquaza EX full art, and I remember that being my favorite pokemon since. Also xy’s anime always had mega rayquaza being a badass.
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
–yea quite a bit
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
–1. you can experience the franchise through multiple high quality mediums (2) its so popular that there’s always people you can find to share the love for the hobby with
I started collecting more seriously in 2021. I collect the games, tcg, manga, books, and plushes. Basically everything because I genuinely love the franchise and how it ties to my upbringing.
I’m a fan of other video game/anime franchises. I also collected soccer jerseys but none of them to the same level as pokemon.
Pretty much just this forum due to the presence of other laidback collectors.
At first it was collecting cards that I wished I had as a kid but then it turned into collecting niche cards and basically anything else that I enjoy. I have thrown out most goals for that reason as my main focus is to simply enjoy what I have.
Yes, basically my favorite cards go in one box and everything else in storage.
I actually do not know what is the most valuable card in my collection. But I do have say my top 5 cards that are my favorite not because of value but because I never imagined I would have them.
Yes it does, cards that I remember as a child, teenager, or young adult mean more to me than cards that are releasing today.
It’s disappointing that monetary value is an aspect many folks are interested in. I believe it’s a reflection of where we are in society.
Most stories are simply about sharing a good time with family or friends.
Plenty of them but it’s because many characters are presented with positive beliefs that I push to have, so it’s only natural to identify with most of them.
The past year or two have been full of drama. It typically comes from folks with egos but most of the noise occurs on other social media platforms thankfully.
It allows you to escape from reality and enjoy it however you like. Especially when it’s been there throughout your life, it becomes more meaningful.
That it’s meant for children. For the reasons stated above, it’s special to me and many others, for that reason I can enjoy watching the anime or reading a book whenever I have the opportunity.
I’ve been collecting on and off since 1999. I collect TCG only, though I collected figurines as a child. I’ve played the games since 2000, competitively since 2010.
I don’t consider myself a part of any fandom. I collect several things.
I try to be as little connected as possible.
Nothing motivates me currently and I have no active goals.
I separate holographic cards from non holographic cards. They’re all stacked in tupperwares, sorted by set and card number. Holographic cards get a cardsaver and soft sleeve, non holographic cards get only the soft sleeve.
As a collector of ungraded cards, I do not know the value of my collection. Though I appreciate their stories, I’m not sentimental about any of my cards.
It used to when I was an active collector.
Pokemon has been destroyed. Even disregarding that, the franchise itself has been on a downwards spiral for well over a decade. Like many others, I’m mostly looking to cash out these days and wash my hands of it. I don’t think it’ll be out of my life completely any time soon though.
Yes, very old and tired stories from a time that bears zero resemblance to today.
I would rephrase the question and talk about things I think are good, like game mechanics, designs, cards etc. What makes Pokemon special is a giant laundry list of entirely negative things.
That the vacant harmlessness of the Pokemon world is somehow mirrored in how it interacts with the real world.
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
I started collecting in 2013-15 with the set Legendary Treasures, primarily collected the cards and kept them all in a 3-ring binder with a piece of paper with the Pokemon logo png printed on it lol. I started collecting because my friend and I both got cards for our birthdays and would go shopping with our moms together at Target where we would always get packs.
These items in particular hold a lot of nostalgia to me and I vividly remember opening each one of these items (some once, some almost every week).
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
I do watch anime sometimes and enjoy collecting manga (I do try to read almost every book I buy, currently reading Berserk and I’m very much enjoying it!) and occasionally I get a cool looking figurine! Evangelion especially has some very interesting merch.
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokémon fandom?
I enjoy looking at the market and honestly being able to justify my collection and spending on the basis that I could sell those cards I’m purchasing for at least the same price I paid or more.
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
I feel like its just something inside me that gives me the urge to collect, I’ve always collected at least one thing, it seems to cycle between higher-end fashion items, shoes, and Pokémon. None of these things I have a real reason to be buying, and I’m 100% shopping out of my league but as of now it hasn’t caused too much financial stress on me, so it’s okay I guess lol.
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
I do keep a lot of sealed at my house, and any slabs over $100 I keep in the Fanatics Collect vault. I have a couple higher end slabs in my house for display but I don’t feel the need to keep it all physically. I understand why some people are against the whole online vaults thing we have going on now with PSA and Fanatics, but I’m not against it.
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
Right now, this slab is appraised the highest in my vault:
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
Yes, 100%. I have many good memories going to trading days at local toy stores as a kid and trading with my friends. A lot of my friends have moved on from collecting but here I am 10 years later back to collecting this time with grown up money lol.
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
I cant say I haven’t contributed by selling items when they surge in price a lot and to me it seems worth it to cash out and get a slab / item I enjoy more. But honestly it’s kind of insane, I’m all for my cards going up in value, but its a little less enjoyable when I’m paying double or more for any modern chase cards I want, and can’t find a single pack in-store for my girlfriend and I to open.
I will leave it at that because it’s late, thank you @katieoh for the interesting questions and quality thread!
I collect since the OG era in the 90s. Even back then I loved Japanese Pokémon cards which were cheaper at that time and the sets released a long time earlier. After Gen 2 I only collected Japanese promo cards until Sword and shield.
Other than Pokémon cards I collect Warhammer 40k but it’s not just a collecting hobby more like a painting miniatures hobby for me.
I used to play the Pokémon tcg but I stopped long ago and now I’m mainly collecting.
My most valuable card is probably the university magikarp.
Nostalgia for sure plays a role for me. I think I especially love Gen 2 Pokémon. I always get hyped when I see a cool Gen 2 art.
I personally don’t like the money focused approach on collecting Pokémon. I just enjoy buying cards I like. And Im really angry when seeing scalpers who empty all shelves in local stores. This kind of behaviour really takes away the joy for me and I’m disgusted with the selfish behaviour of them scalpers.
But that being said I try to focus on positive stuff in this hobby. I mean it’s my hobby so I can relax and escape the real world struggles so I try to don’t let ppl take that away from me.
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
When I was 11. I liked Pokemon (Pocket Monsters) because of the vibrant colours. Started collecting the Japanese gaming comic books first, then a ANA Boeing 747 Pokejet, then Tomy Takara toys, then cards.
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
Yugioh, DBZ cards (Japanese ones) and watches.
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
Instagram. Really a great way to connect with other collectors.
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
The art and rarity of the card. I used to focus on e-Card/e-series holos, lottery promos, WEB, etc. Keep it to PSA 10 now. Now I’m only keeping a rare booster pack and an Umbreon PSA 10 Town on No Map holo.
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
My rare raws are either in a binder or in penny sleeves. The sleeved up raw cards are placed inside an acrylic funko pop box with some other graded cards. They’re stored inside a dry box at 34% humidity, alongside my binder, precious metals and watches. Debatable whether the latter items should be stored at 34% humidity but they seem fine so far.
I keep them protected because I hate moisture. They’re the destruction of many collectibles and the bane of my existence. I’ve been very careful and have done well avoiding them. Moisture is evil.
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
My dry box. It keeps the moisture away and protects my collection.
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
Yes. In 2020 it got silly and became an immature way of hiding from reality the of COVID.
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
Yes many thoughts and I hate it. It has spawned off idiotic grading companies as well.
Any particular stories or memories tied to collecting or the fandom that especially stand out for you?
When Pokemon Go came out. It was maddening.
Are there any characters or pokemon you particularly enjoy or relate to? Why?
Charizard because of Pokemon Red. Didn’t care if it made the game journey the most difficult, using him was cool.
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
LoL. Yes.
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
It’s great and messed up.
Is there anything about the fandom or your experience that you feel is misunderstood or overlooked by outsiders?
Scalpers are universal. It’s not just an American or Western thing, they exist even in Asia and Japan.
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
Started collecting in 2014 starting with the charizard ex premium collection. Then I got back into it during crown zenith. I fell in love with rayquaza and now have TCG and non TCG product (statue, cards, slabs, magazines, etc etc.) I love rayquaza with a burning passion and will collect ANYTHING Rayquaza!
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
I only collect pokemon cards, and most of the cards I collect are rayquaza. You’ll hear me talk about rayquaza a lot, so don’t be alarmed if I include rayquaza in a non rayquaza conversation
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
I like looking at sets, determining the future of pokemon and finding other card collections to enjoy!
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
I’m motivated by not only my E4 community, but my Mom, who has just started actively collecting. My main goal is to 100% complete all rayquaza cards in english, then collect every single rayquaza card. Then and only then will I have completed my goal. I also LOVE collecting the card. I get excited even over a basic rayquaza V and will be jumping for joy whenever I get a rayquaza gift.
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
I don’t really organize my collection like that, but my mom thinks otherwise and likes to organize it by common factors. Idek why lmao
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
The most valuable item in my collection either has to be Rayquaza TG20 in a 10 or my Rayquaza V from evolving skies. I define value as in the eye of the collector. If you love your collection enough, it dosen’t exactly matter how much it’s worth!
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
Nostalgia played some sorta role in the start, but now my journey is by my own interest, not by nostalgia.
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
This is a tough one! Pokemon, like every other trading card company, has a market. Reselling is just apart of one of those factors, which leads to pokemon’s success. There’s nothing wrong with reselling in itself, as it’s a healthy part of the community. What most people are worried about is people inserting themselves into the Pokemon to table process and causing prices to go up. Pokemon was designed to be commmercialized, and knowing that there is a big market means that Pokemon and the TCG is healthy enough to sustain itself.
Any particular stories or memories tied to collecting or the fandom that especially stand out for you?
The memory of me pulling the Rayquaza TG20, PFM sending me graded cards to start my journey, the constant gifts I’ve gotten from so many members, there are too many stories to count!!
Are there any characters or pokemon you particularly enjoy or relate to? Why?
Rayquaza, Rayquaza, Rayquaza. I LOVE rayquaza, more than anyone else. I live, breathe, eat, sleep and dream about rayquaza. I can confidently say that collecting rayquaza gives me true joy.
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
Too many to count
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
I wouldn’t be able to say anything about it. It’s the type of thing that people have to experience themselves, and me saying something definetly wouldn’t do it justice.
Is there anything about the fandom or your experience that you feel is misunderstood or overlooked by outsiders?
Pokemon is NOT a childish or kids only game. Too many people misunderstand that adults love pokemon also, and they collect just as much, if not more than most kids. Pokemon is a genre for all, and thats what makes it so great.
Also just because your collections a lot of money dosen’t mean you should sell it immediately. People that say that probably don’t collect pokemon
Thanks for these questions, it feels like a manga interview!
I started as a 7 y.o. kid back in 1999, until I was around 14-15.
I started collecting again mid/late-2015 (when I was 23 years old). At the time I was mostly collecting Yu-Gi-Oh, but on impulse decided to put all Pikachu TCG cards that were in stock on TrollAndToad for <50 USD each in my cart, and that was basically the start of my Pikachu collection. I mostly did so, because I thought collecting all Pikachu cards would keep me busy for a while, which was an understatement, haha.
TCG:
Pikachu TCG cards in all languages and variations up to Feb. 27th, 2021 (25th Pokémon Day), as well as ALL English Pikachu TCG; the Base Set artwork reprints in all languages; and one of each non-English exclusive artwork, after that date. Right now, my English Pikachu TCG collection is 100% complete, and I’m missing just five Japanese; two German; and two Spanish cards from before 2021. (Pictures of my Pikachu collection can be found in the links in the main post of my collection thread.)
All English full art Supporter and Character Rare cards, as well as non-English exclusive artworks. Apart from incoming new releases, collection is 100% complete. (Slightly outdated scans/pictures can be found here.)
All Seviper TCG cards in all languages. Apart from incoming new releases, this collection is also 100% complete. (Seviper is my favorite Pokémon.) (Pictures can be found here.)
The Moltres WotC #21 promo in all languages; raw, sealed, and graded. The raw collection is complete; the sealed collection I’m not sure - I feel like the Danish one should exist because I’ve seen the Ancient Mew, but I’ve never seen any Legendary Birds with this insert yet; the graded collection is missing the Italian, German, Australian, and UK grading companies. (This artwork is my favorite of the entire Pokémon TCG.) (Pictures can be found here.)
The BREAKthrough Swablu in all languages. This collection is also 100% complete. (This artwork is my second favorite artwork of the entire Pokémon TCG.) (A picture can be found here.)
The first TCG card released in every language. Currently missing the new Latin American Spanish Caterpie. (A picture can be found here.)
Ancient Mew sixtet in PSA-10. (A picture can be found here.)
Non-TCG:
I collection anything and everything for Seviper. Non-TCG cards; stickers; pogs; posters; DVDs; plushies; figures; etc. etc. (My non-TCG Seviper collection can be found here, although I’ve added new items since then and also have a lot more incoming.)
I’ve got a complete Bandai Carddass collection. (Pictures can be found within the spoiler tag here.)
I’ve got a complete English TFG collection. (A picture can be found here.) The Italian TFG set is also complete, and I’m still trying to find three German and four French TFG cards to fully complete it in all languages.
I’ve collected a lot in my life (post stamps; minerals, gemstones, and fossils; twisty puzzles; etc. etc.) But the only other ‘fandom’ I’ve collected are Yu-Gi-Oh cards. In the past, I mostly just bought cards to re-create online decks irl, even though I only had my little brother to duel with. These days however, I only try to keep up with all the Yu-Gi-Oh rarities, although it’s an almost inactive collection. And I buy cool error cards or the new LART carts every now and then.
I’ve watched the entire anime; all episodes, movies, special/banned episodes, etc. I’ve never played the TCG nor any of the games, though.
I’m also a mod on this forum, and frequently visit it to read all new posts. I also visit the E4 Discord and some other Discord groups; some subreddits; and some IG Pokémon posts every now and then.
I’ve already mentioned my goals at the earlier question.
I’m mostly a completionist when it comes to my collection goals, aka “Gotta Catch 'Em All”. I also really enjoy learning more about the TCG, and I create posts or articles to help other collectors pretty often.
In general: it’s a hobby that keeps me busy. But in the almost ten years I’ve been collecting, I’ve felt a lot of different emotions on different occasions. Joy and relief when finally finding a card you’ve been looking for for 5+ years; stressed trying to keep up with 233 Pikachu TCG cards released in a single year (2019); conflicted when I was doubting about re-adjusting my collection goal from February 27th, 2021 onward; content with my decision, since it gave me the opportunity (and time/money) to focus on my other collection goals; surprise and utter euphoria when I sold three of my cards in order to buy a house (more on that in a bit); etc. etc.
After I sold my Japanese PSA-10 EBD trio in order to buy a house, the most expensive card in my collection right now is the Japanese PSA-10 The Masked Royal promo, which last time I checked is worth ~60-65k USD.
But apart from money, there are a few cards I would never sell no matter how much money someone would offer me (well, to some extend ), so I guess those are (for me personally) technically more valuable.
Definitely. I grew up with Pokémon, and it’s a huge aspect of my life. Some of my collection goals (like the Moltres) are due to that nostalgia, while others (like the FA Supporter/CHR) are more for the appreciation of the modern Pokémon artworks. I like all aspects and eras of the Pokémon TCG, and Pokémon in general. Even for the categories I’ve got little interest in myself, I still like that those aspects exist for others to enjoy (e.g. the games or playing the TCG).
Well, considering I bought three cards for roughly 4.5k USD, and was able to sell them just four years later for 150k USD, which enabled me to buy a house, despite being a single guy and this crazy housing market, I’d say it’s gotten pretty big. The literal fistfights at US supermarkets or the multi-million scam regarding the prototype cards is also a huge indication, and also clearly shows that there are also a lot of disadvantages in having an increasing monetary value overall..
Too many to name tbh. First episode me and my little brother saw (episode 2); first packs we’ve opened, and how I traded the holo Chansey pull away for a Vulpix, Pidgey, and Pidgeotto (as a kid I preferred quantity over quality); first Pokémon movie I saw in cinemas (the second movie, which is where I got the Moltres from); the crazy 150k sale mentioned earlier, so I could combine it with my savings money and mortgage to buy the house I currently live in; completing my Seviper TCG collection after ~4.5 years; going to Worlds in London and meeting fellow collectors I’ve previously only known online; being able to buy the final English Pikachu TCG card to complete that sub-collection after ~9 years; etc.
Relate to, not really. But Seviper is my favorite Pokémon. I’ve always been fascinated by snakes as a kid, and although some of the other snake Pokémon (Ekans, Arbok, Serperior, etc.) are also cool, Seviper’s design is just on a whole other level. It’s been my favorite Pokémon ever since I first saw it.
All the time. Although on this forum it’s usually more mellow and open-minded, with a few exceptions.
I basically grew up with Pokémon, and have also enjoyed collecting stuff, from 4-5 y.o. That, and this community, is what makes it special to me personally.
Not really. I don’t talk too much about Pokémon with family members; friends; or colleagues tbh. I guess one thing that a lot of outsiders have in common is saying things like “I’ve found my old childhood collection. Maybe it’s also worth thousands of USD.”, when in most cases they’re talking about heavy played unlimited edition English cards, and only care about the monetary value, instead of the nostalgia and memories that those old cards represent.
I started collecting when I was a kid (~ elementary school). I stopped for a while, and I came back in 2015-2016. I enjoy seeing non-tcg items and games as well, but my focus in on the TCG cards. They align perfectly with my taste.
I collect other things (like yugioh), although sporadically. But I’m not member of other fandoms right now.
I enjoy reading posts and interacting with Pokemon enthusiasts here, on E4. Other social media have too much noise & flexing for my taste.
Nostalgia plays a huge role for me, so completing vintage sets is what brings me the most joy. Flipping through my whole collection and enjoying all the beautiful artworks is great too!
Rn the majority of my collection is stored inside my binders (the most practical, inexpensive and efficient way to enjoy the hobby imho). My -small- graded collection is currently in a vault, unfortunately.
A graded Celebi ex psa9, I think. Value for me is the sum of:
-money required to buy the item again, in case of loss +
-how difficult it would be to find another copy +
-sentimental value.
Yes. Chasing nostalgia can be a trap, so I’m aware of that.
I honestly dislike the post pandemic market. I’m not saying that cards should be worth zero, but things used to be much better. Also, I’m not looking to sell my collection and I’ve nothing to gain from these market booms. The high value of some cards brings a level of anxiety and annoyance that I don’t want when I’m just chilling, buying and enjoying my cards
I remember when I was in high school, without much money or even a credit card to buy things online. I used to take the train alone, ready to meet with local sellers so I could buy all their cheap commons and non-holos. I had a huge smile on my face.
I particularly enjoy grass and psychic type pokemon. I like the team rocket too for some reason
Unfortunately yes.
I don’t think Pokemon are that special. It is a good franchise don’t get me wrong, but we’re obviously fans and biased towards it, so it’s special for us. If I had to convince someone I would say that the artworks are great and the early games are really fun.
My fear is that we’re getting to a point where being Pokemon fans is associated with those cringe moments (scams, walmart fights over booster boxes, whatnot, investors..). So mainstream for sure, but still not a good impression when talking with outsiders
I started with TCG, now I still mainly collect tcg
Not really, I would like to get into Magic but Pokemon already sucks my money and Magic decks get really expensive and is even more pay to win then Pokemon
Here is the most that I am online in Pokemon, I also will sometimes play at my lgs and go to a convention or two
I like to learn about new things and history and this has the perfect amount with the ability to be a nerd with others, collecting makes me feel nice
Not really just usually by era
The first squirtle I got, a shadowless squirtle from a family friend, I don’t value cards in a monetary sense, for me when buying a card I think, if Pokemon crashed to zero and the cards were all valued at 0 would I still enjoy this card? This is why I value the first squirtle I got which is in terrible condition with part of the back peeled off more then any other card in my collection, because the card means more to me with the story and significance behind it then any other card in my collection
Yes, and no, I have many memories but I really love reading about cards and as a kid I never played with random niches, for me it was just "oh cool that card looks knarly I never really cared much about a random print of a random card, I didn’t even know my first squirtle was shadowless till covid when I started doing a little of research
I liked it more when you didn’t have people fighting for children’s cardboard
Lots of them, I’ll just say my first Squirtle so that we don’t get another paragraph for a short story
Squirtle
I personally relate to ditto, here’s a picture of me in real life
I’m learning so much reading through these replies! It’s really interesting to learn more about everyone in this forum. And Quuador, I’m curious to learn more about these banned episodes, lol
When did you start collecting & why did you start collecting? What sort of Pokemon merch do you collect (TCG, figures, games, plushies, etc.)? Why those types of items in particular?
Back then videogame, cardgame. I played them both. The Burger King Toys I think had all the pokemon, or at least like a ton of them, and I collected those, but they are gone now. Otherwise toys weren’t and aren’t a thing for me. I’ve gotten stuffed pokenimals by accident. gifted to me. So I’ve kept them.
Are there any other fandoms you’re also a member of where you collect?
I like Legend of Zelda, but not as much is out there. I have most of the Limited editions of the games. I also liked Halo before it got ruined from Halo 4 onwards. So not for over a decade.
What’s your connection to the broader overall Pokemon fandom?
don’t understand the question. I’ll give it a go. If you mean do I do otherthings besides cards? yes. I never stopped buying and playing the videogames until scarlet/violet as they were unacceptable, Brilliant D, Shining P was the last straw. But I tried playing competitivly casually since gen 4.
What motivates you to collect? What, if any, goals do you have for collecting? How does collecting make you feel?
Nostalgia, and having money when I didn’t being young. And buying what I missed out on during those years. WOTC closed their physical stores in 2002, and I couldn’t play anymore. Finding cards got harder too. By 2007 there was no way. I have a car and can drive myself now. But there are more places to play now. Though its still hard, harder even as an adult for adult reasons. So collecting is what I’m doing. Not that i’m collecting much since the current situation is everything is expensive.
Do you organize your collection in a certain way? How & why?
Binder. sleeves for cards are color coded to try to match the sets thematic colors. See my colleection thread.
What’s the most valuable item in your collection and how do you define ‘value?’
What do I value the most? Probably my sick swirl cards. The most objectively price valuable card is a secret I only want to show to people in person. I value what I like. And I like things that are objectively rare or obscure, even if its not on the level pricewise of extremely common cards in comparison which have massively inflated prices like good ol’ moonbreon.
Does nostalgia play any role in your involvement in the fandom or as a collector?
I’ll tell ya a secret…Nostalgia is everything
Any thoughts on how big the resale market has gotten for Pokemon collecting, the focus on monetary value, the commercialization of it all?
If you mean resale for modern, yeah its sucks. Resale of out of print old singles is what you have to do. So that isn’t a problem. I have nothing in common with anyone who just values the latest expensive thing or seeing it as stocks and investment. Pokemon was always a commercial enterprise, so I think that last part is a non-starter. However without a healthy enough interest in anything, you won’t ever get more of it. many tcgs have died since MTG started back in the early 90s. We can thank black lotus and the mox cards for keeping financial interest around long enough for tcgs to continue to exist.
playground rumors were the best. finding mew was a big one. mystery is the best. battling with gameboys and link cables. trading for cards and videogames are the best.
Are there any characters or pokemon you particularly enjoy or relate to? Why?
slowpoke is a mood
Ever noticed any controversies or tensions in the community?
constantly. Its kind of funny to me. But yeah lots of drama llamas, usually due to scams. The whole Logan paul liquid marketplace and 1st edition booster case scam being unraveled by a scruffy canadian nobody(who is no longer a nobody. love ya rattle, stop lurking) was a hoot.
If you had to explain to a non-fan what makes Pokémon special, what would you say?
I like seeing small critters battle for my amusement. Real answer is it was just I was a kid at the right time. The 90’s kids having it the best is a meme because its true.
Is there anything about the fandom or your experience that you feel is misunderstood or overlooked by outsiders?
some years ago someone finally uploaded them all to youtube so i watched them and it was really awesome. The safari zone episode in particular was incredibly helpful from a plot standpoint. I always wondered where Ash’s tauros came from.
Pokemon Cards
