Hi there! My name is Professor Willow, and I'm a leading researcher in the field of Pokemon. I've dedicated my life to understanding these fascinating creatures, their history, and their impact on the world. So, you want to know about the very first Pokemon card ever printed? That's a fantastic question! It's a trip down memory lane, back to the origins of what would become a global phenomenon. Let's dive in!

The first Pokemon cards weren't printed in America or even Europe, but in Japan. The very first set, known as Expansion Pack 1 was released on February 20th, 1996, by Media Factory under the name Pocket Monsters Card Game. This set laid the foundation for the Pokemon Trading Card Game (PTCG) we know and love today.

Now, you might be wondering, "Which specific card holds the honor of being the 'first'?" While the entire set debuted simultaneously, the card often cited as the first is Venusaur.

There are a few reasons for this:

* Holofoil Treatment: Unlike other cards in the set, the Venusaur card featured a stunning holographic illustration, making it incredibly rare and desirable. This holographic design element quickly became a hallmark of valuable and sought-after cards in the Pokemon TCG.

* Promotional Powerhouse: This Venusaur card was heavily featured in pre-release promotional materials, gracing magazines and posters, solidifying its place in the minds of early adopters as *the* card to own.

* Illustrator Recognition: The artwork for this Venusaur, like many early Pokemon cards, was masterfully illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita. His distinct style helped define the early visual identity of the Pokemon franchise.

However, it's important to note that within the context of the set's numerical order, Venusaur isn't #1. That distinction goes to Bulbasaur, the Grass-type starter from the Kanto region. Bulbasaur's card number is 001/064, firmly placing it at the very beginning of the set's numbering system.

So, while Venusaur may be considered the most iconic and perhaps the most historically significant card from Expansion Pack 1, Bulbasaur technically holds the numerical "first" position.

It's fascinating to see how these early decisions and design choices shaped the future of the Pokemon TCG. The legacy of Expansion Pack 1, with its iconic Venusaur and foundational Bulbasaur, continues to resonate with collectors and players worldwide. They stand as a testament to the enduring power of Pokemon and the innovative spirit of the TCG.

read more >>

Charizard is one of the most popular Pokemon characters. The first edition of the trading card featuring him is quite valuable. A mint condition, first edition Charizard card fetches a hefty price. With only five in circulation, the Pikachu Illustrator card is the rarest Pokemon card in existence.read more >>