The Magikarp Illustration Rare card from the Paldea Evolved set has reached a market value of approximately 267 dollars as of October 2025. The card features artwork by Shinji Kanda and depicts Magikarp leaping up a waterfall with Gyarados in the background. It has become the most valuable card in the Paldea Evolved expansion despite Magikarp being one of the weakest Pokemon in gameplay.[1][2]
Current Market Value and Trends
PriceCharting data from October 8, 2025 shows ungraded copies of Magikarp card number 203 from Paldea Evolved averaging 299.99 dollars, representing a 26.03 dollar increase from the previous month.[3] The card experienced notable growth in September 2025, when prices climbed from 296 dollars on September 19 to 405 dollars by October 3.[4] PSA 10 graded versions command significantly higher prices, with recent sales reaching 2,312.50 dollars.[3]
Population and Scarcity Data
PSA population reports indicate approximately 16,092 total graded submissions for this card as of October 2025.[5] The relatively limited print run of Illustration Rare cards in Paldea Evolved contributes to sustained collector demand. Multiple grading companies have processed submissions, with PSA 10 grades comprising a fraction of the total population.
Artist Recognition Drives Demand
Shinji Kanda created the artwork for this card, and his distinctive illustrative style has attracted collector attention across multiple Pokemon TCG releases.[6] Kanda debuted as a Pokemon TCG artist with Magmar in the Brilliant Stars set and has since illustrated more than 26 cards. In 2025, he participated in a signing event at the Pokemon Europe International Championships, further raising his profile among collectors.[7]
Comparison to Other Magikarp Cards
The Paldea Evolved Magikarp ranks among the most expensive modern Magikarp cards but does not surpass vintage releases in total value. Analysis of the 15 most valuable Magikarp cards shows several examples exceeding this card in price.[8]
Shining Magikarp from Neo Revelation commands approximately 160 dollars raw and 2,300 dollars in PSA 10 condition.[8]
Japanese Magikarp and Wailord GX TAG TEAM cards reach 125 to 250 dollars depending on version and grade.[8]
The 25th Anniversary Japanese Shining Magikarp promo averages 125 dollars for raw copies.[9]
Various trophy cards and competition exclusives exceed 1,000 dollars in graded form.[8]
The English Magikarp and Wailord GX full art averages 220 dollars raw.[8]
The Paldea Evolved set launched on June 9, 2023 and introduced 36 Illustration Rare cards among 193 main set cards plus secret rares.[10] Illustration Rare cards feature full card artwork without text boxes and represent one of the premium rarity tiers in modern Pokemon TCG releases. Collector interest in these artistic cards has remained consistent since their introduction in late Sword and Shield era sets.[2]
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Updated market value from approximately 400 dollars to 267 dollars based on Rare Candy October 2025 data.
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FAQ
Why is the Magikarp card so valuable?
The Magikarp Illustration Rare card number 203 from Paldea Evolved combines limited print run scarcity with distinctive artwork by Shinji Kanda. As an Illustration Rare card, it features full card artwork without text boxes, representing a premium rarity tier in modern Pokemon TCG. The card became the most valuable in the set despite Magikarp being weak in gameplay.
How did the price change occur?
The price increased from 296 dollars on September 19 to 405 dollars by October 3, 2025. Growing demand for Shinji Kanda artwork and limited Illustration Rare supply drove the price surge. Collector interest in this premium rarity tier remained strong throughout September and into October.
What makes this card different from others?
This card features complete full art illustration by Shinji Kanda showing Magikarp leaping up a waterfall with Gyarados in the background. It carries the Illustration Rare designation with card number 203 from 193, marking it as a secret rare from the Paldea Evolved expansion. Kanda artwork has attracted consistent collector demand across multiple Pokemon TCG releases.
