Gold Star Torchic – The Underdog Fire-Type That’s Heating Up
When collectors talk about Gold Star Pokémon, Rayquaza and Charizard dominate the conversation. But one fiery underdog is making a serious move up the charts: Gold Star Torchic from EX Team Rocket Returns.
Originally overlooked for being a Stage 1 starter, Torchic is now one of the most expensive Gold Star cards—and it’s gaining steam fast.
🔥 Why Torchic Is So Rare
✔️ Ultra Low Pull Rate – Gold Stars had an average pull rate of 1 in 2 booster boxes.
✔️ EX Team Rocket Returns was lightly printed – This set is one of the lowest-printed in the EX era.
✔️ Not many survived in mint condition – As a less famous starter, many Torchics were mishandled or played with.
> Today, Torchic’s scarcity rivals even Gold Star Umbreon and Espeon.
📈 Price Trends (2020–2025)
| Grade | 2020 Price | 2023 Price | 2025 Price (Now) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSA 10 | ~$4,000 | ~$12,000 | $18,000+ |
| PSA 9 | ~$1,200 | ~$3,000 | $5,000+ |
| Raw NM | ~$800 | ~$1,500 | $3,000+ |
✅ This card has more than quadrupled in value over the last five years.
🧠 Why Investors Love It
1️⃣ Part of the Gold Star Trinity with Mudkip & Treecko
- Completing this starter trio is a goal for many collectors.
2️⃣ Extremely Low PSA 10 Population
- As of now, fewer than 50 PSA 10 copies exist.
3️⃣ Unique Art by Masakazu Fukuda
- Known for bold, dynamic Gold Star designs—Torchic’s pose and composition stand out.
⚠️ Should You Buy Now?
| Grade | Investment Outlook |
|---|---|
| PSA 10 | 🔥🔥🔥 Blue-Chip Long-Term Hold |
| PSA 9 | 🔥 Strong Entry Point |
| Raw | 🟡 Be Cautious – many Torchics are misrepresented in condition |
> If you’re looking to diversify away from the usual Charizard hype, Torchic is a sleeper pick with serious upside.
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