First Edition Bulbasaur (Base Set)
Bulbasaur is card #001 in the Pokédex and holds a unique place in the hearts of fans. In the 1999 Base Set, this card was the entry point for the Grass-type “Evolution” strategy. While it was a Common card, the 1st Edition version is now anything but common. Mitsuhiro Arita’s artwork captures Bulbasaur in a serene, natural pose that has become the definitive image of the Seed Pokémon for over two decades.
For collectors, a 1st Edition Shadowless Bulbasaur is more than just a piece of cardboard. It is a symbol of the beginning of the Pokémon phenomenon. It is often the first card acquired when someone decides to build a complete 1st Edition set.
What Is Bulbasaur?
Card Name: Bulbasaur
Set: Base Set (1st Edition)
Rarity: Common
Card Type: Grass
Artist: Mitsuhiro Arita
Gameplay Highlights:
- Leech Seed: For two Grass energy, Bulbasaur dealt 20 damage. If the attack was successful, you could remove one damage counter from Bulbasaur. This allowed it to stay on the field longer than many other 40 HP Basics.
- Evolution Engine: Bulbasaur was the necessary first step to reaching Ivysaur and the powerhouse Venusaur.
- Early Game Pressure: While 20 damage was modest, the healing effect of Leech Seed made Bulbasaur a nuisance in the first few turns of a match.
Historical Context and Collector Appeal
Bulbasaur was one of the three “Starter” Pokémon that defined the 1990s. This specific card was featured in the “Brushfire” theme deck, but those versions lacked the 1st Edition stamp. The true 1st Edition Shadowless print run was extremely limited.
Collectors value this version because:
- The 1st Edition Stamp: The small black “Edition 1” logo on the left side of the card indicates the earliest possible print run.
- Shadowless Layout: The card lacks the drop shadow behind the art box. It also features a lighter green color palette that many enthusiasts find more aesthetically pleasing than the later Unlimited prints.
- Mitsuhiro Arita’s Legacy: Arita is one of the most famous illustrators in the history of the game. This Bulbasaur is one of his most iconic works.
- High Grade Scarcity: Even though millions of Bulbasaur cards were printed, very few 1st Edition copies survived in Gem Mint condition.
Current Market Data
The value of 1st Edition Bulbasaur has remained strong due to its status as a “Fan Favorite” Starter.
Typical Price Ranges:
- Excellent to Near Mint (Ungraded): $45 to $110
- PSA 8 (Near Mint-Mint): $150 to $220
- PSA 9 (Mint): $300 to $500
- PSA 10 (Gem Mint): $1,200 to $1,850+ (Prices vary based on the specific demand for “registry” sets).
Condition Sensitivity
Common cards like Bulbasaur were rarely kept in protective sleeves back in 1999. Finding one in high grade is a major win for any collector.
Strengths:
- Simple Palette: The light green borders and background are very clean. This makes the card look exceptional in a professional grade slab.
- Nostalgia Factor: Collectors are often willing to overlook minor centering issues just to own this piece of history.
Common Issues:
- Surface Scuffing: Because these cards were often shuffled without sleeves, light scratches on the surface are very common.
- Corner Wear: Small white nicks on the back corners are the most frequent reason for a grade lower than a 9.
- Ink Smudging: Some 1st Edition prints show very minor ink smudging on the 1st Edition stamp itself.
Why Bulbasaur Endures
- Pokédex #001: It will always be the card that starts the collection.
- Universal Popularity: Bulbasaur consistently ranks as one of the most popular Pokémon across all generations.
- Historical Significance: It represents the birth of the Pokémon TCG in the Western world.
3 Comments