When a single piece of cardboard sells for $90,000, it grabs headlines—and in the Pokémon world, such stories are becoming increasingly common. But this one stands out: a Rayquaza card, pulled directly from a pack, managed to shatter expectations and rake in a whopping $90,000 at auction. This wasn’t just any Rayquaza—it was the iconic Rayquaza Gold Star from the EX Deoxys set. In this article, we’ll explore how this card reached such heights, the rarity behind the pull, and why it’s one of the most sought-after cards in the Pokémon TCG universe.
The Legendary Card: Rayquaza Gold Star (EX Deoxys)
Released in 2005, the EX Deoxys expansion introduced one of the rarest and most visually striking cards ever produced: the Rayquaza Gold Star (#107/107). Designed by Masakazu Fukuda, this card is instantly recognizable by its shimmering gold star symbol next to the card’s name and Rayquaza’s alternative black color—a shiny variant of the iconic dragon.
Key Features of Rayquaza Gold Star:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Set | EX Deoxys (2005) |
| Card Number | #107/107 |
| Rarity | Gold Star (★) |
| Type | Basic Pokémon – Dragon |
| Special Attribute | Shiny (Black Rayquaza) |
| Illustrator | Masakazu Fukuda |
| Pull Rate | 1 in 2 booster boxes (approx.) |
| PSA 10 Population | Less than 50 (as of 2024) |
What Makes This Card Worth $90,000?
The staggering price of this Rayquaza Gold Star card wasn’t just about nostalgia. Several factors came together to justify its five-figure sale:
1. Extreme Rarity
The pull rate for Gold Star cards is incredibly low—some estimate it’s around 1 in every 72 booster packs. EX Deoxys booster packs are already rare and expensive, with sealed boxes fetching thousands. Getting a mint Rayquaza from a fresh pack is next to impossible today.
2. Condition: PSA 10
The card that sold for $90,000 was professionally graded PSA 10 Gem Mint. This top-tier condition adds exponential value due to the near-flawless centering, corners, and gloss. There are fewer than 50 PSA 10s globally, making it a true elite collector’s piece.
3. Character Popularity
Rayquaza is one of the most beloved legendary Pokémon from the Hoenn region and plays a central role in Pokémon Emerald. Its design, power, and mythos resonate with fans across generations.
4. Shiny Hype
Shiny Pokémon, especially in card form, have a cult-like following. The black version of Rayquaza is iconic and visually dramatic. Its rarity in the games mirrors its scarcity in TCG form.
The Pull Story: A Modern Miracle
What made this sale even more remarkable was how the card was pulled. According to the seller and several sources, this Rayquaza was drawn from a sealed EX Deoxys booster pack, either from a vintage opening stream or a private box break. Such pulls are considered modern miracles due to the astronomical odds and rising cost of packs.
Key Moment:
- The pack was opened live on stream.
- Viewers witnessed the black shimmer of Rayquaza as the final card.
- Immediate reaction: gasps, cheers, and disbelief.
- The card was sleeved instantly and later submitted for grading.
Collector’s Market: A Gold Rush in the TCG
The Pokémon card market has exploded in the last few years. With influencers, YouTubers, and celebrities entering the game, prices have surged. Vintage cards, especially graded in mint condition, are now considered investment assets.
Why This Rayquaza Fits the Market Trend:
- High scarcity, high demand.
- Strong visual and emotional appeal.
- Population control: Few mint specimens exist.
- Investment potential: Value has tripled in 5 years.
Previous Auction History and Comparisons
This wasn’t the first time a Rayquaza Gold Star fetched a premium, but the $90,000 sale set a new precedent.
| Year | Condition | Sale Price | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | PSA 10 | $18,000 | eBay |
| 2021 | PSA 10 | $36,000 | Goldin Auctions |
| 2023 | PSA 10 | $67,500 | PWCC Marketplace |
| 2024 | PSA 10 | $90,000 | Private Collector Deal |
This sharp rise demonstrates growing scarcity and collector confidence in Pokémon as a luxury-grade collectible.
The Legacy of Gold Star Cards
Gold Star cards are the crown jewels of the Pokémon TCG. Introduced in the EX-era (2004–2007), they were limited to three per set and often depicted shiny variants. Other notable examples include:
- Charizard Gold Star (EX Dragon Frontiers)
- Mewtwo Gold Star (EX Holon Phantoms)
- Espeon & Umbreon Gold Stars (POP Series 5)
Rayquaza, however, remains the most valuable of them all due to its aesthetic, nostalgia, and meta reputation.
Final Thoughts
The story of a Rayquaza Gold Star selling for $90,000 is more than just a tale of cardboard and ink—it’s about history, passion, and the incredible growth of Pokémon collecting. It captures a moment where childhood fantasy becomes high-stakes reality. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or just a fan, the rise of this legendary card serves as a powerful reminder: sometimes, treasure really does come in small, shiny packages.
