Market outlook
Declining Outlook 4/10
Post-release hype faded with 58% graded 10 drop by mid-2025; common Pokémon status limits collector interest.
Next months. Continued softening with prices stabilizing at $50-$70 graded 10 in next 3-6 months
Long term. Stable low-value collector item under $100 graded 10 over 1-3 years, unlikely appreciation
History
Pidgey is a small, common Normal/Flying-type Pokémon introduced in Generation I (Pokémon Red and Blue). Known as a ubiquitous wild Pokémon resembling a tiny bird, it evolves into Pidgeotto and Pidgeot, symbolizing humble beginnings in the Pokémon world with no major lore significance but iconic as one of the first encounterable Pokémon.
First released in the Pokémon Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames set on August 11, 2023, in English; German language variant printed simultaneously as part of the global multilingual release.
- Despite being a basic common Pokémon, this Illustration Rare features unique artwork elevating its collectible appeal.
- Card #207/197 exceeds the base set count, marking it as a Special Illustration Rare (SIR) chase card.
- Low HP (60) and simple attack (Gust for 20 damage) make it unviable in competitive play, purely a collector's item.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Ultra Rare
- Print run
- Medium
- First printed in
- Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames
- Demand
- Low
- Supply
- Medium
- Illustration Rare pull rate ~1:100 packs
- Special card #207/197 beyond base 197 count
- Single printing increases long-term availability
Collector notes
Condition. Inspect centering on the expansive full-art background prone to off-centering; check edges for print defects common in foil Illustration Rares; surface scratches on holo pattern and artwork smudges are frequent flaws.
Storage. Use semi-rigid top-loaders with sleeves in cool, dry environments; avoid direct light to prevent foil oxidation; store flat in binders or boxes away from stacking pressure.
Authenticity. Verify holo pattern consistency and font alignment matching official scans; check weight and flex (fakes often stiffer); use Pokémon TCG official database or apps like Pokédex for UV authentication markers; German prints match English card stock.
Sources: sportscardinvestor.com, pricecharting.com, tcgplayer.com, cardtrader.com, pokedata.io