Nidoking

Market outlook

Stable Outlook 6/10

Consistent collector interest in Base Set holos with minimal price volatility; recent sales show flat 30-day change[1] amid abundant supply.

Next months. Stable with slight upward pressure on gem mint graded copies due to grading boom.

Long term. Modest appreciation as vintage Pokémon TCG solidifies as blue-chip collectible, but capped by Unlimited abundance.

History

Nidoking is a Poison/Ground-type Pokémon from the Pokémon franchise, evolving from Nidoran♂ via Moon Stone and then Nidorino. It is a powerful, draconic poison beast known for its immense strength, horn that can crush boulders, and ability to secrete toxic tail poison, first appearing in Pokémon Red and Green (1996) as a significant mid-to-late game battler.

First printed in the Pokémon Base Set in January 1999 in the United States by Wizards of the Coast, as part of the initial English TCG release.

• Iconic early holo rare illustrated by Ken Sugimori, creator of Pokémon designs.
• Part of the legendary Base Set, which launched the Pokémon TCG globally.
• Features 90 HP, Poison/Ground typing, and attacks like Thrash and Horn Drill.

Rarity and print run

Tier

Rare

Print run

High

First printed in

Base Set

Demand

Medium

Supply

High

• Base Set pull rate 1:27 packs for holo rares.
• Unlimited edition most common due to large print run.
• 1st Edition and Shadowless significantly scarcer.

Collector notes

Condition. Check for holo scratching on Nidoking's purple body and horn, centering issues common in Base Set holos, edge whitening, print lines on borders, and surface scratches from play; avoid cards with cloudy foil or roller marks.

Storage. Use semi-rigid holders or top loaders with sleeves in cool, dry environment away from sunlight; for long-term, consider professional grading by graded or graded to prevent oxidation.

Authenticity. Verify Wizards of the Coast copyright on bottom left, correct font/spacing on text, crisp holo pattern without pixelation; fakes often have dull foil, off-color purple, or incorrect drop shadow under artwork; compare to official scans and check for 3rd-party grading.