Market outlook
Rising Outlook 6/10
Recent sales show +17.5% in 30 days and +69% yearly, fueled by nostalgia for baby Pokémon and Illustration Rare artwork appeal[1]
Next months. Continued modest gains (+10-20%) next 3-6 months with set rotation approaching
Long term. Stable to slight decline in 1-3 years as supply saturates and focus shifts to newer sets
History
Cleffa is a Fairy-type Baby Pokémon introduced in Generation II (Pokémon Gold and Silver), known as the Star Shape Pokémon. It is the pre-evolved form of Clefairy, often depicted as a cute, star-headed creature that waves its arms to ward off danger and is associated with meteorites and nocturnal behavior.
First printed in the Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames set, released August 11, 2023, in the United States.
- This Illustration Rare features unique artwork highlighting Cleffa's adorable, starry design, making it popular among collectors.
- Cleffa has appeared in multiple Pokémon TCG sets since its debut in the early 2000s, but this 202/197 version is from the modern Scarlet & Violet era.
- The card gained attention through community events like YouTube pack openings hunting for this specific Illustration Rare.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Ultra Rare
- Print run
- Medium
- First printed in
- Scarlet & Violet: Obsidian Flames
- Demand
- Medium
- Supply
- Medium
- Illustration Rare pull rate in Obsidian Flames booster packs is approximately 1:72 packs.
- Limited to one printing in a standard expansion set with high overall print volume.
- Collector demand driven by Cleffa's popularity as a baby Pokémon.
Collector notes
Condition. Check for centering issues on the colorful holofoil artwork, edge whitening from sleeves, surface scratches on the glossy finish, and print lines common in Illustration Rares; avoid cards with roller marks or dimples.
Storage. Store in semi-rigid top loaders with sleeves in a cool, dry environment away from sunlight to prevent holo oxidation; use album pages or binders for display but prioritize acid-free materials.
Authenticity. Verify black market symbol, crisp text fonts, and holo pattern consistency; compare to official scans for color accuracy and numbering; graded/graded grading recommended for high-value copies to confirm authenticity.