Market outlook
Declining Outlook 5/10
Recent 30-day price drop of -57.1% on raw NM copies with high listing volume (492) outpacing sales (avg 5/day)[1][3]
Next months. Continued soft prices next 3-6 months due to inventory
Long term. Stable for graded high-end copies as Lucario popularity endures, potential modest appreciation in 1-3 years
History
Lucario is a Steel/Fighting-type Pokémon from Generation IV (Diamond/Pearl), known as the Aura Pokémon, evolving from Riolu and renowned for sensing and manipulating aura energy, making it a fan-favorite for its martial arts-inspired design and significance in anime/games as a powerful battler.
2023 as part of Sword & Shield Black Star Promos, distributed via Crown Zenith Elite Trainer Box promotions from FrenchShop with Affiliates.
- Lucario VSTAR features VSTAR and VMAX mechanics from Sword & Shield era, emphasizing high-damage attacks.
- Promo variant tied to specific retailer promotions, increasing collector appeal.
- Full Art design showcases dynamic artwork highlighting Lucario's aura powers.
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Ultra Rare
- Print run
- Low
- First printed in
- Sword & Shield Black Star Promos (SWSH291)
- Demand
- Medium
- Supply
- Medium
- Promo-only distribution via specific Elite Trainer Boxes
- Low graded population for SWSH291
- Full Art VSTAR design appeals to Lucario completists
Collector notes
Condition. Inspect centering on full art borders, check for print lines on holo pattern, watch for edge whitening and surface scratches common on promo foils; surface roller marks often appear near bottom.
Storage. Use semi-rigid top-loaders with sleeves, store upright in cool, dry environment away from sunlight to prevent holo oxidation; avoid stacking without dividers.
Authenticity. Verify black star promo stamp alignment and font; genuine cards have crisp holo pattern without pixelation; check graded pop reports for SWSH291 as low graded populations indicate limited counterfeits; compare holo sparkle to known images.