Cyndaquil

Market outlook

Declining Outlook 3/10

30-day change -25.1% with raw NM dropping from higher values; oversupply from promo distribution outweighs nostalgia demand[1].

Next months. Continued soft prices around $0.30-$2 raw due to excess supply

Long term. Stable low value; minor upside for high-grade gems if Johto nostalgia spikes, but unlikely to exceed $10 ungraded

History

Cyndaquil is a Fire-type Basic Pokémon introduced in Generation II (Pokémon Gold and Silver) as the starter Pokémon in the Johto region, known for its flame-covered back that ignites when threatened, evolving into Quilava and then Typhlosion; it holds significance as one of the iconic Johto starters with a loyal fanbase[3].

First released in English as SWSH Black Star Promo in the Collector Bundle on March 25, 2022, and Spring 2022 Collector Chest on May 6, 2022; Japanese non-holo version distributed via elementary schools in late January 2022[3][2].

• Holofoil artwork by Teeziro with HP 60 and attack 'Charge Energy' that searches for up to 2 basic Energy cards[2][4][3]
• Initial print-runs were Mirror Holofoil, later Collector Chests included Cosmos Holofoil variants from February 2023[3]
• Part of SWSH Black Star Promos, also available in Collector Bundle with two other promos[2]

Rarity and print run

Tier

Promo

Print run

High

First printed in

SWSH Black Star Promos (Collector Bundle Spring 2022)

Demand

Low

Supply

High

• Distributed in widely available Collector Bundles and Chests, leading to high supply
• Multiple holo variants (Mirror and Cosmos) increase availability
• Low graded population (graded 10 pop 2, graded 9 pop 15) but abundant raw copies[2]

Collector notes

Condition. Check for centering issues, edge wear, surface scratches on holo pattern, print lines, and whitening on corners/edges; common flaws include holo scratches from promo packaging and minor bends from collector chests[1][2].

Storage. Store in semi-rigid or top-loader sleeves with cardboard backing in cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent holo oxidation; use card savers for shipping[2].

Authenticity. Verify black star promo stamp, illustrator name 'Teeziro', and holo pattern (Mirror or Cosmos); fakes often have blurry text, incorrect fonts, or mismatched energy costs; compare to official scans and check pop reports (low graded 10 pop of 2)[2][3].