Heliolisk

Market outlook

Rising Outlook 7/10

Recent 30-day price surge of +44.2% indicates strong short-term momentum, driven by collector interest in the artist and the set's novelty as the largest English set[1][5]

Next months. Over next 3-6 months, prices likely to stabilize between $5 and $7 for raw copies, with potential for graded 9 graded copies to reach $60–$80 if demand remains high

Long term. In 1-3 years, prices may decline slightly due to high supply, but could remain stable ($3–$6 raw) if the artist's legacy continues to grow and the set remains a collector staple

History

Heliolisk is a dual-type Pokémon (Lightning/Normal) introduced in the Pokémon X and Y games, known as the 'Solar Saurus' and characterized by its ability to generate electricity using a frill on its back. It holds significance in the Pokémon Trading Card Game as a Stage 1 Electric-type Pokémon with the ability 'Frilled Generator', which allows energy attachment manipulation.

This specific card, Ascended Heroes #229/217 Illustration Rare, was first released in June 2026 as part of the Mega Evolution: Ascended Heroes set in the English Pokémon TCG.

• Illustrated by Takeshi Nakamura, with a visual metaphor emphasizing solar-electric energy synergy[2][4]
• Part of a set containing 33 Illustration Rares and 14 Ultra Rare full art cards, making Ascended Heroes the largest English set ever with 78 Secret Rares total[2][5]
• Last sold for $5.19 on April 28, 2026, with a 30-day price increase of +44.2%[1]

Rarity and print run

Tier

Secret Rare

Print run

Very High

First printed in

Mega Evolution: Ascended Heroes

Demand

High

Supply

High

• Part of a 33-card Illustration Rare subset within a 78-Secret-Rare set, making it one of the more common Secret Rares relative to Ultra Rares[5]
• High estimated print run due to being a standard Illustration Rare rather than a Special Illustration Rare or Secret Rare with limited distribution[5]
• Illustrator popularity (Takeshi Nakamura) increases collector demand but does not reduce supply

Collector notes

Condition. Key flaws include edge wear on the frill, surface scratches on the holographic foil, and centering issues. For Illustration Rares, ensure the artwork is sharp with no creasing or bent corners. Common flaws observed in lightly played copies include minor scuffing on the back[1][8].

Storage. Store in a rigid top loader with a penny sleeve, keep in a climate-controlled environment away from UV light, and avoid stacking heavy items on top. Use a cardboard-backed sleeve for long-term protection to prevent bending[8].

Authenticity. Fakes often have duller holographic quality, misaligned text, or incorrect font styles. Verify the card number (229/217), illustrator name (Takeshi Nakamura), and ability text ('Frilled Generator'). Official TCG database entries on Pokemon.com confirm authenticity[2][7]. Grading by graded, Beckett, or graded provides further verification[1].