The Pikachu Illustrator card is extremely rare due to its limited production and unique distribution. It was awarded as a prize to winners of a CoroCoro Comic illustration contest in 1998, with only 39 copies ever distributed. This small number, coupled with the card's historical significance and its connection to a beloved character like Pikachu, makes it highly sought after by collectors.
The card's rarity and desirability are amplified by its distinctive design featuring a unique illustration of Pikachu by Atsuko Nishida, the original illustrator of the character. The card's status as a promotional item further contributes to its rarity, as it was never officially released as part of a standard trading card set.
These factors combine to make the Pikachu Illustrator card one of the most valuable and sought-after Pokémon trading cards in existence, with a record-breaking auction price exceeding $5 million.
