Rare Pokémon Card Fetches Over $50K, and Here’s Why

A Pokémon card collector known as Kabuto King is on a mission to make his favorite creature a beloved icon. Following a recent charity auction, he may be one step closer to achieving that goal. This passionate collector is on the hunt for every first-edition card featuring the prehistoric Pokémon, and he recently stirred up excitement during an eBay bidding war in early December that had even Logan Paul sweating. The focus of the frenzy? A card that had flown under the radar until now: Kabuto.

While the Kabuto card isn’t highly graded—typically a factor that would keep its price down—this particular card is well-worn and even signed by Kabuto King himself. Despite its condition, the auction wrapped up at an astonishing $51,100. The high bid can be attributed to Kabuto King’s promise that all proceeds would benefit charity.

With 1,800 Kabuto cards in his collection, Kabuto King has garnered significant attention for his unique obsession. As he continues to acquire more cards, the demand for first-edition Kabuto has surged, driving prices up. While it’s unlikely that Kabuto will ever reach the status of a holy grail card fetching thousands regularly, events like this auction are unlikely to help lower the prices of first-edition Kabuto cards anytime soon. A card that could be snagged for a couple of dollars just months ago now has numerous eBay listings starting at $20 or more.

Kabuto King has pledged that the $51,100 raised will go to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He insists he will never part with his collection, with this charity auction being the sole exception. Instead, he’s using this opportunity to promote his Kabuto passion. Although some critics suggest he’s trying to manipulate the card market, Kabuto King maintains that his intentions are purely about his love for the game. He simply wants to collect more Kabuto cards, and if others find joy in their own collections, that’s a bonus.

“To everyone who recently bought their first Kabuto… hold it, cherish it, display it and know that YOU are part of a movement that adds some good in the world,” Kabuto King shared on social media. “Kabuto isn’t just a Pokémon. It’s a symbol for what happens when we all get together for something fun & positive.”