What is my 1999 Charizard actually worth?

The 1999 Charizard is the most-asked-about card we receive. Condition and print variation move value more than anything else — here's how to triage your copy without sending it anywhere first.

Three prints, three value tiers

First Edition (1st Ed). Look for the "Edition 1" stamp inside a circle on the left side of the card, below the artwork. First edition base-set Charizards are the most valuable. A PSA 10 has sold for six figures; even a heavily played raw copy is worth significantly more than its unlimited counterpart.

Shadowless. No "Edition 1" stamp, but no shadow under the artwork frame or behind Charizard. This is a print run that occurred between 1st Edition and the standard unlimited run. Shadowless Charizards carry a meaningful premium over unlimited and are often misidentified as unlimited.

Unlimited. Shadow visible behind the artwork box. This is the most common print and the one you're most likely holding. Still valuable in high grade — raw NM/LP copies sell for $30–$80 typically — but nowhere near 1st Edition prices.

How to identify your copy without damaging it

1. Check the left side of the card. Is there an "Edition 1" stamp in a circle? If yes: First Edition.
2. Look at the right side of the card. Is there a shadow behind the image frame box? If no shadow: shadowless. If shadow: unlimited.
3. Do not do the corner bend test. This test has destroyed cards. There is no reason to bend the corner — print dots and shadow identification are enough.

What condition means for value

Condition is the biggest swing on unlimited copies:

• Near mint (NM): Centering within 60/40, no scratches on holo, no edge whitening. Grades PSA 8–10 territory.
• Lightly played (LP): Minor edge whitening or small surface scratch. Usually PSA 6–7.
• Moderately played (MP): Visible whitening on edges, small creases. PSA 4–5.
• Heavily played (HP) or damaged: Major creases, tears, heavy scratches. Raw buyer value only.

What to photograph before sending us a quote

• Front of card in good lighting, no flash glare
• Back of card
• Close-up of the left side (to check for 1st Ed stamp)
• Close-up of the right side under the artwork (to check for shadow)

What to send us

Include your Charizard photos in the quote form with a note about what print variation you think you have. We triage Charizards carefully and come back with a range and reasoning within 1–2 business days.