Guide
What is my 1999 Charizard actually worth?
Unlimited vs 1st Edition vs shadowless — quick triage without grading jargon walls.
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.