London, 28 February 2025 16:00GMT — Pokémon enthusiasts and collectors, get ready! In celebration of Pokémon's 29th anniversary, Stanley Gibbons Baldwin’s is proud to host The CGC 100 – Pokémon 29th Anniversary Auction, a landmark event for Pokémon Trading Card collectors. The auction will take place on February 28th 2025, at 16:00 GMT at our central London location, 399 Strand.
This special event features 100 carefully curated, high-value Pokémon cards, with over 90 items certified and graded by CGC® (Certified Guaranty Company®)—the gold standard in third-party grading. The collection includes some of the rarest and most coveted cards in the Pokémon universe, ranging from Shadowless 1st Edition Base Set Holos to Gold Star Pokémon and the legendary Shining cards from the Neo sets.
Among the remarkable lots up for bidding are:
A unique offering where each card, including Base Set icons Venusaur, Blastoise, and the ever-popular Charizard, comes with free CGC grading, potentially increasing its future value. These cards, consigned by a former Wizards of the Coast printing manager, are pristine grading candidates and are available for in-person viewing by appointment.
It’s everyone’s favourite fire lizard—Charizard. This EX FireRed & LeafGreen Ultra Rare has been graded Pristine 10 by CGC, achieving a virtually flawless rating with perfect centering, colour, and a perfect scratch free surface. With only seven in existence, this Charizard is a true collector’s gem.
The EX mechanic from 2003–2007 was so iconic it has been revived twice. "EX" stands for extra—extra power, extra moves, and an extraordinary place in the heart of collectors. This Pristine 10 Charizard EX represents the peak of that era and is a must-have for serious collectors. Will you be the one to claim this incredible piece of Pokémon history?
Poliwrath you look so strong—and for good reason! This CGC 10 Shadowless 1st Edition Base Set card is seriously impressive. Authenticated and graded by CGC, it has earned a Gem Mint 10, making it a standout in any collection.
The Original Base Set saw multiple print variations in 1999, but the rarest is the 1st Edition Shadowless. These cards feature the iconic 1st Edition stamp on the left side and a shadowless design, missing the typical “drop shadow” around the art box. This results in a different color palette, giving the card a sun-faded or bleached look. A true relic from Pokémon’s earliest days, this Shadowless 1st Edition Poliwrath is a powerhouse.
While none of these cards are holographic, they are very unique, Exploud is one of few non-holo ex cards. Imakuni? has only appeared twice in the English TCG, but overseas in Japan he has 15 entries, appearing for the first time all the way back in ‘Challenge from the Darkness’, the Japanese equivalent to Gym Challenge all the way back in 1999/2000.
The unique thing about Imakuni? cards? Imakuni? illustrates them all! Imakuni? himself appears in all his artwork, he creates a scenario where he reacts to the Pokemon itself and their environment.
This evolution line has a very unique attribute that the attack doesn’t work unless you whisper in your opponents ear, or WRITE on the card. Whisper in your opponent ear for Whismur, “Write your name” for Loudred and “Write the name of the person you like” for Exploud.
These ‘spoof’ cards, considered so because of Imakuni?’s illustration and inclusion, comes from the very limited Japanese T series promotional cards, spanning over only 15 months and with 24 cards total. T series promotional cards were only available from the Pokémon Card Trainers magazine.
As tough as steel itself, this Registeel ☆ from EX Legend Maker has been graded Pristine 10 by CGC, making it one of only two in existence. Its smooth, metallic shine is perfectly captured in this flawless card, with perfect 50/50 centring, impeccable colour, and totally free of any other imperfections.
Known as "Gold Star" cards, these ultra-rare collectibles feature Pokémon in their Shiny forms, marked by a golden ☆ in their name. With a pull rate of roughly 1 in 72 packs (about one per two booster boxes), they remain one of the most sought-after rarities in the TCG.
Soaring through the skies of Hoenn, this Latias ☆ from EX Deoxys has been graded Gem Mint 10 by CGC, making it one of just four in existence at this level. With its rarity and demand surging in recent years, securing a CGC 10 Gold Star Latias is a true collector’s privilege.
Eeveelutions are always a fan favorite, but these French versions of Espeonand Umbreon are extra rare and stunning! Both cards have been authenticated and graded by CGC with a Gem Mint 10 rating—the highest recorded grade for these cards across anygrading company, and with a population of just 1 at CGC.
The Neo sets—Genesis, Discovery, Revelation, and Destiny—were released in Italian, French, and German, with Genesis also in Spanish. French has the shortest print run, making these French Holos rarer than their European counterparts. The French Neo sets were distributed in France and Quebec, Canada, adding to their rarity.
The very first of many Shiny Charizard cards! Did you know this card showcases Charizard’s original shiny colour scheme? Initially, Shiny Charizard had purple skin and green under-wings, a design that was later changed between Generation 2 and 3 to the black and red wings we know today. This card has been authenticated and graded by CGC, earning a Gem Mint 9, with a total population of 28 at this grade.
Shining Pokémon made their debut in Neo Revelation with Shining Magikarp and Shining Gyarados, introducing Shiny Pokémon to the TCG. These cards feature a unique dark, textured holo pattern over the Pokémon itself, while the background remains non-holo. Over the years, Shiny Pokémon have become a staple of the TCG, appearing in many different forms and rarities. As the first Shiny Charizard, this card holds a special place in Pokémon history!
Big, strong, and shiny! Shining Mewtwo is a legendary example of a stunning 1st Edition card. Authenticated and graded by CGC, it has earned a perfect Gem Mint 10, with only 22 in existence at this grade, making it a truly special piece.
Shining Pokémon made their debut in Neo Revelation with Shining Magikarp and Shining Gyarados, marking the first appearance of Shiny Pokémon in the TCG. These cards feature a unique dark, textured holo pattern over the Pokémon itself, with no holo on the background. Shiny Pokémon have since become a staple of the TCG, appearing in various forms and rarities over the years. Shining Mewtwo remains one of the most iconic, capturing both rarity and beauty in one legendary card!
Now we’re really heating up! This 1st Edition Shining Steelix from Neo Destiny looks fierce in its golden coat and has earned the perfect CGC Pristine 10 grade—a true gem. With a population of only 3, it’s a rare find!
Shining Pokémon first appeared in Neo Revelation with Shining Magikarp and Gyarados, introducing the concept of shiny Pokémon to the TCG. These cards feature a dark, textured holo over the Pokémon, leaving the background un-holoed. Shiny Pokémon continue to be a staple in the TCG, appearing in various rarities and forms over time.
This Pristine 10 Shining Steelix is a true golden example of the beauty and rarity of Shining Pokémon!
Certified Guaranty Company® (CGC®) has revolutionised collectible grading with its commitment to accuracy, impartiality, and quality. With a team of over 50 expert graders and state-of-the-art tamper-evident holders, CGC guarantees authenticity and provides the ultimate protection for trading cards. Cards graded by CGC consistently achieve higher prices, and its Pristine 10 and Gem Mint 10 certifications represent the pinnacle of collectible quality.
Learn more about CGC’s grading process and benefits on their website.
Join us in celebrating 29 years of Pokémon with an auction that promises to be as legendary as the cards it features. Whether you’re hunting for a nostalgic piece of Pokémon history or seeking to expand your high-end collection, this auction has something for everyone.
For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact us via email or via Instagram.
Location: Stanley Gibbons Baldwins 399 Strand, Central London
Date and Time: 28 February 2025, 16:00 GMT
Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Pokémon TCG history. The CGC 100 Auction is a must for collectors, fans, and enthusiasts alike. Visit Stanley Gibbons Baldwins for the full catalogue and additional details.