What is the difference between base set and base set 2?
As an avid Pokémon TCG collector and fan, few sets hold as much historical weight and collector appeal as the original Base Set from 1999 and its early 2000 follow-up sequel known as Base Set 2. But even hardcore Poké-fans sometimes mix up their Shadowless Charizards from their Crystal ‘Zards! As the definitive Base Set expert, let me break down everything you need to know about Pokémon‘s first two vintage TCG releases:
The Base Set – Pokémon Card Gaming Goes Worldwide
Released in January 1999 in Japan and later June 1999 in North America alongside Pokémon Red & Blue, the Base Set marks the very first Pokémon TCG release. With only 102 total cards focused on Gen 1 Pokémon, it established hall-of-fame powerhouses like Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur, and Pikachu. Almost overnight, Pokémon was a global phenomenon and kids everywhere (myself included) were ripping Base Sets hoping to score that precious 1st Edition Charizard!
Base Set By The Numbers
- 102 total cards
- 16 holo rares including the "big 3" – Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur
- Initial 1st Edition printing featuring special Edition 1 stamp
- Later Unlimited prints without 1st Edition stamp
So in summary, the Base Set is Pokémon TCG‘s small but mighty origin story filled with collector catnip like 1st Edition and beloved early art variants. Even today, packs and boxes can sell for insane amounts – a true grail item for any collector.
Base Set 2 Returns To Capture More Fans
In 2000, with Pokémania still raging strong, Base Set 2 arrived as a follow-up compilation made to meet fan demand and offer reprinted Base Set heavy hitters alongside some new additions totalling 130 cards.
Base Set 2 Breakdown
- 130 cards – Reprints popular Base Set cards + ~25 new additions
- No 1st Edition – Exclusively Unlimited print runs
- Thicker card borders with prominent shadows
- New stylized "2" set symbol instead of Poké Ball
While more plentiful as an unlimited reprint set, Base Set 2 successfully delivered classics like Charizard back to hobby shops and big box retailers. Even high profile additions like the Crystal Type Charizard kept fans buzzing. And for new collectors at the time, Base Set 2 provided an accessible entry point to start collecting.
Comparing Key Cards & Modern Day Values
When examining individual card prices, Base Sets tend to command far greater respect and value on the secondary market compared to their Base Set 2 counterparts. Let‘s take a closer look:
1st Edition Shadowless Base Set Charizard PSA 10 vs Base Set 2 Charizard PSA 10
| Card | PSA 10 Value |
|---|---|
| Base Set Charizard | $350,000+ |
| Base Set 2 Charizard | $700 |
It‘s pricing differentials like this that showcase the disparity between Base Set originals and Base Set 2 reprints. While both awesome cards, its easy to see why collectors go crazy for early print runs!
In closing, I hope this side-by-side guide clears up some of the major differences between Pokémon‘s first two card releases. Personally, I‘ll always chase rare 1st Edition presses over more common reprints. But no matter which Charizard you prefer, just remember… Gotta Collect ‘Em All!
