Topps Pokemon cards – everything you need to know

Topps is a well-known name in the trading card industry, having produced a variety of popular sports and entertainment cards since the 1950s. In the early 2000s, Topps also produced a series of Pokemon trading cards that have since become sought-after by collectors. These cards are distinct from the official Pokemon Trading Card Game produced by Nintendo and Wizards of the Coast, and have their own unique features and designs.

Topps Pokemon cards were first introduced in 1999, shortly after the release of the Pokemon anime series in the United States. The initial set (Pokemon TV Animation Edition) exists of 76 cards displaying Pokemon, 10 Pop-up cards and 13 Scene cards featured images from the first season of the anime and included both English and Japanese versions of the cards. The cards were distributed in various ways, including in packs sold at retail stores and through special promotions with fast food chains like Burger King and KFC. One of the most sought-after Topps Pokemon cards is the “Ash Ketchum” card, which was included in the TV Animation Edition set. This card features a full-foil design with an image of Ash holding Pikachu, and is highly prized by collectors.

One notable feature of Topps Pokemon cards is their oversized design. Unlike traditional trading cards, which are typically 2.5 x 3.5 inches, Topps Pokemon cards measure a whopping 3.75 x 5 inches. This larger size allows for more detailed artwork and makes the cards stand out in a collection. The oversized format was used for several subsequent Topps Pokemon sets as well.

Another unique feature of Topps Pokemon cards is the inclusion of “foils.” Foil cards are made with a special printing process that gives them a shiny, reflective surface. Many Topps Pokemon cards feature foil elements, including full-foil designs that cover the entire card. Some cards also have holographic effects or other special embellishments.

Topps produced a total of eleven different Pokemon card sets between 1999 and 2002. In addition to the initial TV Animation Edition set, there were also sets based on the second and third seasons of the anime, a set focused on the Pokemon movie, and two sets that included cards from various seasons of the show. Each set had its own unique designs and included a mix of character cards, episode summaries, and other special features. Curious? We collected all the Topps cards ever produced on our site. See an overview of all the Topps sets below:

Conclusion

Overall, Topps Pokemon cards offer a unique and collectible addition to any Pokemon fan’s collection. With their oversized format, foil designs, and focus on the anime series, these cards provide a different perspective on the world of Pokemon. While they may not have the same gameplay value as the official Pokemon Trading Card Game, they are still highly sought-after by collectors and fans of the franchise.

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