ThePokemon TCGfeatures cards in many languages, with English and Japanese leading the pack as the two most popular languages to collect. In English,Crown Zenith is full of valuable cards,while its Japanese counterpart, VSTAR Universe, features high prices and includes cards that aren’t as expensive in English.
While there are some notable newcomers among the most expensive VSTAR Universe chase cards, most of the valuable legendary Pokemon appear in both the English and Japanese top spots. However, Pikachu’s popularity in Japan far exceeds other regions, so it’s no surprise to see the series' mascot appear with a unique Art Rare.
Cards are ordered according to their Market Prices onTCGplayer.
Any cards without a Market Price are not included. Japanese cards only have a limited price history on TCGplayer.
8Cynthia’s Ambition (Special Art Rare) – $31.01
A Quiet Moment
This stunning Cynthia Special Art Rare stands out asone of the most valuable Cynthia cardsthat continues to rise in value. While this card’s Crown Zenith counterpart remained underrated for too long, selling for less than ten dollars, Cynthia is now getting the respect she deserves in both English and Japanese.
Cynthia’s Ambition starts with a solid baseline for the most valuable cards in VSTAR Universe, and she seems destined to continue rising in price to catch up to the next card on this list. Cynthia’s Ambition stands out asthe most valuable trainer cardin this set.
7Charizard VSTAR (Special Art Rare) – $43.86
The First Perspective
Charizard is arguably the most famous name in Pokemon alongside Pikachu, but this depiction of the classic Fire-type starter stands out as one half of a two-part card combination. Here, we enjoy the view of an explosive battle between Mewtwo and Charizard from the latter’s point of view, but there’s still more to see from the other side.
VSTAR Universe might not come packed with the best Charizard chase cardsto collect, but this one Special Art Rare makes a major statement, announcing itself as one of the most beautiful cards in VSTAR Universe.
6Origin Forme Palkia VSTAR (Ultra Rare) – $48.58
Leading The Charge
Origin Forme Palkia VSTAR perks up with an impressive value that eclipses Charizard VSTAR by a relatively slim margin, but this epic depiction earns every extra dollar. While Charizard’s scene is undoubtedly gorgeous and detailed, Palkia VSTAR’s epic backdrop gives it an equally intense vibe.
Even though the Origin Forme designs caused major pushback from those who prefer the original designs, this version seems to be growing in TCG popularity, as it has already eclipsed Charizard’s best card in VSTAR Universe, which is no small feat.
Unfortunately, while TCGplayer’s Japanese card price history is relatively brief, this card’s downward trend is obvious, as it peaked closer to $55 before tumbling down to the current market price. While its value isn’t a far cry from its all-time high, this card’s price journey is at a turning point.
5Mewtwo VSTAR (Special Art Rare) – $49.42
The Other Side Of The Fight
Next, we get a look at things from Charizard’s opponent, Mewtwo, as this Mewtwo VSTAR features the titular Pokemon charging up a powerful attack to hurl at Charizard. It’s not clear what move Mewtwo is using, but one thing is obvious: this Pokemon’s incredible raw strength is on display for all to see.
Mewtwo’s price chart features an immensely positive trajectory, which indicates that this card’s value might still rise further. While there’s no telling where this card’s price will eventually settle, it seems likely to be hitting a sweet spot where it might remain.
4Origin Forme Dialga VSTAR (Ultra Rare) – $56.71
Mind The Gap
The second Origin Forme entry is Dialga, who eclipses Palkia’s value by a solid margin. While both Pokemon are within ten dollars of each other, there’s a clear favorite between the two, even though each card features nearly identical depictions of each Pokemon.
Given the otherwise even footing shared between these cards, it’s clear that Dialga’s popularity makes it more desirable when all else is equal. However, despite sticking its head in front of its twin, Palkia, there’s another member of the creation trio still to come, and a fourth legendary Pokemon with a more valuable card.
3Arceus VSTAR (Ultra Rare) – $84.32
The Apex Of Creation
That fourth legendary is Arceus, the god of all Pokemon, who stands tall at the tip of a peak in this stunningly regal depiction. Although the backgrounds of each VSTAR Legendary Pokemon thus far are nearly identical in color, the shading and use of shadows and light give these cards a gritty quality.
Arceus is likely to maintain its lead over Dialga, but it will take incredible luck and support to surpass the next valuable VSTAR Universe card.
2Pikachu (Art Rare) – $99.63
Pushing The Limits
There are plenty of options when it comes tosets that feature beautiful Pikachu cards,but few Pikachu depictions can compare to the calm yet whimsical moment depicted here. Pikachu pops as the clear star of the show, but the background does some heavy lifting with its array of beautiful details.
Although Pikachu loses out on the top spot, this card’s value barely dipped below the $100 mark after a strong run above it, leaving hope that Pikachu’s eventual rebound will come.
1Giratina VSTAR (Ultra Rare) – $129.11
The Dark Lord Rises
However, Giratina VSTAR stands out as the most expensive VSTAR Universe card, thanks to the incredible amount of detail etched into the shadows. Giratina completes the creation trio that begins with Dialga and Palkia, but this member boasts a value that exceeds the combined value of its peers.
While it’s difficult to appreciate the level of nuance in this scene through a screen, in person, this card stands out as one of the most breathtaking examples of Giratina’s shadowy personality.
