As the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to grow in popularity, collectors and players alike are always on the lookout for the next big set.
Japan’s Stellar Miracle has made waves since its release on July 19, 2024, not only for its unique artwork and game-changing cards but also for the high prices these cards command on the secondary market.
With the Stellar Crown set launching internationally on September 13th, collectors worldwide are eagerly anticipating what treasures the new cards will bring.
In this article, we’ll dive into the ten most valuable cards from Stellar Miracle, ranked by their average sales price on eBay between July 19 and August 13, 2024.
These are the cards to watch, especially for collectors looking to invest in the most sought-after pieces of the set.
The rise of Stellar Miracle and its impact on the market
Since its release, Stellar Miracle has captivated the Pokémon community, particularly in Japan. As part of the Scarlet and Violet series, this set introduces several rare and powerful Pokémon, including the legendary Terapagos, which plays a central role in the Indigo Disk expansion storyline.
Collectors have been quick to scoop up these new additions, driving prices up on platforms like eBay.
While the Japanese and international markets differ slightly due to pull rates and preferences, Stellar Miracle gives us a clear insight into what cards will be hot in the upcoming Stellar Crown set.
Why Stellar Miracle cards are highly sought after
The appeal of Stellar Miracle lies in its combination of new gameplay mechanics, stunning Special Art Rare (SAR) cards, and the “waifu effect”—a phenomenon where certain Supporter cards featuring popular female characters fetch much higher prices due to fan demand.
With key characters like Lacey and Briar getting exclusive artwork, collectors are willing to pay a premium to acquire these rare cards.
The unique features of Stellar Miracle Pokémon cards
What sets Stellar Miracle apart is its variety of rare cards, including SAR, UR (Ultra Rare), and Stadium cards.
The set also introduces new Terastal-type Pokémon like Terapagos, which play a pivotal role in the Pokémon TCG metagame.
These cards often feature intricate and vibrant artwork, making them highly collectible as pieces of art in addition to their gameplay value.
The international anticipation for Stellar Crown
The international release of Stellar Crown will largely mirror the contents of Stellar Miracle, but with slight variations.
International collectors are particularly eager to see how the pull rates compare, as certain cards abundant in Japan may be much harder to find elsewhere. This adds another layer of intrigue to the market, with many hoping to secure their favorite cards before prices skyrocket.
The 10 most valuable cards from Stellar Miracle
Now, let’s take a closer look at the top 10 most valuable cards from the Stellar Miracle set, ranked by their average price on eBay:
1. Terapagos
The set’s star, Terapagos ex 122, is the third rarest card in the set. Known for its unique Union Beat and Crown Opal attacks, this Colorless Tera Pokémon is not only valuable in gameplay but also a collector’s favorite.
2. Dachsbun
A Special Art Rare (SAR) card, Dachsbun ex, is both powerful and adorable. With its Full Stomach Time ability, this Psychic-type card offers solid gameplay potential, but its playful artwork truly sets it apart. Despite being the least valuable SAR, Dachsbun remains highly sought after.
3. Terapagos
While Ultra Rare (UR) cards like Terapagos ex 133 are technically rarer than SAR cards, they often fetch lower prices. However, this version of Terapagos is a must-have for collectors looking to complete their set.
4. Area Zero Underdepths
This UR Stadium card is essential for players using Tera Pokémon in their decks. With the ability to extend your Bench to 8 Pokémon, it holds great strategic value. Despite this, it’s often overlooked by international collectors, making it a sleeper hit.
5. Galvantula
Galvantula ex is a powerful Stage 1 Lightning Tera Pokémon with Item-lock capabilities, making it a competitive card. Its SAR version features stunning artwork, appealing to both players and collectors.
6. Hydrapple
Hydrapple ex is a game-changer with its Ripening Charge ability, accelerating Grass-type Energy and healing damage. This SAR card has gained popularity among players and collectors alike for its competitive edge and unique design.
7. Lacey
As a Supporter SR card, Lacey has become a highly valuable card thanks to her role in the Indigo Disk expansion and her popularity in the Blueberry League. Her draw power ability makes her essential in gameplay, while her unique artwork appeals to collectors.
8. Briar
Briar SAR is driven by both gameplay functionality and the waifu effect. As a key figure in uncovering the mysteries of Area Zero, Briar’s card is visually stunning and highly coveted.
9. Terapagos
The SAR version of Terapagos ex is the most expensive Pokémon card in the set. Its intricate artwork and powerful gameplay mechanics make it a top-tier collectible.
10. Lacey
Topping the list is SAR Lacey 131/102. This card has become the ultimate chase card in Stellar Miracle, with prices well over $100 due to Lacey’s popularity and the rarity of the SAR version.
What influences the value of Pokémon cards in the Stellar Miracle set?
Several factors influence the value of cards in Stellar Miracle, including rarity, character popularity, and gameplay utility. Additionally, the artwork and the waifu effect drive up prices for certain cards, especially Supporters like Lacey and Briar.
Stellar Miracle vs other Japanese Pokémon sets
Compared to previous Japanese sets, Stellar Miracle stands out for its focus on Legendary Pokémon and its wide array of Special Art Rares (SARs). These cards have driven demand higher, making it a must-have set for serious collectors.
Collecting tips for Pokémon fans outside Japan
For international collectors, securing Stellar Miracle cards can be challenging due to limited availability and high demand. Look for trusted sellers, participate in online auctions, and be patient—you can often snag a great deal by waiting for the right opportunity.
How to care for and preserve valuable Pokémon cards
To maintain the value of your cards, always store them in protective sleeves and hard cases. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat, as this can cause damage. Regularly check your collection for signs of wear, and handle cards with care to preserve their condition.
Final thoughts: The future of Stellar Miracle cards
As the Pokémon TCG continues to grow, it’s likely that the value of Stellar Miracle cards will increase over time, especially for high-rarity cards like Lacey 131/102 and Terapagos ex 130/102.
Collectors should keep an eye on these cards as the market evolves and demand for rare Pokémon cards continues to soar.