Blastoise (Pokémon - Misidentified as football player)
Stage 2 Pokémon / Defensive Heavyweight (Non-football) · Kanto (Non-NFL team)
Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) Expedition Base Set #37/165
Year & Era
2002 — WOTC e-Reader Era
Card Type
Reverse Holofoil with Gold Signature
Grade
2-3 (Good/Very Good estimated)
Rarity
Single-copy unique due to aftermarket signature; base card is Uncommon.
Overall Assessment
A heavily used 2002 Pokémon card that has been mistakenly identified as a football card.
Condition Grade
2-3 (Good/Very Good estimated)
Centering Assessment
Generally decent for the era, approximately 50/50 visual front centering.
Surface Condition
Significant surface wear, scratches, and a prominent gold marker signature across the face.
Corner Condition
Heavy whitening and rounding visible on all corners, particularly the right side.
Edge Condition
Significant chipping and wear along the right-hand yellow border.
Print Quality
Standard 2002 WOTC quality; features 'e-Reader' dot code technology on bottom and left.
Estimated Value
$50 - $150 (Varies heavily by autograph authentication)
Comparison to Known Examples
Poor condition compared to mint copies; autograph adds unique but subjective value.
Authentication Tips
Verify the Dot-Code on the left and bottom; check for the 'e-Series' logo at bottom left.
Grading Recommendation
PSA or Beckett for 'Dual Service' (Authentication of card and autograph).
Red Flags
Autograph is unverified; signature likely obscures actual card surface defects.
Provenance Notes
Originally distributed in Expedition Base Set booster packs (~2002).
Historical Context
The Expedition set introduced the e-Reader era, a transitional period for the TCG.
Market Trends
WOTC-era e-Reader cards have seen consistent appreciation as vintage collectibles.
Investment Potential
Moderate for niche signature collectors; low for pure card condition enthusiasts.
Similar Cards
Expedition Charizard, Expedition Venusaur, Aquapolis and Skyridge series cards.
Display & Preservation
Semi-rigid card saver or magnetic one-touch to protect the marker ink from smearing.
Interesting Facts
This card was scannable via the Nintendo Game Boy Advance e-Reader peripheral.