Alolan Vulpix (Not a Football Player)
N/A - Pokémon Character · N/A - Water/Ice Type Pokémon
Pokémon TCG - Silver Tempest #034/195
Year & Era
2022 - Sword & Shield Era (Current)
Card Type
VSTAR Ultra Rare
Grade
6.0 - 7.0 (Estimated Excellent/Near-Mint)
Rarity
Ultra Rare (VSTAR rarity tier)
Overall Assessment
This is a Pokémon card, not a football card. Technically it is an Ultra Rare Alolan Vulpix VSTAR from the Silver Tempest set. Due to its current unprotected state and visible edge/corner wear, it holds minimal financial value but remains a nice collectible for a Pokémon enthusiast.
Condition Grade
6.0 - 7.0 (Estimated Excellent/Near-Mint)
Centering Assessment
Front centering appears top-heavy and slightly shifted to the right. Back centering is not visible.
Surface Condition
Visible dust and surface debris from being kept in a non-protected environment; potential light scuffing from direct contact with fabric/surfaces.
Corner Condition
Upper-right and lower-right corners show minor whitening and rounding; lower-left corner shows slight chipping.
Edge Condition
Right edge shows minor silvering and shelf wear; overall rough for a modern card.
Print Quality
Standard modern textured holofoil with rainbow VSTAR highlights; some minor ink saturation issues common to the Sword & Shield era.
Estimated Value
$1.00 - $3.00 USD (Raw condition)
Comparison to Known Examples
This is a standard mass-produced version; most collector-owned copies are held in sleeves and would be in much better condition.
Authentication Tips
Check for the 'fined-lined' texture on the rainbow VSTAR surface; fakes are often smooth or have vertical-only holo patterns. Verify text font and spelling.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading. The cost of grading exceeds the market value of the card.
Red Flags
The card is currently being stored without a sleeve or top loader, which significantly increases the risk of micro-scratching and edge wear.
Provenance Notes
Distributed in Silver Tempest booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, and blister packs starting November 2022.
Historical Context
VSTAR Pokémon cards were introduced in the Sword & Shield era as a gameplay mechanic to replace VMAX cards, featuring a once-per-game 'VSTAR Power' ability.
Market Trends
VSTAR cards are currently stable; however, standard 'non-full art' VSTARS like this one have low growth potential due to high supply.
Investment Potential
Low. This is a common Ultra Rare used primarily for gameplay; for investment, collectors look for the Rainbow or Gold versions of the same character.
Similar Cards
Alolan Vulpix V (Silver Tempest 033/195), Alolan Vulpix VSTAR Full Art (Silver Tempest 197/195).
Display & Preservation
Urgently place in a 'penny sleeve' first and then a 'top loader' or semi-rigid Card Saver to prevent further damage. Store out of direct sunlight.
Interesting Facts
Alolan Vulpix is unique as it is a regional variant from the Alola region (Sun & Moon games), changing its type from Fire to Ice.