Pokémon

Gyarados

Water/Flying Type Base Set Rookie Year: 1999 First appeared in the Pokémon Red and Blue video games in 1996 (Japan) and 1998 (USA). Its rookie card is from the 1999 Pokémon TCG Base Set.

About Gyarados

Gyarados's journey from the pathetically weak Magikarp to a raging sea serpent is a classic underdog story within the Pokémon universe. This incredible transformation, triggered at level 20, is not just a physical one; it's said that the process is so traumatic that it permanently alters its brain chemistry, leading to its notoriously violent and destructive behavior. In the lore, Gyarados are known to go on month-long rampages, destroying everything in their path, a fact that has earned them the title 'the Atrocious Pokémon' and has led to them being feared as deities of destruction in some cultures.

For collectors, Gyarados represents a piece of Pokémon history. As one of the original 151 Pokémon, its 1999 Base Set holographic card is a true rookie card and a centerpiece for any vintage collection. The striking artwork by Mitsuhiro Arita, capturing its raw power as it emerges from the water, is one of the most recognizable images in the TCG. Beyond its original card, Gyarados has been featured in dozens of sets, with special versions like the coveted Shining Gyarados from Neo Revelation and various powerful EX, GX, and VMAX cards, making it a popular Pokémon to collect across all eras of the TCG.

Career Stats

Type: Water/Flying | Mega-Evolved Type: Water/Dark | Abilities: Intimidate, Moxie (Hidden) | Base Set Card: #6/102 | Pokedex Entry (Red/Blue): 'Rarely seen in the wild. Huge and vicious, it is capable of destroying entire cities in a rage.'

Career Highlights

  • Iconic evolution from Magikarp
  • One of the original 151 Pokémon
  • Featured in dozens of TCG sets since 1999
  • Possesses a powerful Mega Evolution
  • Star of the 'Lake of Rage' event in Pokémon Gold and Silver
  • Known for its signature move, Hyper Beam

Market Insight

The market for high-grade 1999 Base Set Gyarados cards remains strong, with PSA 9 and 10 examples fetching premium prices. While not as expensive as Charizard, it is a blue-chip vintage Pokémon card. Recent sales show a steady interest in both raw and graded copies, indicating a stable and healthy market for this iconic Pokémon.

Collecting Tips

- Focus on the 1999 Base Set holographic card (6/102) as the quintessential Gyarados rookie card; look for 1st Edition and Shadowless versions for higher value.

- Seek out graded copies from PSA or BGS to ensure authenticity and condition, which significantly impacts the card's value.

- Explore variations like the 'Shining Gyarados' from the Neo Revelation set, which features a unique red color scheme and is highly sought after by collectors.

- Don't overlook non-holographic and international versions of early Gyarados cards, which can be more affordable entry points into collecting this iconic Pokémon.

Fun Facts

  • 1Gyarados's design is based on a Chinese legend about a carp that leaps over a mythical Dragon Gate, transforming into a dragon.
  • 2Despite its draconic appearance, Gyarados is a Water/Flying type, not a Dragon type, making it quadruply weak to Electric-type attacks.
  • 3A shiny Gyarados is red, and it was the first shiny Pokémon that players could encounter in the main series games, at the Lake of Rage in Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal.
  • 4The Pokedex states that Gyarados's fangs can crush stones and its scales are harder than steel.
  • 5Female Gyarados have white barbels (whiskers), while males have blue ones.

Gyarados Card Values

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much are Gyarados cards worth?

Gyarados card values vary widely based on the specific card, condition, and rarity. Use Collectors Edge AI to check the current market value of any Gyarados card instantly using real eBay sold data.

What is the most valuable Gyarados card?

The most valuable Gyarados cards are typically rookie cards in high grade (PSA 9-10) condition.

Should I get my Gyarados card graded?

If your Gyarados card is worth $50 or more in raw condition, grading may significantly increase its value. Use our AI Grade Estimator to check your card's condition before submitting for grading.