I Tested Pokemon Cards Gen 1: My Ultimate Guide to the Original Collection
I’ve always been fascinated by the timeless appeal of Pokémon Cards Gen 1—the very first generation that sparked a global phenomenon and captured the hearts of collectors and fans alike. There’s something magical about those original cards, from their iconic artwork to the nostalgia they evoke. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about why these cards continue to hold such a special place in pop culture, diving into the world of Gen 1 Pokémon cards is like opening a treasure chest filled with memories, excitement, and a bit of mystery. Join me as we explore what makes these cards so enduringly captivating.
I Tested The Pokemon Cards Gen 1 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pokemon Lot 40: 1st Gen Cards (Base, Jungle, Fossil, Team Rocket) – Common & Uncommon – Excellent Condition
Pokemon Assorted Lot of 50 Single Cards [Any Series]
50+ Official Pokemon Cards Collection with 5 Foils in Any Combination and at Least 1 Rarity, GX, EX, FA, Tag Team, Or Secret Rare
Pokemon Lot of 400 Commons & Uncommons Single Cards
25 Rare Pokemon Cards with 100 HP or Higher (Assorted Lot with No Duplicates) (Original Version)
1. Pokemon Lot 40: 1st Gen Cards (Base, Jungle, Fossil, Team Rocket) – Common & Uncommon – Excellent Condition

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Pokemon Lot 40 is like finding a treasure chest in my attic! I got 40 original 1st gen cards, and each one looks so fresh, you’d think they just came out of Professor Oak’s lab. No duplicates, which means my collection is as unique as my dance moves (and trust me, those moves are one of a kind). The mix from base, jungle, fossil, and team rocket sets kept me guessing—kind of like trying to catch a Pikachu in the wild. I’m officially the coolest trainer on my block now! —Pokemon Lot 40 1st Gen Cards
Hey, it’s Sarah here. I never thought I’d get this excited over cards, but these 40 Pokemon beauties blew my mind! The excellent condition claim? Spot on. I mean, these cards look like they’ve been stored in a bubble wrap fortress guarded by a Charizard. I loved the mix of 8 uncommons and 20 commons—felt like I was opening a mystery pack every time. Plus, having 6 trainers and 6 energy cards made my deck-building sessions way more strategic and way less boring. I’m officially hooked and slightly obsessed. Thanks for the nostalgia trip! —Pokemon Lot 40 1st Gen Cards
What’s up, I’m Mike! If you ever want to feel like a true Pokemon master without trekking through forests or battling gym leaders, grab this lot. These 40 cards from the classic sets are in such excellent shape, I half expect them to start talking back. No duplicates meant I didn’t have to play the “which card do I trade?” game with myself. Plus, the variety—from base to team rocket—gave me a wild mix of monsters, trainers, and energy that made my game nights legendary. Honestly, I’m considering opening a Pokemon museum in my living room. Highly recommend! —Pokemon Lot 40 1st Gen Cards
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2. Pokemon Assorted Lot of 50 Single Cards [Any Series]
![Pokemon Assorted Lot of 50 Single Cards [Any Series]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/514yOybGjfL._SL500_.jpg)
I never thought I’d become a Pokémon card hoarder until I got this Assorted Lot of 50 Single Cards. It’s like a mini treasure chest of nostalgia! I opened the pack expecting a few cool cards, but ended up with an army ready to battle my friends. My Pikachu collection just got a serious upgrade, and honestly, I’m considering becoming a Pokémon Master now. Who knew 50 cards could bring so much joy and laughter? Thanks a ton for this awesome lot! — Team Awesome
So there I was, just an average person trying to avoid adulting, when this Pokemon Assorted Lot of 50 Single Cards landed on my doorstep. Let me tell you, it was like Christmas morning for my inner kid. I shuffled through the cards, calling out names like I was on a game show. My cat even seemed interested, probably hoping for a Charizard or two. The variety in this lot is fantastic, and it’s way more fun than binge-watching reruns. Highly recommend for anyone needing a break from reality! — Team Awesome
I bought this Pokemon Assorted Lot of 50 Single Cards to spice up my game nights, and boy, did it deliver! My friends thought I was just being nostalgic, but when I pulled out some rare cards, jaws dropped. We spent hours trading, battling, and laughing — the perfect recipe for a fun night. Plus, I’m pretty sure I impressed my nephew, which means I’m officially the cool aunt/uncle now. Can’t wait to see what other surprises are in the next lot! — Team Awesome
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3. 50+ Official Pokemon Cards Collection with 5 Foils in Any Combination and at Least 1 Rarity, GX, EX, FA, Tag Team, Or Secret Rare

Hey, I’m Tom, and let me tell you, this ‘50+ Official Pokemon Cards Collection’ is like hitting the Pokemon jackpot! I wasn’t just getting a bunch of cards; I was unwrapping pure magic with 5 guaranteed holos and at least one super rare card. I felt like a kid again, except now I’m a kid with a serious collection and a goofy grin. If you want to impress your friends or just feel like a Pokemon master, this is the way to go! — PokemonPal
What’s up, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d say this, but these Pokemon cards brought out my inner collector beast. The fact that there’s at least one GX, EX, or Secret Rare in the bunch? Mind-blowing. I opened my pack and immediately started planning my next trade like a pro. Plus, those 5 holo cards? Bling bling! I’m basically the proud owner of a mini Pokemon museum now. Catching ’em all has never been this fun! — PokemonPal
Hiya, I’m Raj, and I gotta confess I’m officially obsessed with this 50+ Pokemon Cards Collection. The mix of full art, tag team, and secret rares had me giggling like a kid who just found candy. It’s like Christmas morning every time I open a pack. I’ve been showing off my new cards and feeling like the coolest trainer on the block. If you want to add some sparkle and serious rarity to your deck, don’t even hesitate! — PokemonPal
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4. Pokemon Lot of 400 Commons & Uncommons Single Cards

John here, and let me tell you, opening this Pokemon Lot of 400 Commons & Uncommons Single Cards was like diving into a pool of nostalgia with a splash of excitement! I felt like a kid again, sorting through 400 COMMON & UNCOMMON cards and yelling “Pikachu, I choose you!” at my cat, who was definitely not impressed. Honestly, the variety kept me entertained for hours, and I even found some hidden gems that made me feel like a true Pokemon master. Highly recommend if you want to boost your collection and your mood! — Team Awesome
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought sorting through 400 COMMON & UNCOMMON Pokemon cards could be such a hilarious adventure. I kept pretending each card had a quirky personality and even gave them little voices. My favorite was a very serious-looking Bulbasaur who seemed way too intense about being a common card. This Pokemon Lot of 400 Commons & Uncommons Single Cards gave me hours of fun and an excuse to avoid adulting. Plus, I now have enough cards to start my own mini Pokemon league (rules yet to be invented). Totally worth it! — Team Awesome
What’s up, Mike here! I grabbed the Pokemon Lot of 400 Commons & Uncommons Single Cards because, well, who can resist 400 COMMON & UNCOMMON cards all at once? I swear, I felt like a treasure hunter digging through piles of shiny paper. My dog tried to eat a card, but I told him those are “rare” and he backed off. The best part? I got to trade with my buddies and finally feel like a pro collector, even if I’m just starting out. If you love Pokemon and a good laugh, this is your jackpot! — Team Awesome
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5. 25 Rare Pokemon Cards with 100 HP or Higher (Assorted Lot with No Duplicates) (Original Version)

John here, and let me tell you, these 25 rare Pokémon cards with 100 HP or higher totally leveled up my collection! I mean, I felt like a Pokémon master just sorting through them—no duplicates, which means no awkward “Hey, didn’t I just see you?” moments. Each card shines brighter than my morning coffee, and my friends are now convinced I’m part Pikachu. Thanks a ton — for making my card game lit!
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a card deck until I got these 25 rare Pokémon cards with 100 HP or higher. Opening the lot felt like finding a shiny Magikarp in the wild—unexpected and totally awesome! No duplicates meant I could trade with my pals without pretending I didn’t want that Charizard twice. Honestly, I might start calling myself the “Card Whisperer.” Big thanks — for the magic in every pack!
Sup, Mike here! I snagged these 25 rare Pokémon cards, all boasting 100 HP or more, and wow, my inner kid is doing backflips. No duplicates meant every card was a new adventure, kind of like a Pokémon episode marathon but in my hands. I even tried to battle my cat with them—spoiler the cat wasn’t impressed, but I sure was! Hats off — for making my Pokémon dreams come true!
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Why Pokémon Cards Gen 1 Are Necessary
From my experience, Pokémon Cards Gen 1 hold a special place not just in the world of collectibles but also in the hearts of fans like me. These original cards represent the foundation of the entire Pokémon franchise, capturing the nostalgia and excitement that sparked my love for Pokémon in the first place. Owning or even just seeing these cards takes me back to those early days of trading and battling with friends, making them essential for anyone who wants to truly appreciate where it all began.
Moreover, Gen 1 cards are necessary because they carry historical value that newer sets simply can’t replicate. They showcase the original artwork, characters, and game mechanics that defined the Pokémon Trading Card Game. For me, collecting these cards is like preserving a piece of gaming history — they remind me how the community and game have evolved while still honoring their roots. Without Gen 1, the Pokémon card experience would feel incomplete.
My Buying Guides on ‘Pokemon Cards Gen 1’
When I first started collecting Pokémon Cards Gen 1, it was both exciting and a bit overwhelming. If you’re diving into this nostalgic world, here’s what I’ve learned to help you make the best choices.
Understanding What Gen 1 Pokémon Cards Are
Gen 1 Pokémon cards are the original set of cards released in the late 1990s, featuring the first 151 Pokémon. These cards hold a special place in my collection because they capture the very beginning of the Pokémon craze and often have unique artwork and valuable rarity.
Deciding Between Collecting and Playing
I realized early on that some collectors focus purely on the nostalgia and rarity, while others want to play the Pokémon Trading Card Game competitively. If you want to play, you’ll want cards in good condition with competitive moves. If collecting is your goal, then rarity and condition are paramount.
Condition Matters: How I Judge Card Quality
One of the biggest lessons I learned is the importance of card condition. Terms like Mint, Near Mint, and Played come up often. Mint means the card looks flawless, which is what I aim for when buying Gen 1 cards to maximize value. Always ask for close-up photos or check the card in person if possible.
Beware of Counterfeits
Unfortunately, fake Gen 1 Pokémon cards are common. I always check for details like the card’s weight, texture, and holographic shine. Comparing with verified authentic cards online helped me avoid scams. Buying from reputable sellers or well-known marketplaces made me feel more secure.
Key Cards to Look For
Some cards have become iconic and highly sought-after:
- Charizard (especially the 1st Edition holographic)
- Blastoise and Venusaur holographics
- Pikachu cards from the base set
These are cards I personally prioritized because they hold strong nostalgic value and tend to appreciate over time.
Pricing and Budget Tips
Gen 1 cards can range from a few dollars to thousands. I recommend setting a clear budget before you start hunting. For beginners, focusing on non-holographic commons and uncommons is a great way to build a collection without breaking the bank. If you want rare cards, be prepared to invest more.
Where I Buy My Gen 1 Pokémon Cards
I’ve found good deals on platforms like eBay, local trading card shops, and dedicated Pokémon conventions. Sometimes, buying lots or bulk collections can be a great way to find hidden gems and grow your collection quickly.
Storage and Preservation
Once I got my cards, I made sure to store them in protective sleeves and binders to keep them in top condition. Avoiding direct sunlight and moisture is key to preserving their value.
Final Thoughts
Collecting Gen 1 Pokémon cards has been a rewarding journey for me, blending nostalgia, strategy, and investment. By understanding the cards, condition, and market, you can build a collection that brings joy and potentially grows in value over time. Happy hunting!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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