💡 One of the most iconic cards in Pokémon TCG history — Alakazam, Base Set card #1. Rare Holo rarity with a market price of approximately $84 (holofoil) as of June 2026. Featuring the legendary Damage Swap power and original Ken Sugimori artwork.
Card Details
Card Name: Alakazam
Set: Base Set (Released January 1999)
Card Number: 1/102
Rarity: Rare Holo (Holographic)
Type: Psychic
HP: 80
Illustrator: Ken Sugimori (Official Pokémon Designer)
Card Stats & Features
Pokémon Power: Damage Swap
You may move 1 damage counter from one of your Pokémon to another as often as you like during your turn. This power cannot be used to knock out a Pokémon. Damage Swap was one of the most powerful Pokémon Powers in the Base Set era. When combined with Chansey's high HP (120), players could absorb damage onto Chansey and then use the Pokémon Center Trainer card to heal all damage at once. The 'Damage Swap deck' was a defining strategy in early competitive Pokémon TCG.
Attack: Confuse Ray
Costs 3 Psychic Energy for 30 damage. Flip a coin — if heads, the Defending Pokémon is now Confused. While the attack itself is modest, Alakazam's true value lies in its Damage Swap power used from the bench.
Weakness & Retreat Cost
Weakness: Psychic ×2
Retreat Cost: 3 Energy (high, but usually operated from the bench in Damage Swap decks)
Market Price & Where to Buy
As of June 2026 on TCGPlayer, the Base Set Alakazam Holofoil (Unlimited) has a market price of approximately $84.24. Prices vary significantly based on condition, with PSA 10 graded copies commanding hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Note: The above price information is for reference only and does not constitute investment advice. Card prices fluctuate based on market conditions.
You can purchase this card on platforms like TCGPlayer, eBay, and CardMarket. The 1999 first print (Shadowless, 1st Edition) commands significantly higher prices than the standard Unlimited version, so always verify the print run before purchasing.
Why This Card Is Famous
Alakazam holds a unique place in Pokémon TCG history. As card number 1 in the Base Set, it is literally the first card alphabetically in the very first Pokémon TCG set released in English. The symbolism of being card #1 in the set that launched the global Pokémon card phenomenon gives it special significance among collectors.
Ken Sugimori's original illustration captures the authentic style of Pokémon's official designer, making it especially prized by collectors. The Pokédex entry boasting an IQ of 5,000 remains one of the most memorable flavor texts in Pokémon history.
In competitive play, the Damage Swap power defined one of the key strategies in the Base Set metagame. The Damage Swap deck, pairing Alakazam with Chansey and Pokémon Center, was a dominant force in early Pokémon TCG tournaments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How much is a Base Set Alakazam worth?
A. As of June 2026 on TCGPlayer, the Base Set Alakazam Holofoil (Unlimited) is valued at approximately $84. 1st Edition copies sell for significantly more, and Shadowless versions also carry a premium. PSA 10 graded copies have sold for thousands of dollars.
Q. Where can I buy this card?
A. You can purchase it on TCGPlayer, eBay, or CardMarket. For high-value cards like this, it's recommended to buy PSA or BGS graded copies to ensure authenticity and accurate condition assessment.
Q. Is it worth getting PSA graded?
A. Absolutely. As the #1 card in the Base Set, Alakazam has exceptional grading value. Cards in good condition can see significant price increases after grading. PSA 9+ copies command substantial premiums over ungraded cards, and PSA 10 is extremely rare and valuable.
Q. How does the Damage Swap power work?
A. During your turn, you may move 1 damage counter at a time between your Pokémon, as many times as you like. However, you cannot use this power to knock out a Pokémon. The classic strategy is to move damage onto a high-HP Chansey, then heal everything with Pokémon Center. Alakazam is typically kept on the bench, using only its power.
Card images and data are copyrighted by Nintendo / Creatures / GAME FREAK / The Pokémon Company.