Zapdos is one of the most famous figures in thePokemon TCG, as this original Kantonian Pokemon is part of the first legendary trio released, forming an impressive triumvirate with Moltres and Articuno. Zapdos shares several mutual appearances in sets withthe most valuable Moltres cards; however, Zapdos' FireRed & LeafGreen card hasn’t established a solid market price with NM sales to be included.
Aside from a missing link, Zapdos' best cards hail from some ofthe most expensive Pokemon TCG sets in history,with all-time greats like the Base Set, Aquapolis, and Supreme Victors to look forward to. Whether you’re looking for classic Zapdos imagery or prefer some unusual interpretations of this Electric bird, Zapdos boasts a variety of diverse card art to collect.
Cards are ordered according to theirTCGPlayerMarket Price,which you might pay on average for a copy of the(first edition, where applicable)cards below.
Given the age and rarity of these cards,onlythose with anestablished market price on TCGplayerare included.
However,sale prices differ depending on the card’s condition,so this market price is just a rough idea of the card’s value.
6Zapdos: Fossil First Edition (Holo Rare) – $68.82
Unearthing A Rare Relic
Zapdos isone of the most expensive cards in Fossil,as this Pokemon received its second printing in this style, though the original isn’t an exact one-to-one.
This card is similar in appearance to another Zapdos art still to come, but take a close look at Zapdos' depth (how far away it is) and you’ll spot the key difference.
While unlimited copies of this card are fairly inexpensive, you’ll need to spend at least $15 on a damaged first edition copy, with heavily played(HP)cards ranging from $18 to $31. If the condition is an important factor in your purchase, you may want to opt for cards in moderately played(MP)condition, which will start at around $34. For the best copies, lightly played(LP)cards command prices in the $50 range, while near-mint(NM)cards max out around $73.
5Zapdos: Supreme Victors (Secret Rare) – $102.43
Glittering In Gold
The Supreme Victors Zapdos has a legitimate case for the most eye-catching Zapdos art ever, as this vibrant golden depiction of this Electric-type birdprovides the perfect burst of color to make this card pop.
The explosion of glimmering patterns in the Cosmos holo gives this card a stunning appearance, unlike any other Zapdos.
Fortunately, you won’t have to take out a loan to buy this card if you’re okay with one in damaged condition, considering it would only cost $20. However, nicer cards cost a bit more, with HP jumping to $27, while an MP copy surged to $71. If you’d prefer the best, LP cards will run you roughly $80, followed lastly byNM copies hovering around $100.
4Zapdos: Aquapolis (Holo Rare) – $110.00
An Electrifying Spectacle
Aquapolis is one of the most iconic Pokemon sets, boasting valuable cardsand a collection of gorgeous artwork that few other sets can equal. This Zapdos is deserving of high praise, with such a violent and explosive scene unfolding as Zapdos unleashes its power.
Finding any copy of this card will prove to be a challenge, though there are sales that cover a range of conditions. At the bottom, MP copies of this card can go for about $65, while you can expect to play close to $100 for an LP card. Lastly,NMcards carry a costly premiumto the tune of $110.
3Rocket’s Zapdos: Gym Challenge First Edition (Holo Rare) – $152.65
Into The Darkness
This depiction ofRocket’s Zapdos delves into the dark undertones associated with Team Rocket,manifesting them visually with a cloudy night sky, and a storm brewing behind Zapdos. The Electric-type legendary unleashes a lightning bolt from its wings, capturing this majestic moment with crackling electrical energy.
Whilethe most valuable Gym Challenge cardsprimarily focus on Gym Leaders paired with their favorite Pokemon, even Team Rocket wants a piece of the action.
The first edition copies of this card all soared into the triple digits, with LP cards representing the worst condition of sold cards at $114. NM copies jump well above this figure, hitting heights between $143 and $183 to solidly confirm the card’s current market price. While there are plenty ofmarket prices that can shift with a few sales,this card has established a solid value for the time being.
2Rocket’s Zapdos Ex: Team Rocket Returns (Ultra Rare) – $222.60
A Return To Rocket
Continuing the Team Rocket Trend,Rocket’s Zapdos ex is an upgradeto its version from Gym Challenge in almost every way, though the Pokemon gets lost in the darkness of this card. Lighting aside, there’s still a great deal of gorgeous detailing on Zapdos' wings,making this card more appealing upon a second look.
Unlike the previous Rocket’s Zapdos,this card does not have a well-established market priceon TCGplayer, as a single NM sale skyrocketed to $222.60 after two damaged cards sold for $59.99 and $33.88, respectively. A single LP sale exceeded the NM price, clocking in at $239.99, leaving several questions as to where this card’s value may settle.
1Zapdos: Base Set First Edition (Holo Rare) – $899.99
Back To The Beginning
Speaking of questions, you may be wondering how this Zapdos essentially quadruples the price of its closest competitor. Aside from the incredible art and iconic status of the Base Set, this first edition Zapdos holo is difficult to find inNM condition, which is what helped set the sky-high price tag.
The most expensive Base Set cardssoar to incredible heights in first edition, with Zapdos selling for $179.99 in damaged condition and $202.85 in HP. Moving up the ladder, expect to pay $310+ for an LP copy, whilea lone NM sale at $899.99is our sole reference point until another card changes hands.
