Market outlook
Stable Outlook 7/10
Prices have shown continued collector support, but modern supply and re-submissions create some ceiling pressure. Charizard demand keeps the card liquid and resilient, especially in higher grades.
Next months. Likely to remain relatively stable with normal volatility around major market attention and graded copy availability.
Long term. Expected to hold collector value well over 1-3 years, with the strongest performance likely in high-grade copies and well-centered examples.
History
Charizard is one of the most iconic Pokémon, originally introduced in the first-generation Pokémon games and anime as the final evolution of Charmander. It is a Fire-type symbol of power and rarity, and in modern TCG eras it is frequently used as a headline chase card because Charizard variants consistently attract strong collector and player demand.
This Charizard ex card was first released in the English Obsidian Flames expansion on August 11, 2023, as card 223/197 in the Scarlet & Violet series.[1][3][12]
- It is a Special Illustration Rare, numbered beyond the main set list at 223/197.[1][12]
- The card features Charizard ex as a Tera Darkness-type Stage 2 Pokémon with 330 HP and the attack Burning Darkness.[1][12]
- It is the main chase card of Obsidian Flames and is commonly cited as a centerpiece collectible for the set.[5][7]
Rarity and print run
- Tier
- Secret Rare
- Print run
- High
- First printed in
- Obsidian Flames
- Demand
- Very High
- Supply
- Medium
- It is the set’s top chase Charizard and a Special Illustration Rare.[1][5][7]
- It appears beyond the numbered base set at 223/197, which signals premium rarity.[1][12]
- Charizard cards have persistent collector demand across eras, amplifying scarcity pressure in top grades.
Collector notes
Condition. Check for whitening on corners and edges, surface scratches on the holofoil, print lines, centering, and any pressure marks on the borderless full-art style. Because this is a premium chase card, even small defects can materially affect graded value.
Storage. Store in a penny sleeve and rigid top loader or magnetic holder, keep away from humidity and direct light, and avoid repeated handling. For high-grade copies, use clean gloves or handle only by edges.
Authenticity. Confirm the card number 223/197, the English text, the correct Special Illustration Rare finish, and crisp texture/detail consistency. Fakes often show poor texture, blurred lettering, incorrect foil pattern, or off-color blacks and reds; comparison against verified scans is useful.
Sources: tcgplayer.com, mydextcg.com, pricecharting.com, guardiantcg.app, cardrake.com