This is an authentic 1999 Pokémon Base Set 1st Edition Squirtle #63/102, published by Wizards of the Coast and graded by PSA as a PSA 4 (VG-EX). Squirtle is one of the original Kanto starters, and its 1st Edition Base Set card is one of the most sought-after commons from the first English print run of the Pokémon TCG. You’ll find the 1st Edition stamp on the left side, just below the artwork. The card comes in a sealed PSA slab with certification number 172649233, which you can look up on PSA’s website. Please see the photos for a full view of the card and slab.
That said, this could be the Best-Looking PSA 4 You've Ever Seen...
We're not sure what PSA saw the day they graded this card a 4 given they don't provide notes at the lower level grading service tiers...Nonetheless, we were shocked and disappointed by the result, which simply just didn't make sense. We went over the card with 10x magnification, centering measurement tools, angled lighting in a dark room, etc., and we still can’t determine what dropped the grade so dramatically. We submitted with the hopes of achieving a much higher grade, within the range of 8 to 10 range because there's no obvious creases, bends, significant scratches, or glaring surface defects. For the grade it carries, this card looks exceptional.
The grade is what it is though, and the slab still says PSA 4.... so, we've priced the card accordingly. Please take a good look at the photos, and if you happen to spot the mysterious flaw we're overlooking, please send me a message. I'd genuinely love to solve this mystery.
For collectors who value a card's actual appearance just as much as the number printed on its label, this could be a fantastic opportunity to acquire a beautifully preserved vintage Squirtle without paying a higher-grade premium.
Let me know if you have any questions and thanks for looking, and happy collecting!
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HOLO Relics Trading Co. | Phoenix, Arizona