In an unprecedented transaction that has captivated the collectibles market, social media influencer and professional wrestler Logan Paul has facilitated the sale of an ultra-rare Pokémon card for a staggering $16.5 million. The landmark auction, finalized this Monday, establishes a new global benchmark for trading card valuations.
The coveted Pikachu Illustrator card, often celebrated as the pinnacle of Pokémon collectibles, changed hands through Goldin Auctions after an intensive 41-day bidding contest. Guinness World Records has officially certified the sale price as the highest ever commanded by any trading card at auction.
Paul initially acquired this exceptional collectible in 2021 for $5.275 million, which at the time represented its own world record for Pokémon card transactions. His subsequent enhancements included commissioning a bespoke display case and integrating the card into a diamond-encrusted necklace, which he prominently showcased during his WrestleMania 38 appearance.
The record-breaking acquisition was secured by venture capitalist A.J. Scaramucci, whose father Anthony Scaramucci previously served as White House communications director.
This particular card’s historical significance stems from its origin as a 1998 illustration contest prize, designed by Pokémon artist Atsuko Nishida. With only 39 copies believed to have entered circulation, the card represents extraordinary rarity. Paul’s specimen distinguishes itself further as potentially the sole example to achieve a pristine Gem Mint 10 grading from professional authentication services.