Stellar Crown Price Guide: Best Cards & Market Analysis 2026

Released in September 2024, Stellar Crown has quickly established itself as one of the most collectible sets in the Scarlet & Violet era. With its stunning Illustration Rares featuring beloved Kanto starters and competitively viable Tera Pokemon, this 175-card set continues to captivate collectors and investors alike in 2026. As we approach Pokemon's 30th anniversary celebrations, understanding the market dynamics of Stellar Crown becomes crucial for anyone looking to build their collection or portfolio.

This comprehensive price guide examines the top chase cards, current market trends, and investment potential of Stellar Crown as we move through 2026.

Stellar Crown Set Overview

Stellar Crown serves as the English counterpart to Japan's Stellar Miracle set, bringing the crystallized beauty of Stellar Tera Pokemon to Western collectors. The set composition includes:

• Total cards: 175 (142 base set + 33 secret rares)
• 13 Illustration Rares: Featuring hand-drawn artwork with immersive scenes
• 11 Ultra Rares: Full-art Pokemon ex cards
• 6 Special Illustration Rares: The most coveted cards in the set
• 3 Hyper Rares: Gold-bordered trainer and stadium cards

The set's unique selling point lies in its Stellar Tera Pokemon mechanic, which showcases rainbow-bordered cards with distinctive crystalline designs that set them apart from standard Tera Pokemon cards.

Top 10 Most Valuable Stellar Crown Cards (February 2026)

1. Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare - $67.77

The crown jewel of Stellar Crown, this Squirtle Illustration Rare has appreciated 22% since the set's release. The card depicts Squirtle playfully spraying water in a charming beach scene that resonates deeply with collectors. Its value is amplified by nostalgia and its connection to the Kanto starter trio—when paired with the Charmander promo from Obsidian Flames ETBs and Bulbasaur from the same set, collectors can complete an unofficial but highly sought-after starter collection.

Investment outlook: Strong long-term hold. Kanto starters consistently outperform other Pokemon in the secondary market, and this artwork quality ensures sustained demand.

2. Bulbasaur #143 Illustration Rare - $64.89

Neck-and-neck with Squirtle, Bulbasaur has shown 18% growth since September 2024. The Illustration Rare features Bulbasaur in a lush garden setting with incredible depth and detail. As the first Pokemon in National Dex order, Bulbasaur holds special significance for many collectors, particularly those who started their journey with Pokemon Red and Blue.

Market performance: Steady appreciation with low volatility, making it an excellent entry point for newer investors.

3. Dachsbun ex #169 Special Illustration Rare - $34.27

This charming SIR showcases Dachsbun in a bakery setting with Arven, capturing the cozy atmosphere that made Scarlet & Violet's story memorable. The card's appeal extends beyond competitive play, as collectors appreciate the narrative connection to the games.

Competitive relevance: Moderate. While not a meta-defining card, its Well-Baked Body ability sees occasional play in rogue decks.

4. Terapagos ex #170 Special Illustration Rare - $32.15

Up 15% since release, Terapagos ex represents both the set's namesake Stellar mechanic and competitive viability. The SIR artwork depicts Terapagos in its Stellar Form with stunning crystalline effects that collectors prize for display purposes.

Competitive play: High demand from players due to its synergy with Area Zero Underdepths stadium, which allows for 8 bench Pokemon—a unique mechanic that enables specific deck strategies.

5. Briar #171 Special Illustration Rare - $19.88

Briar's SIR has demonstrated impressive 16% yearly gains, making it one of the strongest performers among trainer cards in Stellar Crown. The full-art illustration shows the Blueberry Academy instructor with her signature Amarouge, appealing to both character collectors and competitive players.

Investment note: Trainer SIRs from recent sets have shown consistent appreciation, particularly those featuring popular characters from the games.

6. Hydrapple ex Special Illustration Rare - Price Varies

One of the set's most visually striking cards, Hydrapple ex features the apple dragon Pokemon in an orchard setting with rich colors and dynamic composition. The card's value remains strong due to limited pull rates and aesthetic appeal.

Collector demand: Very high among players who appreciate the Scarlet & Violet Pokedex additions.

7. Galvantula ex Special Illustration Rare - Price Varies

Galvantula's crystallized Stellar appearance makes this SIR particularly photogenic and popular on social media, driving collector interest. The electric spider Pokemon rarely receives premium treatments, making this card especially desirable for Galvantula fans.

8. Area Zero Underdepths #174 Hyper Rare - $14.84

The gold-bordered stadium card enables the expanded bench strategy that makes Terapagos ex viable in competitive play. While Hyper Rares typically trail SIRs in value, this card's playability provides price support.

Competitive relevance: Essential for Terapagos ex decks, ensuring consistent demand from the player base.

9-10. Additional Illustration Rares

Other Illustration Rares in the set, including various Stellar Tera Pokemon, maintain values between $8-15, providing accessible entry points for collectors building the complete IR subset.

Stellar Crown Pull Rates and Expected Value

Understanding pull rates helps collectors and investors make informed decisions about purchasing sealed product versus singles:

• Illustration Rares: Approximately 1 in 40-60 booster packs
• Special Illustration Rares: Approximately 1 in 100-120 booster packs
• Ultra Rares: Approximately 1 in 20-25 booster packs
• Hyper Rares: Approximately 1 in 150-180 booster packs

With a booster box containing 36 packs, collectors can typically expect:

• 0-1 Illustration Rares per box
• 0-1 Special Illustration Rares per box (not guaranteed)
• 1-2 Ultra Rares per box
• 0 Hyper Rares per box (requires multiple boxes)

Value assessment: At current market prices, the expected value of a Stellar Crown booster box sits below retail cost, making singles purchases more economical for targeted collecting. However, the thrill of pulling a Squirtle or Bulbasaur IR continues to drive sealed product sales.

Market Trends: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Performance

Short-Term Trends (Last 30 Days)

Stellar Crown has experienced typical post-release correction:

• 7-day change: -3.5%
• 30-day change: -4.7%

This downward pressure reflects normal market behavior as initial release hype subsides and supply increases through continued pack openings. The high market liquidity score of 10/10 with over 25,904 recorded sales indicates a healthy, active market with minimal price manipulation.

Long-Term Performance (90+ Days)

The broader picture reveals impressive growth:

• 90-day change: +112.3%
• SIR monthly appreciation: 7-11% average
• IR monthly appreciation: 5-8% average

These figures demonstrate that despite short-term volatility, Stellar Crown's premium cards are establishing strong upward trajectories. The set benefits from several tailwinds:

1. Pokemon 30th Anniversary (2026): Major celebrations throughout the year are driving renewed interest in recent sets
2. Scarlet & Violet era popularity: The current generation's success translates to sustained demand
3. Nostalgia premium: Kanto starter representations command price premiums across all eras
4. Art quality: The Illustration Rare and SIR artwork in Stellar Crown ranks among the best in recent years

Investment Analysis: Which Stellar Crown Cards to Buy in 2026

Tier 1: Strong Buy (Long-Term Holds)

Squirtle #148 IR and Bulbasaur #143 IR

• Current prices: $67.77 and $64.89
• Target timeline: 3-5 years
• Rationale: Kanto starters have 25+ years of proven appreciation. These particular illustrations rank among the best ever produced. As the set ages and sealed product becomes scarce, expect continued appreciation.

Terapagos ex #170 SIR

• Current price: $32.15
• Target timeline: 2-3 years
• Rationale: Combines competitive playability with set mascot status. Even if it rotates from competitive formats, collector demand for the set's signature Pokemon should sustain value.

Tier 2: Moderate Buy (Medium-Term Holds)

Briar #171 SIR

• Current price: $19.88
• Target timeline: 1-2 years
• Rationale: Trainer SIRs from Scarlet & Violet have shown consistent 10-15% annual growth. Briar's connection to the Blueberry Academy storyline provides narrative value.

Dachsbun ex #169 SIR

• Current price: $34.27
• Target timeline: 1-2 years
• Rationale: Charming artwork appeals to casual collectors. Price point makes it accessible for portfolio diversification.

Tier 3: Speculative Plays

Area Zero Underdepths #174 Hyper Rare

• Current price: $14.84
• Rationale: Playability-driven demand could spike if Terapagos ex becomes meta-relevant. However, Hyper Rares historically underperform SIRs long-term.

Lower-valued Illustration Rares ($8-15 range)

• Rationale: Budget entry points for collectors betting on set-wide appreciation. Less downside risk but also lower upside potential.

Cards to Avoid or Sell

Standard Ultra Rares (non-SIR full arts)

• These typically depreciate 40-60% within 12-18 months of release
• Better to sell during initial release window if pulled from packs

Regular Tera Pokemon ex cards

• Unless competitively meta-defining, these rarely maintain value
• Focus on SIR versions instead

Grading Considerations for Stellar Crown

With premium cards like Squirtle and Bulbasaur IR exceeding $60, grading becomes a viable consideration for pristine copies. Key factors to evaluate:

When Grading Makes Sense

• Cards valued above $50 raw: PSA 10 premiums of 2-3x raw price justify grading costs
• Centering: Stellar Crown has generally good quality control, but always check centering before submitting
• Surface quality: The Illustration Rare texture can show wear easily—only grade pack-fresh cards

Population Considerations

As a relatively recent set, PSA and CGC population reports for Stellar Crown remain low, which can work in early submitters' favor. Cards graded now will enter a less saturated market compared to waiting 1-2 years when populations increase significantly.

Grading timeline: Current turnaround times range from 30-90 days depending on service level. Factor this into your investment timeline.

Completing the Master Set: Cost and Strategy

For collectors aiming to complete Stellar Crown's 175-card master set, current market conditions present a reasonable entry point:

Estimated master set cost: ~$2,000

This breaks down approximately as:

• Top 2 IRs (Squirtle, Bulbasaur): $130
• Remaining 11 IRs: $100-150
• 6 SIRs: $150-200
• 11 Ultra Rares: $50-80
• 3 Hyper Rares: $30-50
• 142 base set cards: $50-100

Cost-Effective Completion Strategy

1. Buy singles for premium cards: Never chase SIRs and top IRs through pack opening
2. Purchase bulk lots: Many sellers offer near-complete base sets at discount
3. Time your purchases: Monitor market dips during major release windows for other sets
4. Consider Japanese alternatives: Stellar Miracle cards offer similar artwork at lower prices (though not set-legal for English master sets)
5. Patience pays: Prices typically bottom 6-9 months post-release before beginning long-term appreciation

Stellar Crown vs. Other Scarlet & Violet Sets

How does Stellar Crown compare to its contemporaries?

Obsidian Flames (August 2024)

• Similar price range for top cards
• Charizard ex SIR ($150+) significantly outperforms any Stellar Crown card
• Lower overall set value due to fewer chase cards

Twilight Masquerade (May 2024)

• More affordable entry point
• Fewer nostalgic connections
• Lower long-term appreciation potential

Surging Sparks (November 2024)

• Higher ceiling with Pikachu ex SIR commanding $200+
• More volatile price swings
• Stellar Crown offers more stable, diversified value

Verdict: Stellar Crown occupies a sweet spot—premium enough to appreciate meaningfully but accessible enough for average collectors. Its nostalgic Kanto starters provide downside protection that newer Pokemon lack.

2026 Market Outlook and Pokemon's 30th Anniversary Impact

The Pokemon Company's 30th anniversary celebrations throughout 2026 create unique market conditions:

Positive Factors

• Increased mainstream attention: Anniversary coverage brings lapsed collectors back to the hobby
• Nostalgia marketing: Official campaigns highlighting Pokemon history benefit Kanto-featured sets like Stellar Crown
• Special releases: Anniversary products may reference or complement Stellar Crown cards

Risk Factors

• Market saturation: Heavy product releases could dilute attention and spending
• Economic conditions: Broader economic headwinds in 2026 may impact discretionary collectible spending
• Reprint speculation: While unlikely for recent sets, any reprint announcements would crater values

Realistic Expectations

For Stellar Crown specifically, expect:

• Top IRs (Squirtle, Bulbasaur): 15-25% appreciation through 2026
• Premium SIRs: 10-20% appreciation
• Mid-tier cards: Flat to slight appreciation
• Bulk commons/uncommons: Continued depreciation

Buying Guide: Where and How to Purchase Stellar Crown Cards

Sealed Product

• Booster boxes: $120-140 (check current retail)
• Elite Trainer Boxes: $45-55
• Single booster packs: $4-5

Recommendation: Only purchase sealed product for the opening experience, not investment returns. Singles offer better value.

Singles Market

• Online marketplaces: TCGPlayer, eBay, CardMarket (Europe)
• Local game stores: Often 10-15% above online prices but offer immediate acquisition
• Social media groups: Facebook and Reddit communities sometimes offer below-market deals

Authentication Tips

• Check seller ratings: Only purchase from established sellers with 98%+ positive feedback
• Request photos: For cards over $30, always request actual photos, not stock images
• Verify texture: Illustration Rares and SIRs have distinctive textures—smooth cards are likely fake
• Compare prices: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is

Common Mistakes to Avoid

For Investors

1. Overbuying sealed product: EV calculations rarely favor box opening for profit
2. Ignoring condition: A $60 card with edge wear is worth $20—condition is everything
3. Emotional attachment: Don't overpay for cards just because you like the Pokemon
4. Neglecting storage: Improper storage destroys value faster than market forces
5. Short-term thinking: Quality Pokemon cards require 3-5 year hold periods for meaningful returns

For Collectors

1. FOMO buying: Don't panic-buy at release prices; most cards drop 20-30% within months
2. Incomplete research: Always check recent sold listings, not just active listings
3. Skipping grading for high-value pulls: A PSA 10 Squirtle IR is worth 2-3x raw price
4. Mixing investment and collection: Decide whether you're collecting or investing—strategies differ
5. Ignoring Japanese options: Japanese versions offer similar artwork at 40-60% discounts

The Role of Competitive Play in Stellar Crown Values

While artwork drives most value in modern Pokemon cards, competitive viability still matters:

Currently Meta-Relevant

• Terapagos ex: Sees play in expanded bench strategies
• Area Zero Underdepths: Essential stadium for Terapagos decks

Rogue/Casual Play

• Dachsbun ex: Occasional appearances in control decks
• Hydrapple ex: Fun casual deck centerpiece

Rotation Impact

Stellar Crown will remain Standard-legal through at least 2027, providing 1-2 more years of competitive relevance. However, most value comes from collectors rather than players, minimizing rotation risk compared to previous eras.

Storage and Preservation Best Practices

Protecting your Stellar Crown investment requires proper storage:

Essential Supplies

• Penny sleeves: First line of defense for all cards
• Top loaders: For cards valued above $10
• Card savers: For cards being submitted for grading
• Storage boxes: Keep in climate-controlled environment
• Silica gel packets: Prevent moisture damage

Environmental Factors

• Temperature: Store at 60-70°F (15-21°C)
• Humidity: Maintain 30-50% relative humidity
• Light exposure: Minimize UV exposure to prevent fading
• Handling: Always handle by edges, never touch card surface

Insurance Considerations

For collections exceeding $1,000, consider:

• Collectibles insurance: Specialized policies cover market value, not replacement cost
• Documentation: Photograph your collection and maintain purchase records
• Appraisals: Professional appraisals support insurance claims

Future Outlook: 3-5 Year Projections

Based on historical patterns and current market dynamics, here are realistic projections for Stellar Crown's premium cards:

Conservative Scenario

• Squirtle/Bulbasaur IR: $90-110 (35-60% gain)
• Top SIRs: $40-55 (25-70% gain)
• Master set value: $2,500-3,000 (25-50% gain)

Moderate Scenario

• Squirtle/Bulbasaur IR: $120-150 (75-120% gain)
• Top SIRs: $55-75 (70-135% gain)
• Master set value: $3,500-4,500 (75-125% gain)

Optimistic Scenario

• Squirtle/Bulbasaur IR: $180-250 (165-270% gain)
• Top SIRs: $80-120 (150-275% gain)
• Master set value: $5,000-7,000 (150-250% gain)

The optimistic scenario requires several factors aligning: continued Pokemon growth, no major reprints, sustained collector interest in Scarlet & Violet era, and broader collectibles market strength.

Note: Past performance does not guarantee future results. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.

Final Thoughts: Is Stellar Crown Worth Your Investment?

Stellar Crown occupies a unique position in the Scarlet & Violet era. Its combination of nostalgic Kanto starters, beautiful Illustration Rare artwork, and competitively relevant Pokemon ex cards creates a well-rounded set with multiple value drivers.

For collectors, Stellar Crown offers reasonable completion costs and stunning display pieces. The Squirtle and Bulbasaur Illustration Rares deserve spots in any serious Pokemon collection.

For investors, the set presents moderate-to-strong potential with manageable risk. The top IRs benefit from Kanto nostalgia premiums that have proven resilient across market cycles. While unlikely to match the explosive growth of vintage sets, Stellar Crown should deliver solid returns for patient investors willing to hold 3-5 years.

The key is realistic expectations. This isn't a get-rich-quick opportunity, but rather a stable addition to a diversified Pokemon portfolio. Buy cards you genuinely appreciate, store them properly, and let time work in your favor.

As we progress through Pokemon's 30th anniversary year in 2026, Stellar Crown stands as a testament to how modern sets can blend competitive gameplay, artistic excellence, and nostalgic appeal into a compelling package for the entire Pokemon community.

Key Takeaways

• Top cards: Squirtle IR ($67.77) and Bulbasaur IR ($64.89) lead the set with strong appreciation
• Market performance: +112.3% growth over 90 days despite recent short-term correction
• Investment timeline: 3-5 years recommended for meaningful returns
• Completion cost: ~$2,000 for master set at current prices
• Buy singles: Expected value favors singles purchases over sealed product opening
• Storage matters: Proper preservation essential for maintaining and growing value
• Kanto premium: Nostalgia for original starters provides downside protection
• Anniversary boost: Pokemon's 30th anniversary in 2026 creates favorable market conditions
• Grading threshold: Consider grading cards valued above $50 in pristine condition
• Patience required: Short-term volatility normal; focus on long-term holding strategy