In one word – yes! The Shiny Charizard VMAX is one of the rarest and most valuable modern Pokémon cards. Its shiny black color scheme, iconic Kanto starter status, and coveted VMAX rarity make it a supremely desirable chase card for any collector. Read on as I, a seasoned Pokémon investor, dive into the full story behind the scarcity, value, and appeal of this elite Charizard.
The Card That Launched a Frenzy
When Shining Fates released in early 2021, the hobby scene exploded with excitement about its Shiny Vault subset. This special section contained full art shiny Pokémon, including the card single-handedly responsible for the hype – Shiny Charizard VMAX.
As seasoned collectors know, anything shiny and Charizard related tends to drive up demand. Combine them together and you have a recipe for a frenzy. The Shiny Charizard VMAX quickly became the must-have chase card of the set.
Just How Rare Is It?
As an ultra rare card, Shiny Charizard VMAX already starts off highly elusive at roughly 1 in 100 Shining Fates packs. But let‘s dig deeper:
- Total Shiny Vault subset – 122 cards
- Total Shiny Pokémon – 70 (shiny full arts)
- Shiny Charizard VMAX print run – estimated 5,000-10,000 copies
Out of the entire shiny pool, Charizard makes up a tiny fraction. And out of the enormous print runs for Shining Fates as a whole, the Shiny VMAX population is a drop in the bucket.
While the exact print run is not public, experts agree it ranges between 5,000-10,000 based on rarity classifications and pack opening rates. That may sound generous, but it pales in comparison to the millions of common cards printed.
Bottom line – Shiny Charizard VMAX is certainly rare, with pack luck required to pull one. But how does rarity translate into actual value?
Current Market Values Reflect Rarity
As expected, the steep rarity shows up clearly in secondary market prices. Here is a breakdown of the price range for the Shiny Charizard VMAX based on condition:
| Condition | Market Value |
| Raw NM/M | $150 – $300 |
| PSA 9 Mint | $250 – $400 |
| PSA 10 Gem Mint | $600 – $1,000+ |
| BGS 9.5 Quad Gem Mint | $400 – $700 |
A few things stand out:
- Raw copies in perfect shape reach up to $300
- PSA and BGS grades multiply value exponentially
- PSA 10s occasionally auction over $1,000
Clearly, collectors place a premium on flawless, graded copies. But retail pack prices also reflect the heated demand.
At one point in 2021, sealed Shining Fates booster boxes peaked at $500, 5X the original MSRP. Prices have cooled slightly since then, but remain elevated around $300.
The hype surrounding Shiny Charizard VMAX was the primary fuel driving box values. And as we‘ll discuss next, long term demand remains robust.
Outlook and Investment Potential
Now, you may be wondering – is Shiny Charizard VMAX a solid investment? Should I keep sealed product or singles? Let‘s dive into the growth outlook and risks.
In the short term, prices have already spiked. However, there are a few bullish indicators pointing to continued steady gains:
- No reprints mean fixed supply
- Popularity of modern sealed investing
- Collector appetite for PSA 10s
- Cult status of Charizard chase cards
Lack of reprints combined with grading interest gives the Shiny VMAX legitimate staying power.
In my analysis, I expect PSA 10s to appreciate toward $2,000+ long term. Sealed booster boxes also have room to climb from current $300 levels.
However, there are also risks to consider:
- Potential overpopulation from mass submissions
- Influx of high graded copies being resold
- Volatility of modern card market
No investment is guaranteed. But the shiny black dragon remains a relatively safe bet among moderns if you plan to hold long term.
Just remember to diversify and avoid overpaying!
How Does It Compare to Other Rare Charizards?
While firmly among the upper echelon of rare Charizards, the Shiny VMAX doesn’t surpass the holy grails like 1st Edition Base Set. But it stands head and shoulders above most other modern era cards.
Let’s compare it to some iconic Charizards in terms of rarity and value:
| Card | Rarity | Value (PSA 10) |
| Base Set 1st Edition | Legendary | $350,000+ |
| Shining Charizard | Extremely Rare | $10,000-$15,000 |
| Shiny Charizard VMAX | Ultra Rare | |
| Rainbow Rare VMAX | Secret Rare | $200-$400 |
| Charizard VSTAR | Ultra Rare | $30-$60 |
The vintage era cards are almost unattainable for average collectors. But the Shiny VMAX remains accessible while still carrying prestige.
Among modern Charizards, it stands in a class of its own.
Where to Buy for Your Collection
Okay, I may have gotten you excited about owning this beautiful shiny Charizard! Here are some recommendations on securely acquiring your own:
- eBay – Thousands of raw and graded copies listed from reputable sellers
- TCGPlayer – Reliable source for raw singles, especially NM condition
- PSA Auctions – Guaranteed authenticity on graded cards
- Your local card shop – Check if they have any in stock
I‘d advise buying professionally graded whenever possible for the increased security and long term value.
And of course, opens packs for the thrill – but the odds are stacked against pulling the Charizard yourself!
Preserving Your Investment
Alright, last but not least – you‘ve got your shiny Charizard. Now it‘s time to make sure it stays protected and preserved!
Here are my top tips:
- Double sleeve and top load raw cards immediately
- Store in a dry, temperature controlled room
- Avoid direct sun exposure or moisture
- Handle gently and by the edges only
- Consider grading if on a budget, aim for PSA or BGS
Following hobby best practices pays off when it comes time to resell or pass down your collection.
So there you have it, my complete guide to the magnificent Shiny Charizard VMAX. From rarity and values to long term outlook, I aimed to provide the insights of an experienced investor and enthusiast. Let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m always happy to chat more Pokémon!
