15+ best Pokémon VS series card list: Top hit, valuable picks

VS Pokémon cards are among the most fascinating collectibles in the Pokémon TCG world, capturing attention with their exclusive Japanese release and unique trainer-linked designs. This series stands out not only for its rarity but also for the striking artwork that connects Gym Leaders and Elite Four with their signature Pokémon. Collectors around the globe are drawn to these cards for their combination of nostalgia, artistry, and long-term value. 

If you’re curious to explore the most valuable and iconic picks from this legendary set, keep reading and don’t miss the full breakdown at Japan Figure, where you can dive deeper into the world of authentic Japanese Pokémon treasures.

1. Overview about Pokémon VS series 

The VS Pokémon cards (also known as the Pokémon VS series) are a unique Japanese-exclusive set that quickly became a favorite among collectors worldwide. Unlike many other sets, these cards highlight the connection between Trainers and their Pokémon, with each card showing the Pokémon owned by a specific character such as Lance, Karen, or Sabrina. 

This special design choice made the VS series stand out as one of the most distinctive collections in Pokémon TCG history.

• Release date: The VS series was first released in Japan in July 2001 and was never officially printed in English.
  
• Content: The set includes over 140 cards, each labeled with a Trainer’s name alongside their Pokémon, such as Lance’s Charizard or Karen’s Umbreon. The focus on Trainer–Pokémon pairings was fresh and appealing, giving the series a unique identity that remains popular with fans.

Because of its limited release and remarkable artwork, the Pokémon VS series continues to be highly sought after by global collectors. Some collectors also compare the rarity of Lance’s Charizard to other rarest Charizard card releases, adding to the allure of chasing top-tier cards.

2. 15+ best Pokémon VS series card list worth collecting

The VS Pokémon cards series is filled with hidden treasures, each carrying historical value and unique artwork that collectors love. From the iconic Karen’s Umbreon to Lance’s powerful Charizard, these cards reflect both the strength of the Pokémon and the charisma of their Trainers. Below are some of the most valuable and sought-after cards in the Pokémon VS series you should definitely keep an eye on.

1. Karen's Umbreon #91 ~ $567.86
2. Lance's Charizard #97 ~ $174.50
3. Morty's Gengar #21 ~ $150.94
4. Rocket's Tyranitar #142 ~ $64.88
5. Lance's Dragonite #100 ~ $76.19
6. Karen's Tyranitar #90 ~ $93.24
7. Rocket's Entei #95 ~ $103.80
8. Sabrina's Espeon #56 ~ $87.71
9. Clair's Dragonite #49 ~ $45.62
10. Bugsy's Scizor #13 ~ $99.96
11. Rocket's Suicune #96 ~ $67.58
12. Jasmine's Steelix #32 ~ $64.78
13. Lance's Gyarados #98 ~ $59.13
14. Clair's Blastoise #46 ~ $53.00
15. Rocket's Wobbuffet #93 ~ $62.05

2.1 Karen's Umbreon #91 ~ $567.86

Karen’s Umbreon is widely regarded as the crown jewel of the Pokémon VS series. Its striking holo design combined with Umbreon’s mysterious appeal makes it one of the most expensive cards from the set. Collectors prize this card for both its rarity and the fact that it was released only in Japan.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 60, Darkness type
• Illustrator: Atsuko Nishida
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Very low; holo VS cards are significantly harder to obtain
• Price range: Around $567.86 ungraded, much higher when PSA-graded

2.2 Lance's Charizard #97 ~ $174.50

Lance’s Charizard is one of the most iconic cards in the set, combining a fan-favorite Trainer with one of the most powerful and beloved Pokémon of all time. Collectors often compare it with other designs such as the Yu Nagaba Pokémon artwork series to appreciate unique artistic interpretations.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 100, Fire type
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Rare holo slot, highly competitive to pull
• Price range: Around $174.50 ungraded

2.3 Morty's Gengar #21 ~ $150.94

Dark and ghostly, Morty’s Gengar is a must-have card for fans of Ghost-type Pokémon. The haunting artwork perfectly reflects Gengar’s mischievous nature, while Morty’s association as a Ghost-type Gym Leader adds even more character appeal. It’s a highly collectible holo rare with strong value retention.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 80, Psychic type
• Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Difficult, holo VS cards appear infrequently
• Price range: Around $150.94 ungraded

2.4 Rocket's Tyranitar #142 ~ $64.88

Rocket’s Tyranitar is a powerful Dark-type card that represents Team Rocket’s fierce battle style. Its holo artwork has made it a favorite among collectors who enjoy villain-themed Pokémon. This card also inspires modern sets, including the Crimson Haze card list, which draws on holo rarities popularized in the VS Pokémon series.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 120, Darkness type
• Illustrator: Hajime Kusajima
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Moderate rarity, still difficult due to holo distribution
• Price range: Around $64.88 ungraded

2.5 Lance's Dragonite #100 ~ $76.19

Dragonite is one of the most beloved Dragon-type Pokémon, and pairing it with Lance makes this VS card especially collectible. The artwork highlights Dragonite’s strength and Lance’s commanding presence, making it a must-have for fans of Dragon-type trainers. Its value remains relatively affordable compared to other holo rares, which makes it an attractive entry point for new collectors.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 100, Dragon type
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Hard to obtain due to holo rarity
• Price range: Around $76.19 ungraded

2.6 Karen's Tyranitar #90 ~ $93.24

Karen’s Tyranitar is a striking card that emphasizes the strength and dominance of this Dark/Rock-type Pokémon. The card’s holo design makes Tyranitar appear even more intimidating, and being paired with Karen, a popular Trainer gives it strong collectible appeal. It’s valued slightly higher than Rocket’s Tyranitar due to its trainer association.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 120, Darkness type
• Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Rare holo slot, difficult to secure
• Price range: Around $93.24 ungraded

2.7 Rocket's Entei #95 ~ $103.80

Entei is a legendary Pokémon, and its Rocket’s VS card is one of the standout holo rares in the set. Featuring dramatic artwork and strong rarity, this card has significant value for both Entei enthusiasts and collectors of legendary Pokémon. Its price continues to rise steadily, making it a smart choice for long-term investment.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 80, Fire type
• Illustrator: Kimiya Masago
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Very low; holo legendaries are among the hardest to pull
• Price range: Around $103.80 ungraded

2.8 Sabrina's Espeon #56 ~ $87.71

Sabrina’s Espeon is a Psychic-type favorite in the VS Pokémon cards lineup. The artwork captures Espeon’s sleek and elegant design while showcasing Sabrina’s role as a skilled Psychic trainer. This card is especially popular among collectors of Eeveelutions, making it a highly desirable pick in the series.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 70, Psychic type
• Illustrator: Atsuko Nishida
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Low; holo rares are not common
• Price range: Around $87.71 ungraded

2.9 Clair's Dragonite #49 ~ $45.62

Clair’s Dragonite is another Dragon-type card in the VS series, pairing the powerful Pokémon with the Dragon Master Gym Leader. While less expensive than Lance’s Dragonite, it still holds nostalgic and collectible value thanks to the unique trainer–Pokémon pairing. This card is a more affordable way to own a Dragonite from the VS set.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 100, Dragon type
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Moderate rarity, still challenging to pull
• Price range: Around $45.62 ungraded

2.10 Bugsy's Scizor #13 ~ $99.96

Bugsy’s Scizor is a standout Steel/Bug-type card from the Pokémon VS series. Its sharp metallic artwork reflects Scizor’s battle-ready nature, while Bugsy’s connection as the Bug-type Gym Leader gives the card extra personality. Collectors value this card highly due to its unique type and striking holo finish.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 80, Steel/Bug type
• Illustrator: Hajime Kusajima
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Low, holo Steel-types are uncommon
• Price range: Around $99.96 ungraded

2.11 Rocket's Suicune #96 ~ $67.58

Suicune is a legendary Pokémon that has always been a favorite among collectors, and the Rocket’s Suicune VS card is no exception. Its graceful design contrasts with the Rocket branding, making it one of the more unique legendaries in the set. This card balances affordability with rarity, making it a smart addition for collectors.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 70, Water type
• Illustrator: Kimiya Masago
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Rare; legendary holos are harder to obtain
• Price range: Around $67.58 ungraded

2.12 Jasmine's Steelix #32 ~ $64.78

Jasmine’s Steelix brings the power of a Steel-type Pokémon into the VS Pokémon cards series. Known for her specialty in Steel Pokémon, Jasmine’s connection makes this card both thematic and collectible. Its holo artwork highlights Steelix’s massive frame, making it a solid addition for fans of tanky Pokémon.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 110, Steel type
• Illustrator: Hajime Kusajima
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Low, Steel-type holos are uncommon
• Price range: Around $64.78 ungraded

2.13 Lance's Gyarados #98 ~ $59.13

Lance’s Gyarados reflects both raw power and ferocity, showcasing one of the most iconic Water-type Pokémon. As part of the VS series, the combination of Lance and Gyarados enhances its collectible appeal. Though it’s not as pricey as Charizard or Dragonite, it’s still a staple card for Lance fans and Water-type collectors.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 90, Water type
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Rare holo, moderately difficult to pull
• Price range: Around $59.13 ungraded

2.14 Clair's Blastoise #46 ~ $53.00

Clair’s Blastoise is a classic powerhouse card from the Pokémon VS series. While Clair is primarily known as a Dragon-type trainer, her pairing with Blastoise adds a unique twist to the set. The card’s holo design and affordable price make it an accessible yet valuable piece for collectors.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 100, Water type
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Moderate, but holo cards remain challenging
• Price range: Around $53.00 ungraded

2.15 Rocket's Wobbuffet #93 ~ $62.05

Rocket’s Wobbuffet is one of the more quirky and fun cards in the VS Pokémon cards lineup. Known for its comedic personality in the Pokémon anime, Wobbuffet paired with Team Rocket adds extra charm. Collectors enjoy this card for its unique character representation and relatively stable price point.

• Rarity: Holo Rare
• Spec: HP 80, Psychic type
• Illustrator: Kouki Saitou
• Release: July 2001, Pokémon VS series (Japanese exclusive)
• Pull rate: Rare holo, not easy to find in mint condition
• Price range: Around $62.05 ungraded

The VS Pokémon cards series remains one of the most unique and valuable releases in the Pokémon TCG history. With its Japan-only launch, exclusive trainer-Pokémon pairings, and stunning artwork, this set continues to captivate collectors worldwide. Whether you’re chasing Karen’s Umbreon, Lance’s Charizard, or building a complete set, these cards are a timeless investment in both nostalgia and value.

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Rikuya Takamine

Rikuya Takamine has been writing about Japanese pop culture for over seven years. With a background in media and communications, he covers major TCG releases and collectible figure launches with accuracy and excitement for leading Japanese pop culture platforms.

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