Logan Paul's Rare Pokémon Card Shatters Auction Record with $16.5 Million Sale
In a stunning display of collectible value, wrestling and social media personality Logan Paul has achieved a new world record for the auction price of a trading card. His extremely rare Pikachu Illustrator Pokémon card, often described as the "Holy Grail" among collectors, sold for an astonishing $16.5 million on Monday at Goldin Auctions. The bidding process spanned an intense 41 days, culminating in this historic sale that was livestreamed on YouTube for fans and enthusiasts worldwide to witness.
From Previous Record to New Heights
Paul originally acquired this coveted card in 2021 for $5.275 million, which at the time set a Guinness World Record for the highest price ever paid for a Pokémon card. To enhance its allure, he later added a custom diamond necklace and a specially designed case, even wearing the card prominently around his neck during WrestleMania 38 in 2022. This personal touch and public display only added to the card's mystique and collector appeal.
Guinness World Records Confirms the Milestone
Guinness World Records adjudicator Sarah Casson was present at the auction's closure to officially verify the sale. She confirmed that the $16.5 million price tag not only sets a new record for a Pokémon card but also establishes a benchmark as the highest amount ever paid for any trading card at auction. "Oh my gosh, this is crazy," exclaimed Paul during the event, reflecting the sheer magnitude of this transaction.
The Winning Bid and Card's Unique History
The winning bidder was A.J. Scaramucci, a venture capitalist and son of former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci. In a symbolic gesture, Paul placed the card around Scaramucci's neck, marking the transfer of this prized possession. The card itself holds a unique place in Pokémon history; it was designed by Atsuko Nishida for a 1998 contest, with only a few dozen believed to exist. Paul's card is particularly special, as it is thought to be the only one with a pristine quality rating of 10, making it an unparalleled treasure in the trading card world.
This sale underscores the growing market for high-end collectibles and the significant cultural impact of figures like Logan Paul in driving interest and value in such items. As trading cards continue to captivate audiences, this record-breaking auction sets a new standard for what collectors are willing to invest in rare pieces of pop culture history.
