The market for Pokémon cards now plays a major role in auction sales. In Nîmes, 3,000 copies from a family collection will be dispersed, confirming the growth of a sector where geek culture attracts auction houses.
The phenomenon of Pokémon cards has found a new market in recent years: the resale market for auctions. Specializing in the sale of vintage toys, particularly Dinky Toys cars, the auction house Ivoire Nîmes is opening a specialized department in collectible cards, with an inaugural sale on May 13 dispersing a single collection of 3,000 cards reunited by a father and his 18-year-old son.
In Nîmes, the auction will take place on Wednesday, May 13 starting at 10 a.m. An public exhibition is scheduled for Monday, May 11 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Recently, a Pokémon card Pikachu Illustrator was sold at auction for $16.5 million. Lately, cards have been included in the sales of major houses, such as Drouot. Some auction houses, including those in Troyes, specialize in this market.
Several exceptional lots are among the 3,000 cards presented in Nîmes, including hundreds sold individually. There are cards from the Neo block like Shiny Charizard (estimated 800/1,000), gems from the Ex Block with the Legendary Star Three Dogs and a selection of cards ranging from the Platinum block to Black and White through HGSS, in an incredible condition perfect for future grading.
Like in all art market specialties, expertise is crucial. Thus, the auctioneer of Ivoire Nîmes, Aurore Illy, works with a specialized consultant. “I have received many requests since the first lots were posted on the Interencheres platform which allows for live bidding. This shows that the market is dynamic. Our profession is evolving with the age of our clientele and we must support collectors of Geek culture,” she explains.
