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Brilliant Stars 2022: Top Cards Under $25 for Budget Collectors
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Brilliant Stars 2022: Top Cards Under $25 for Budget Collectors
Hey “What The Slab” fam!
It’s been a few years since Brilliant Stars dropped, and what an impact it made on the Pokémon TCG world. From its jaw-dropping Charizard pull rates to the introduction of the powerful VSTAR mechanic, this set has cemented its place as a fan favorite. I’ve been tracking Brilliant Stars prices closely, and while some of the chase cards have absolutely skyrocketed into the stratosphere (looking at you, Charizard Alt Art!), the good news is that there are still incredible opportunities to snag some fantastic cards without having to empty your entire wallet.
Collecting doesn’t always have to be about chasing the biggest whales. Sometimes, the real joy comes from finding exceptional value, gorgeous artwork, or powerful playable cards that fit perfectly into your budget. That’s exactly what we’re diving into today! We’re talking about those hidden gems, the solid investments, and the truly stunning cards from Brilliant Stars that you can add to your collection right now, all for under $25 (or just barely over, for an undeniable value proposition).
We’ll be leveraging current market data, comparing raw prices to graded slabs, and discussing the potential for future growth. So grab your binder, pour over your wantlist, and let’s find some brilliant additions for your collection!
Prices as of March 2026. All prices are in USD.
Brilliant Stars Top Cards Pricing Snapshot
| # | Card | Set | Market | PSA 10 | PSA 9 | Raw | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Charizard V (154) | Brilliant Stars | $265.02 | $720.00 | $275.00 | $249.50 | Hot |
| 2 | Charizard VSTAR (174) | Brilliant Stars | $65.61 | $219.39 | $89.00 | $91.55 | Hot |
| 3 | Arceus V (166) | Brilliant Stars | $48.87 | $158.50 | $53.11 | $54.99 | Hot |
| 4 | Charizard V (153) | Brilliant Stars | $25.74 | $119.99 | $40.00 | $25.00 | Hot |
| 5 | Ultra Ball (186) | Brilliant Stars | $20.86 | $58.00 | $14.50 | $17.99 | Hot |
| 6 | Pikachu V (157) | Brilliant Stars | $16.74 | N/A | N/A | $16.45 | – |
| 7 | Arceus VSTAR (184) | Brilliant Stars | $14.94 | N/A | N/A | $13.94 | – |
| 8 | Galarian Moltres V (183) | Brilliant Stars | $14.40 | N/A | N/A | $13.75 | – |
| 9 | Arceus VSTAR (176) | Brilliant Stars | $13.29 | N/A | N/A | $12.35 | – |
| 10 | Lumineon V (156) | Brilliant Stars | $12.64 | N/A | N/A | $11.99 | – |
How We Picked Our Budget Stars
When compiling this list, my primary focus was on the “Market” price being under $25 USD. However, for a card to be truly exciting for budget collectors, it also needs to offer either stunning artwork, significant playability, or strong long-term potential. Sometimes, a card might be just slightly over the $25 market price but its raw price falls within budget, making it an excellent target for those looking to grade their own slabs. So, while we’re mostly sticking to that strict $25 ceiling, I’ve made one notable exception for a truly iconic Pokémon that still represents incredible value near that price point.
Let’s dive into these affordable gems!
Brilliant Stars Budget Picks: Under $25 (and a close contender!)
Charizard V (153)
Alright, I know what you’re thinking - “Wait, Charizard V (153) has a Market price of $25.74, isn’t that over $25?” You’re absolutely right, sharp eyes! However, its raw price is a perfect $25.00, making it an incredible “on-the-cusp” budget pick. As any collector knows, Charizard is king, and getting any Zard from a modern set at this price point is a steal. This full art is sleek, dramatic, and features the iconic fire dragon in a dynamic pose. Considering its PSA 10 comps are a whopping $119.99 (nearly 4.8x raw!), snagging a clean raw copy for $25.00 offers fantastic grading potential if you can find one with good centering.
Charizard V (153) | Charizard V 153 Brilliant Stars sold listings on eBay
Ultra Ball (186)
This card is a fantastic example of a highly playable Trainer card becoming a collector’s item due to its Secret Rare status and stunning alternate art. With a Market price of $20.86 and a Raw price of $17.99, it’s easily within our budget. The crisp artwork and universal utility of Ultra Ball mean it’s perpetually in demand, making it a safe bet for a collection piece that holds its value. While PSA 10 comps at $58.00 show solid upside, the limited number of sales (just 4) suggests that a gem mint copy is quite rare to find, so keep an eye on those corners and centering if you’re planning to grade.
Pikachu V (157)
Who doesn’t love Pikachu? This adorable full art Pikachu V, with its dynamic pose and vibrant background, is a must-have for any fan of the franchise. At a Market price of $16.74 and a Raw price of $16.45, it’s an incredibly accessible entry point for a full art staple. While there’s no graded data available yet, the consistent popularity of Pikachu suggests that a pristine copy could see decent returns down the line. This is definitely a card to pick up if you appreciate iconic Pokémon artwork and want to add a vibrant piece to your collection without breaking the bank.
Arceus VSTAR (184)
As the literal creator Pokémon, Arceus holds a special place in the hearts of many collectors, and this gorgeous Secret Rare Arceus VSTAR card is no exception. Its Market price sits at $14.94, with Raw copies available for $13.94, making it a fantastic budget pick. The gold detailing and ethereal art truly make this card stand out, signifying its supreme power in the Pokémon universe. Though we don’t have PSA 10 or PSA 9 data yet, this card’s aesthetic appeal and the enduring popularity of Arceus suggest it’s a solid, affordable pickup that could gain traction over time.
Galarian Moltres V (183)
The Galarian Birds have been a massive hit, and this Galarian Moltres V Secret Rare is a prime example of why. Featuring stunning dark and fiery artwork, it captures the essence of this legendary Pokémon perfectly. With a Market price of $14.40 and a Raw price of $13.75, it’s an absolute steal for such an iconic card. It’s often overlooked by collectors chasing higher-priced alternate arts, but its unique aesthetic offers a strong visual appeal that stands on its own. This is a card I’d personally recommend grabbing raw, as its striking design offers great long-term appeal for the price.
Galarian Moltres V (183) | Galarian Moltres V 183 Brilliant Stars sold listings on eBay
Arceus VSTAR (176)
Another fantastic Arceus VSTAR makes our budget list, this time the standard VSTAR Ultra Rare. At a Market price of $13.29 and Raw at $12.35, it’s another accessible way to own a powerful and aesthetically pleasing card of the Alpha Pokémon. While not as flashy as its Secret Rare counterpart, the clean design and the sheer significance of Arceus make this an excellent foundational piece for any Brilliant Stars collection. It’s also a highly playable card, which often contributes to sustained demand, even if it doesn’t always translate into skyrocketing slab values for the regular VSTARs.
Lumineon V (156)
Lumineon V (156) is a beautiful full art card that often flies under the radar, making it a perfect budget pick. With a Market price of $12.64 and a Raw price of $11.99, it offers a lot of visual appeal for a very modest investment. The serene underwater artwork is captivating, showcasing Lumineon in all its graceful glory. While it might not have the same hype as a Charizard or Pikachu, its stunning art could make it a sleeper hit in the future for collectors who appreciate unique and elegant designs. If you’re looking for a card that truly stands out aesthetically without draining your funds, this Lumineon V is a fantastic choice.
Pro Tip: Mastering Your Centering Checks
When buying raw cards with the intention to grade, especially for budget picks like these where the PSA 10 multiplier can be significant (e.g., Charizard V (153) at 4.8x raw!), centering is king. Always ask for clear, high-resolution photos or a video if buying online, specifically requesting shots of the card against a dark, contrasting background to highlight the borders. Use a centering tool or a simple ruler to compare the top/bottom and left/right borders. A perfectly centered card is a huge leap towards that coveted Gem Mint 10, significantly boosting its slab value and making your budget pick a true investment winner. Even if you don’t plan to grade immediately, a well-centered raw card will always be more desirable!
Essential Collector’s Gear for Your New Budget Slabs
No matter if you’re landing a budget gem or a high-dollar whale, protecting your collection is paramount. Here are a few must-have items from trusted brands that I personally use and recommend:
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Ultra Pro One-Touch 35pt Magnetic Card Holder: For displaying your absolute favorite raw cards or even as a temporary holder before sending to grading, these magnetic holders offer premium protection and crystal-clear viewing.
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Dragon Shield Sleeves Matte Standard Size: Essential for keeping your raw cards pristine from the moment you pull them. Dragon Shield sleeves are durable and come in a variety of colors to match your aesthetic.
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Vault X Premium 9 Pocket Trading Card Binder: A great way to organize and display your collection in a visually appealing and secure manner. Vault X binders are known for their quality and side-loading pockets that keep cards from falling out.
Final Thoughts: Brilliant Value from Brilliant Stars
Brilliant Stars might be best known for its fiery Charizards and powerful Arceus VSTARs, but as we’ve seen, it’s also a treasure trove for budget-conscious collectors. From the on-the-cusp Charizard V (153) to the stunning Ultra Ball Secret Rare and the charming Pikachu V, there’s a wealth of visually appealing and potentially valuable cards available for under $25.
By focusing on raw cards with good centering and keeping an eye on market trends, you can build an impressive Brilliant Stars collection without overspending. Remember, the thrill of the hunt and the joy of ownership are what truly make collecting rewarding, regardless of the price tag.
Which of these budget picks are you eyeing for your collection? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your recent Brilliant Stars pickups! Happy collecting, and may your pulls be ever gem mint!