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Pikachu ex 238 Surging Sparks PSA + CGC Pop Report: Rarity vs Price (2026)

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Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks commands a 4.07x multiple between its raw price of $301.01 and its PSA 10 median of $1,225. This significant multiplier indicates that achieving a perfect grade is not merely about luck, but a calculated strategy for value enhancement, with grading potentially offering substantial returns.

In This Article

• The Population Report

• Reading the Scarcity Signal

• Rarity × Demand Quadrant

• What the Pop Data Says About Grading New Copies

• The Verdict

• Where to Buy

• Frequently Asked Questions

Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks trades at a 4.07x raw-to-PSA-10 multiple. At $1,225 median for a PSA 10 against a $301.01 raw price, this ratio alone tells you whether grading is math or gambling on this card. PSA has certified 8,485 copies of Pikachu ex #238 at Gem Mint 10. This represents a notable portion of the total graded population, suggesting a strong demand for high-grade examples of this popular Pokémon. Last updated: May 2026.

The Population Report

26,051 total graded across PSA and CGC (25,229 PSA + 822 CGC), median PSA 10 sells for $1,196.37.

PSA’s internal data confirms a significant number of graded copies, with 8,485 reaching the coveted PSA 10 grade, aligning closely with the combined total found in broader market data aggregators. This robust population at the highest grade provides a solid foundation for understanding market dynamics.

Data sources: Prices cited above reflect eBay sold comps, PriceCharting market prices, and PriceCharting pop page (PSA + CGC) and PSA public API. All figures as of May 2026.

Reading the Scarcity Signal

With 8,485 Gem Mint 10 copies certified by PSA out of a total of 25,229 graded by the company, the gem-mint rate for Pikachu ex #238 stands at approximately 33.6%. This indicates a relatively healthy supply of PSA 10s, meaning it’s not an exceptionally rare grade for this specific card. Compared to some vintage keys where a PSA 10 might be in the double or triple digits, 8,485 is substantial. For instance, a highly sought-after vintage Charizard from Base Set has a far more restricted PSA 10 population. Similarly, while many modern chase cards boast high population counts, Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks sits in a tier that suggests it’s accessible but not oversaturated. This tier suggests a card that has seen considerable interest from collectors and investors alike, driving significant grading submissions.

Rarity × Demand Quadrant

Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks occupies the “High Pop + High Demand” quadrant. The 8,485 PSA 10 population is a significant number, placing it in the higher end of scarcity tiers. Concurrently, the $1,225 median price for a PSA 10, significantly higher than its raw price and PSA 9 median, points to robust demand. This combination suggests a highly liquid market where established demand can absorb a relatively large supply, making it a strong contender for collectors and investors focused on established, popular characters within the Pokémon TCG. While not possessing the extreme scarcity of ultra-rare cards, its strong demand ensures sustained market interest and potential for steady appreciation.

What the Pop Data Says About Grading New Copies

With over 8,000 PSA 10 copies of Pikachu ex #238 already certified, the card can be considered “pop-saturated.” This means that each new PSA 10 submission, while potentially adding value to that specific card, contributes to a growing supply that could dilute the overall market value of Gem Mint copies over time. For new submissions, the break-even point is crucial. With a raw price of approximately $300, factoring in a $25 grading fee and an estimated 13% for submission fees and marketplace commissions (around $39), the total cost to grade is roughly $364. Selling at the current PSA 10 median of $1,225, a successful grade yields a profit of approximately $861. This offers a compelling ROI for grading, even with a saturated population, due to the substantial price difference between raw and graded.

Pro Tip: While the Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks is experiencing high demand, always factor in the condition of the raw card before submitting. Even with a high pop count, significant issues with centering, edge whitening, or surface flaws will drastically reduce its chances of achieving a PSA 10, turning a potential profit into a loss. A critical self-assessment of the card’s condition against PSA’s grading standards is paramount for success.

The Verdict

HOLD. The Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks presents a compelling case for holding existing PSA 10 graded copies. With 8,485 PSA 10s certified and a median sale price of $1,225, the card has established itself as a strong performer in the market, driven by a popular character and a desirable set. The significant gap between the PSA 10 value and the PSA 9 median ($1,225 vs. $322.50) underscores the premium placed on perfect grades.

For collectors already holding PSA 10s, the current market conditions suggest holding is the prudent strategy. The high demand, evidenced by its consistent sales at a premium, indicates that its value is likely to remain stable or see continued, albeit potentially slower, appreciation. While the population count is substantial, the enduring appeal of Pikachu and the Surging Sparks set’s collectibility offer a strong floor.

For those considering acquiring the card, the “Hold” recommendation applies more to securing graded copies. While the ROI on grading new raw copies remains attractive due to the raw-to-PSA-10 price differential, the saturated pop count means entering the market with an already graded PSA 10 offers immediate access to established market value without the risks associated with the grading process.

Where to Buy

For collectors looking to acquire this vibrant Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks, the secondary market offers several avenues. It’s essential to navigate these platforms with an eye for both raw cards and professionally graded slabs.

Check active graded listings on eBay remains a primary destination for finding both raw and graded Pokémon cards. Utilizing filters for specific grades, such as PSA 10, will help narrow down choices and identify copies that meet your investment or collection standards. Always review seller feedback and examine listing photos carefully for any potential condition discrepancies.

Browse raw copies on TCGPlayer is an excellent resource for sourcing raw copies of Pikachu ex #238. This platform often provides competitive pricing on individual cards, allowing collectors to hunt for potential gems. Remember that raw card prices fluctuate, and the cost of grading should always be factored into your purchase decision when aiming for a high-grade acquisition. For those interested in understanding the broader landscape of the Surging Sparks set, exploring its Best Surging Sparks Pokemon Cards Under $25 (2026 Budget Guide) can offer additional context and potential budget-friendly additions to your collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current median price for a PSA 10 Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks?

As of May 2026, the median price for a PSA 10 Pikachu ex #238 from the Surging Sparks set is approximately $1,225. This reflects strong demand for the card in its highest grade.

How many PSA 10 copies of Pikachu ex #238 have been graded?

PSA has certified a total of 8,485 copies of Pikachu ex #238 at the Gem Mint 10 grade. This figure represents a significant portion of the total graded population for this card.

Is Pikachu ex #238 from Surging Sparks considered a rare card?

While Pikachu ex #238 has a substantial PSA 10 population of 8,485, indicating it’s not exceptionally rare in terms of graded supply, its high demand drives its market value. It sits in a tier of accessibility for collectors but with strong market interest.

Should I consider grading raw copies of Pikachu ex #238?

Yes, given the current median PSA 10 price of $1,225 and a raw price around $301.01, grading raw copies can still offer a substantial return on investment. However, be mindful of the already high population count in PSA 10, which suggests market saturation. Careful assessment of the raw card’s condition is crucial for success.

What is the price difference between a PSA 9 and PSA 10 Pikachu ex #238?

The median price for a PSA 9 Pikachu ex #238 is $322.50, while a PSA 10 commands a median of $1,225. This signifies a substantial premium for the perfect grade, highlighting the value of achieving a PSA 10.

Where can I find more information on grading Pokémon cards?

For in-depth analysis and comparisons of grading services and their impact on card value, exploring resources like PSA vs BGS vs CGC for Magikarp #203: Which Pays Most in 2026? can provide valuable insights into the grading landscape.

Explore the vibrant world of Pokémon TCG with our comprehensive guides at /pokemon-cards/ and deepen your understanding of the hobby by visiting our /card-grading/ pillar page.