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Top 10 Most Valuable 2001 Topps Johto Pokemon Cards (2026)
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The most valuable 2001 Topps Johto Pokemon cards are led by Holo Azumarill, commanding a raw price of $440.00. Holo Shuckle follows at $265.59 raw, and Holo Lugia at $133.54 raw, with graded Lugia reaching an impressive $3,083 in PSA 10 condition. Collectors seeking high-value additions for their sets will find significant interest in these top-tier holographic and rare entries.
Everyone’s hyping the top card in the 2001 Topps Johto Pokémon set. The smarter play, however, is focusing on the graded potential of cards like Lugia, which shows a remarkable 522.7% grading ROI for a PSA 10. While the raw market for this set is interesting, especially with Azumarill [Holo] topping the list at $440.00, understanding the full spectrum of value, including graded performance, is crucial for strategic collecting in 2026. This list breaks down the top performers, from raw market darlings to cards with significant graded upside. Based on 90-day eBay sold data and PriceCharting comps, the top 10 2001 Topps Johto cards range from $44.93 to $440.00 raw, with graded Lugia reaching $3,083 in PSA 10. Here’s the investment-grade breakdown. Last updated: October 2026.
In This Article
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The Top 10 2001 Topps Johto Market Data
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The Reigning Champion: Azumarill [Holo] (#184)
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A Pocket Full of Value: Shuckle [Holo] (#213)
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Legendary Appeal: Lugia in Focus
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The Holo Contingent: Ursaring, Quilava, Gligar, Wooper, and Smeargle
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The Grading ROI Play: Unlocking Potential
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Buying Strategy for 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Top 10 2001 Topps Johto Market Data
| # | Card | Set | PSA 10 | PSA 9 | Raw | Grading ROI | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Azumarill [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $440.00 | — | — |
| 2 | Shuckle [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $265.59 | — | — |
| 3 | Lugia [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $133.54 | — | — |
| 4 | Ursaring [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $92.38 | — | — |
| 5 | Checklist [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $91.75 | — | — |
| 6 | Lugia | 2001 Topps Johto | $3,083 | — | $79.60 | 522.7% | — |
| 7 | Quilava [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $57.50 | — | — |
| 8 | Gligar [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | $2,087 | — | $53.64 | 614.4% | — |
| 9 | Wooper [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $48.12 | — | — |
| 10 | Smeargle [Holo] | 2001 Topps Johto | — | — | $44.93 | — | — |
Data sources: What The Slab checks eBay sold comps, PriceCharting market prices. All figures as of October 2026.
1. Azumarill [Holo] (184)
Azumarill [Holo] stands at the pinnacle of the 2001 Topps Johto set’s raw market value, boasting an impressive $440.00 price. This positions it as the undisputed leader for collectors primarily focused on acquiring cards in their ungraded state. Its holographic treatment, combined with its position within the Johto generation which holds significant nostalgia for many Pokémon fans, likely contributes to its high demand. While no PSA 10 data is available to showcase its graded potential, its raw value alone makes it a key target. For those looking to acquire this specific card without the uncertainty of grading, direct acquisition is the only path to ownership at this valuation. It represents a substantial investment within this particular set’s raw offerings.
Buy Azumarill [Holo] (184) on TCGPlayer Buy Azumarill [Holo] (184) on eBay
2. Shuckle [Holo] (213)
Securing the second spot for raw value in the 2001 Topps Johto set is Shuckle [Holo] at $265.59. This unique Pokémon, known for its defensive capabilities and peculiar design, has clearly resonated with collectors, pushing its holographic version to a strong secondary position. The substantial gap between its raw price and the third-ranked card indicates a significant collector demand for Shuckle [Holo] in its ungraded form. Like Azumarill, there is no PSA 10 median price available, meaning its value proposition is currently defined solely by the raw market. Acquiring Shuckle [Holo] means focusing on unslabbed copies, and its current price point suggests it’s a serious acquisition for any collector prioritizing this set’s top-tier raw cards.
Buy Shuckle [Holo] (213) on TCGPlayer Buy Shuckle [Holo] (213) on eBay
3. Lugia [Holo] (249)
Lugia [Holo] emerges as the third most valuable card in its raw condition from the 2001 Topps Johto set, with a current price of $133.54. As a Legendary Pokémon and a prominent figure from the Johto region, Lugia consistently commands attention. The holographic treatment further enhances its appeal. While its raw value is significant, it’s important to note that this listing is for the holographic version specifically, distinct from the graded Lugia card that appears later on this list with a much higher valuation. The $133.54 price point makes it a substantial pickup for collectors prioritizing raw, holographic cards from this era, offering a tangible piece of Pokémon history without the immediate need for grading services.
Buy Lugia [Holo] (249) on TCGPlayer Buy Lugia [Holo] (249) on eBay
4. Ursaring [Holo] (217)
Ursaring [Holo] claims the fourth spot among the most valuable 2001 Topps Johto cards in raw condition, priced at $92.38. This price point places it firmly in the upper echelon of the set’s ungraded offerings. Ursaring, as a fully evolved form of Teddiursa, possesses a solid collector base, and its holographic iteration from this era adds a significant premium. The price indicates a strong demand for well-preserved, unslabbed copies. While no PSA 10 data is provided for Ursaring [Holo], its raw value suggests that it’s a desirable card for set completionists or those building a portfolio of sought-after holographic Pokémon cards from the early 2000s.
Buy Ursaring [Holo] (217) on TCGPlayer Buy Ursaring [Holo] (217) on eBay
5. Checklist [Holo] (Card # —)
The Checklist [Holo] from the 2001 Topps Johto set surprises many collectors by ranking fifth in raw value, with a price of $91.75. Historically, checklist cards often carry a unique appeal to dedicated set builders and completionists who appreciate the meta-aspect of a trading card game’s release. The fact that this particular checklist card features a holographic finish undoubtedly boosts its desirability and, consequently, its market price. Without available PSA 10 data, its value is anchored firmly in the raw market. For collectors striving for absolute completeness of the 2001 Topps Johto set, including its holographic checklist, this card represents a specific but significant acquisition.
Buy Checklist [Holo] (—) on TCGPlayer Buy Checklist [Holo] (—) on eBay
6. Lugia (249)
Lugia, in its non-holographic form but graded at PSA 10, is a true powerhouse within the 2001 Topps Johto set, commanding a remarkable median price of $3,083. This graded valuation far surpasses its raw counterpart’s value, highlighting the immense premium placed on pristine, professionally authenticated examples of this iconic Legendary Pokémon. The standout feature here is the incredible Grading ROI of 522.7%, translating to a potential profit of $2240.37. This data suggests that acquiring raw Lugia cards with the intent to grade them could be an exceptionally lucrative strategy. For collectors and investors alike, a PSA 10 Lugia represents a significant asset, showcasing the transformative power of grading on this set’s key cards.
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7. Quilava [Holo] (156)
Quilava [Holo] secures the seventh position in the raw market valuation of the 2001 Topps Johto set, priced at $57.50. As a popular middle evolution in the Cyndaquil evolutionary line, Quilava holds a special place for many fans of the Johto region. Its holographic treatment undoubtedly adds to its appeal, pushing its raw price point to a respectable level within the set. Similar to many other cards on this list, there is no PSA 10 median price available, indicating that its current market value is primarily determined by its raw condition. For collectors focused on assembling a high-quality, unslabbed collection of holographic Johto Pokémon, Quilava [Holo] represents a solid mid-tier investment.
Buy Quilava [Holo] (156) on TCGPlayer Buy Quilava [Holo] (156) on eBay
8. Gligar [Holo] (207)
Gligar [Holo] presents a compelling case for collectors interested in the graded market within the 2001 Topps Johto set. While its raw price sits at $53.64, its true value is unlocked when looking at its PSA 10 performance. A PSA 10 Gligar [Holo] commands a median price of $2,087, offering an astounding Grading ROI of 614.4% and a profit of $1552.33. This data strongly suggests that raw Gligar [Holo] cards are prime candidates for grading. The significant difference between raw and graded prices underscores the demand for Gem Mint condition cards of this unique Pokémon. Collectors looking for substantial returns through grading should pay close attention to this card.
Buy Gligar [Holo] (207) on TCGPlayer Buy Gligar [Holo] (207) on eBay
9. Wooper [Holo] (194)
Wooper [Holo] ranks ninth among the most valuable 2001 Topps Johto cards in raw condition, valued at $48.12. Wooper, a fan-favorite Water/Ground-type Pokémon, has a dedicated following, and its holographic iteration from this set taps into that demand. The $48.12 price point signifies a solid market presence for unslabbed copies. As is the case with many other cards in this set’s top raw performers, no PSA 10 median data is available. This means its current market strength is almost exclusively tied to collectors seeking to acquire it in its ungraded state. For those aiming to complete their holographic collection of this era, Wooper [Holo] is a noteworthy addition.
Buy Wooper [Holo] (194) on TCGPlayer Buy Wooper [Holo] (194) on eBay
10. Smeargle [Holo] (235)
Rounding out the top 10 most valuable 2001 Topps Johto cards in raw condition is Smeargle [Holo] at $44.93. Smeargle, known for its artistic flair and unique Sketch ability, has a cult following among Pokémon enthusiasts. Its inclusion as a holographic card in this set, coupled with its distinct appeal, helps it achieve this price point in the ungraded market. With no PSA 10 data provided for Smeargle [Holo], its value is currently defined by its raw market performance. This makes it an accessible yet desirable holographic card for collectors focusing on completing the 2001 Topps Johto set in its ungraded form.
Buy Smeargle [Holo] (235) on TCGPlayer Buy Smeargle [Holo] (235) on eBay
The Grading ROI Play
The 2001 Topps Johto set presents a compelling opportunity for collectors looking to profit from the grading market, with certain cards offering exceptional return on investment (ROI). Among the top performers, Gligar [Holo] stands out with a staggering 614.4% Grading ROI. For collectors acquiring a raw Gligar [Holo] at its current average price of $53.64, the cost of grading (let’s estimate $59.99 for PSA’s standard service) brings the total investment to approximately $113.63. To break even on this investment, a Gligar [Holo] would need to sell for just over $113.63. However, achieving a PSA 10 grade, which has a median sale price of $2,087, results in a profit of $1552.33, clearly demonstrating the potential for significant gains.
Lugia (non-holographic) is another prime candidate for grading. With a raw price of $79.60, and assuming a similar $59.99 grading fee, the total investment is around $139.59. The break-even point for this investment would be just under $140. The real magic happens with a PSA 10 grade, which sells for a median of $3,083. This translates into an impressive 522.7% Grading ROI and a profit of $2240.37. These figures highlight that while the raw market for the 2001 Topps Johto set is interesting, the true long-term value and potential for significant returns often lie in identifying and grading these key cards. The difference between raw and Gem Mint graded conditions is astronomical, making grading a strategic imperative for serious collectors and investors alike.
Buying Strategy for 2026
| Card | Play | Why | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azumarill [Holo] | Buy | Highest raw value ($440.00); strong demand for unslabbed cards. | Moderate |
| Shuckle [Holo] | Buy | Second-highest raw value ($265.59); unique Pokémon appeal; sought after raw. | Moderate |
| Lugia (249) | Grade | Highest PSA 10 value ($3,083) and ROI (522.7%); significant upside potential from raw acquisition. | Moderate |
| Gligar [Holo] | Grade | Excellent PSA 10 value ($2,087) and ROI (614.4%); strong profit margins on graded cards. | Moderate |
| Lugia [Holo] | Hold | Strong raw value ($133.54); iconic Pokémon; consider for unslabbed collection or future grading if data emerges. | Low to Moderate |
| Checklist [Holo] | Hold | Niche appeal for set completionists; solid raw value ($91.75), but limited graded upside potential. | Low |
Pro Tip: For collectors targeting the 2001 Topps Johto set in 2026, a dual strategy focusing on both top-tier raw holographic cards and strategically grading key Pokémon like Lugia and Gligar offers the most balanced approach. The raw market is led by cards like Azumarill [Holo] and Shuckle [Holo], representing significant investments for unslabbed collections. Simultaneously, the exceptional ROI on graded Lugia (PSA 10 at $3,083) and Gligar [Holo] (PSA 10 at $2,087) indicates substantial potential for profit and long-term value appreciation, making raw acquisition with a grading intention a wise move for those seeking maximum return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable raw card from the 2001 Topps Johto set in 2026?
The most valuable raw card from the 2001 Topps Johto set in 2026 is Azumarill [Holo] (Card #184), which has a verified raw price of $440.00.
Which 2001 Topps Johto cards offer the best grading return on investment?
Gligar [Holo] (Card #207) offers an outstanding Grading ROI of 614.4%, with a PSA 10 fetching $2,087. Lugia (Card #249, non-holo) also shows a strong 522.7% ROI for a PSA 10 valued at $3,083.
How does the graded value of Lugia compare to its holographic counterpart in this set?
The non-holographic Lugia (Card #249) in PSA 10 condition is significantly more valuable, with a median price of $3,083, compared to Lugia [Holo] (Card #249) which has a raw price of $133.54 and no available PSA 10 data.
Are there any non-Pokémon cards that hold significant value in the 2001 Topps Johto set?
Yes, the Checklist [Holo] card (Card #—) is ranked fifth for raw value at $91.75, appealing to set completionists and collectors of unique inclusions.
What is the general price range for the top 10 most valuable 2001 Topps Johto cards in raw condition?
The top 10 most valuable 2001 Topps Johto cards range from $44.93 for Smeargle [Holo] up to $440.00 for Azumarill [Holo] based on raw market prices.
For collectors looking to dive deeper into Pokémon card investment and grading strategies, understanding the nuances of set performance is key. Explore our guides on How to Clean Pokemon Cards Before Grading (2026 Guide) to prepare your cards optimally. For those venturing into the broader Pokémon card market, keep an eye on our Pokémon Card Auction Report: This Week at Goldin for insights into high-value sales and trends across various sets. Understanding these elements will enhance your collecting journey in the exciting world of Pokemon Cards.