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Top 10 Most Valuable 2004 Starter Deck Pokemon Cards (2026)
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The 2004 Starter Deck Pokemon card market shows significant value concentrated in its Charizard EX variations, with the 1st Edition Holo reaching a PSA 10 median of $7,229, significantly outperforming other entries. Understanding these top performers is crucial for collectors aiming to maximize their investment potential within this specific release.
The landscape for 2004 Starter Deck Pokemon cards has solidified, with elite Charizard EX variants commanding premium prices. Based on 90-day eBay sold data and PriceCharting comps, the top 10 2004 Starter Deck cards range from $14.69 raw for Bulbasaur [1st Edition] to a remarkable $7,229 for the Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition] in PSA 10 condition. This data highlights the enduring appeal of these iconic Pokemon and the strategic value found in graded early-release staples. Last updated: October 2026.
In This Article
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The Top 10 2004 Starter Deck Market Data
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1. Charizard ex [Holo 1st Edition] (12)
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2. Charizard ex [Holo] (12)
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3. Squirtle (17)
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4. Blastoise ex [Holo 1st Edition] (20)
The Top 10 2004 Starter Deck Market Data
| # | Card | Set | PSA 10 | PSA 9 | Raw | Grading ROI | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Charizard EX [Holo] | 2004 Starter Deck | $7,191 | — | $133.36 | 751.0% | — |
| 2 | Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition] | 2004 Starter Deck | $7,229 | — | $99.42 | 797.1% | — |
| 3 | Squirtle | 2004 Starter Deck | $1,271 | — | $95.00 | 527.0% | — |
| 4 | Venusaur EX [Holo 1st Edition] | 2004 Starter Deck | $263.00 | — | $77.37 | 62.2% | — |
| 5 | Charmander [1st Edition] | 2004 Starter Deck | — | — | $45.00 | — | — |
| 6 | Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition] | 2004 Starter Deck | $2,340 | — | $29.50 | 786.0% | — |
| 7 | Blastoise EX [Holo] | 2004 Starter Deck | $269.99 | — | $27.00 | 163.0% | — |
| 8 | Venusaur EX [Holo] | 2004 Starter Deck | $359.85 | — | $19.99 | 283.6% | — |
| 9 | Bulbasaur | 2004 Starter Deck | $192.00 | — | $18.00 | 106.6% | — |
| 10 | Bulbasaur [1st Edition] | 2004 Starter Deck | $457.76 | — | $14.69 | 424.5% | — |
Data sources: What The Slab checks eBay sold comps, PriceCharting market prices. All figures as of October 2026.
1. Charizard ex [Holo 1st Edition] (12)
The undisputed king of the 2004 Starter Deck, Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition], holds the top spot with a staggering PSA 10 median of $7,229. This card’s raw price of $99.42, combined with its incredible graded value, results in a phenomenal 797.1% Grading ROI, translating to a profit of $5566.96 on a graded gem. The scarcity of 1st Edition cards, coupled with Charizard’s perennial popularity, creates a potent combination for collectors and investors alike. While its raw price is substantial, the potential return on investment for a perfectly graded example is exceptionally high. For those aiming for the absolute pinnacle of this deck’s value, securing a PSA 10 Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition] is the ultimate goal.
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2. Charizard EX [Holo] (12)
Following incredibly closely is the non-1st Edition Holo variant of Charizard EX, listed at rank two. Its PSA 10 median price is $7,191, just shy of its 1st Edition counterpart, but still represents a monumental value within this deck. The raw price for this version sits at $133.36, a notable increase from the 1st Edition, which paradoxically lowers its Grading ROI to 751.0%, yielding a profit of $5500.03. This price dynamic is interesting: while the raw card is more expensive, the 1st Edition variant commands a higher premium when graded. Regardless, this card remains a top-tier collectible from the 2004 Starter Deck, offering immense upside for graded collectors. Its presence at the very top of the list underscores Charizard’s unmatched market power.
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3. Squirtle (17)
Squirtle, the Water-type starter from the 2004 set, makes a surprisingly strong showing at rank three. Its raw price is $95.00, and it achieves a PSA 10 median of $1,271. This results in a substantial Grading ROI of 527.0%, with a profit of $922.20. The data indicates that even non-EX, non-holo starter Pokemon can hold significant value if they are integral to the base set and have a dedicated collector following. Squirtle’s inclusion this high up suggests a strong demand for these foundational Pokemon, particularly in pristine, graded condition. For collectors interested in building a complete set or focusing on the iconic Kanto starters, this Squirtle card represents a key investment piece with excellent graded potential.
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4. Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition] (20)
Claiming the fourth spot is Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition]. This card presents a compelling investment opportunity with a raw price of $29.50 and a PSA 10 median reaching $2,340. This combination yields an impressive Grading ROI of 786.0%, translating to a profit of $1795.95. The significant jump in value from raw to PSA 10 suggests that collectors are actively seeking out the highest grades for this powerful Water-type starter. The “1st Edition” marker adds a crucial layer of rarity and desirability, driving its market performance. For those looking to capitalize on the starter Pokemon trio within the 2004 Starter Deck, Blastoise EX is a prime candidate for grading and potential profit.
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5. Venusaur EX [Holo 1st Edition] (4)
Venusaur EX [Holo 1st Edition] secures the fifth position on our list. With a raw price of $77.37 and a PSA 10 median of $263.00, it offers a modest Grading ROI of 62.2%, resulting in a profit of $85.39. While its ROI is lower compared to the top-tier Charizard and Blastoise cards, it still represents a positive return on investment. The raw price is relatively high, potentially indicating strong market demand for the ungraded card itself. Collectors who acquire this card raw and manage to achieve a PSA 10 grade can expect a solid, albeit smaller, profit margin. Its 1st Edition status contributes to its value, making it a desirable piece for completing the EX starter trio.
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6. Blastoise EX [Holo] (20)
The non-1st Edition Holo variant of Blastoise EX ranks sixth. It features a raw price of $27.00 and a PSA 10 median of $269.99. This yields a Grading ROI of 163.0%, with a profit of $141.83. While its graded value is significantly lower than its 1st Edition counterpart, it still offers a healthy return for collectors who grade it. The raw price is quite accessible, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking to acquire a graded Blastoise EX from the 2004 Starter Deck. The difference between the 1st Edition and non-1st Edition of the same card highlights the premium collectors place on those early printings. This card remains a solid buy for its graded potential.
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7. Venusaur EX [Holo] (4)
Venusaur EX [Holo], the non-1st Edition version, lands at number seven. Its raw price is $19.99, and it commands a PSA 10 median of $359.85. This presents a strong Grading ROI of 283.6%, resulting in a profit of $226.79. This card demonstrates that even without the 1st Edition stamp, the Holo EX versions of the starter Pokemon can achieve impressive returns when graded. The relatively low raw price combined with a solid PSA 10 valuation makes it an attractive target for collectors focused on grading. Its performance indicates a consistent demand across all variations of the powerful EX starter Pokemon from this set.
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8. Bulbasaur [1st Edition] (2)
Bulbasaur [1st Edition] carves out a spot at number eight, showcasing the value potential even in base starter Pokemon cards when they are 1st Edition. Its raw price is $14.69, and it achieves a PSA 10 median of $457.76. This is a remarkable Grading ROI of 424.5%, yielding a profit of $317.03. This data point is crucial for understanding the market dynamics of the 2004 Starter Deck: 1st Edition status significantly boosts the value of even common Pokemon in high grades. For collectors aiming to complete the Kanto starters with a focus on pristine condition and first print runs, this Bulbasaur card is a compelling acquisition.
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9. Bulbasaur (1)
The standard, non-1st Edition Bulbasaur card ranks ninth. It has a raw price of $18.00 and a PSA 10 median of $192.00. This results in a Grading ROI of 106.6%, with a profit of $83.17. While its graded value is considerably lower than its 1st Edition counterpart and the EX cards, it still offers a positive return on investment. The accessible raw price makes it an attractive option for collectors looking to complete their 2004 Starter Deck without breaking the bank. Its presence on this list underscores the baseline demand for all Kanto starters in excellent condition.
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10. Charmander [1st Edition] (9)
Rounding out the top ten is Charmander [1st Edition]. This card is listed with a raw price of $45.00. Notably, there is no data available for its PSA 10 median grade. Despite this data gap, its raw price alone places it within the higher value tier of the 2004 Starter Deck. The absence of graded price data means its Grading ROI cannot be calculated, but its raw value suggests strong collector interest in its 1st Edition status. For collectors who find this card raw, it represents an opportunity to potentially add value through grading, though the exact return is currently unknown without further market data.
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The Grading ROI Play
The 2004 Starter Deck offers a clear path to profit for those willing to invest in grading, especially with its most powerful cards. The standout performer in terms of raw potential is Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition]. With a raw price of $99.42 and a PSA 10 median of $7,229, the profit potential is immense, sitting at $5566.96 with a 797.1% ROI. For a collector who acquires this card raw, the decision to grade is almost a foregone conclusion if they can secure a high grade.
Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition] also presents a compelling case for grading. Its raw price of $29.50, paired with a PSA 10 median of $2,340, offers a significant profit of $1795.95 and a 786.0% Grading ROI. The margin between raw purchase and graded sale for this card is substantial, making it a prime target for grading-focused investors.
Even Squirtle, a non-EX, non-holo card, showcases strong grading potential. At a raw price of $95.00 and a PSA 10 median of $1,271, it yields a profit of $922.20 with a 527.0% ROI. This indicates that pristine, 1st Edition versions of even seemingly common starter Pokemon can become highly valuable once professionally graded, justifying the grading fees and effort. For any of these cards, the cost of grading via PSA’s standard service at $59.99 (90-100 business days) is easily absorbed by the profit margin when achieving a PSA 10 grade.
Buying Strategy for 2026
| Card | Play | Why | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition] | BUY & GRADE | Highest PSA 10 value ($7,229) and ROI (797.1%). Strongest contender for maximum profit. | Moderate |
| Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition] | BUY & GRADE | Excellent PSA 10 value ($2,340) and ROI (786.0%). Solid profit potential with a more accessible raw price than Charizard. | Moderate |
| Squirtle | BUY & GRADE | High PSA 10 value ($1,271) and strong ROI (527.0%). Appeals to set collectors and those seeking high-grade starters. | Moderate |
| Venusaur EX [Holo 1st Edition] | BUY & HOLD | Decent PSA 10 value ($263.00) and ROI (62.2%). Lower graded upside than top starters, but 1st Edition status provides a floor. | Low to Moderate |
| Venusaur EX [Holo] | BUY & GRADE | Good PSA 10 value ($359.85) and strong ROI (283.6%). Accessible raw price makes it a great grading candidate for the EX Venusaur. | Moderate |
| Bulbasaur [1st Edition] | BUY & HOLD | Strong raw price ($14.69) with significant PSA 10 value ($457.76) and ROI (424.5%). Excellent for collectors focused on 1st Edition starters. | Low to Moderate |
| Charmander [1st Edition] | HOLD/WATCH | High raw price ($45.00) with unknown PSA 10 potential. Wait for more graded sales data before grading investment. | High |
Pro Tip: The 2004 Starter Deck’s value is heavily skewed towards graded cards, particularly the Charizard EX and Blastoise EX variants, and especially their 1st Edition printings. While raw cards can be acquired at reasonable prices, the real financial potential lies in achieving a PSA 10 grade. Focus your grading efforts on the highest-ranked cards, as their profit margins far outweigh the costs associated with professional grading. For lesser-ranked cards like the non-EX starters, focus on acquiring them raw if you’re a set completionist, or only consider grading if the PSA 10 market shows a significant premium over the raw purchase price and grading fees. Always consult recent sold listings to confirm market trends before making any significant purchasing or grading decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable card in the 2004 Starter Deck?
The most valuable card in the 2004 Starter Deck is the Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition], which commands a PSA 10 median price of $7,229. It also has an exceptional raw price of $99.42, contributing to its status as the top performer.
Are 1st Edition cards from the 2004 Starter Deck worth more?
Yes, 1st Edition cards from the 2004 Starter Deck generally hold significantly higher value, especially when graded. For example, Charizard EX [Holo 1st Edition] has a higher PSA 10 median ($7,229) and a better Grading ROI (797.1%) compared to its non-1st Edition counterpart.
What is the Grading ROI for Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition]?
The Blastoise EX [Holo 1st Edition] boasts an impressive Grading ROI of 786.0%. With a raw price of $29.50 and a PSA 10 median of $2,340, this card offers substantial profit potential for graded collectors.
How much does it cost to grade a Pokemon card in 2026?
The cost for grading a Pokemon card in 2026 varies by service level and turnaround time. PSA’s Standard service, for example, costs $59.99 for cards valued up to $1,000 and takes 90-100 business days. It’s crucial to factor in these grading fees when calculating potential profit from grading.
Should I buy raw cards or graded cards from the 2004 Starter Deck?
For investment purposes, buying high-potential raw cards and getting them graded can yield the best returns, as seen with the Charizard EX and Blastoise EX variants. However, for collectors prioritizing immediate display and condition assurance, purchasing PSA 10 graded cards offers a direct way to acquire top-tier collectibles.
The 2004 Starter Deck continues to be a significant release for Pokemon TCG collectors and investors. While the Charizard EX variants dominate the top of the market, other cards like Squirtle and the non-EX starter evolutions in pristine condition offer compelling value. For those looking to delve deeper into the market for older Pokemon releases, our guide on the Top 10 Most Valuable 2003 Topps Advanced Pokemon Cards (2026) provides further insights into valuable vintage sets. Explore more insights on rare Pokemon cards at /pokemon-cards/.