Poliwhirl #38/102 — Base Set Uncommon Card Details

The Poliwhirl #38/102 from the original 1999 Base Set is a cornerstone of any classic Pokémon TCG collection, capturing the essence of the first generation of pocket monsters. As a Stage 1 evolution of the fan-favorite Poliwag, this card represents the early era of Wizards of the Coast production, characterized by the iconic yellow borders and the watercolor-style artistry that defined the franchise's global explosion.

Key Features:

• Set: Base Set
• Card Number: 38/102
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Type: Water
• HP: 60
• Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
• Year: 1999

This specific printing features the standard non-foil finish characteristic of Uncommon cards from the Base Set. The card surface maintains a clean, matte texture that highlights the vibrant blues and the distinct "swirl" pattern of Poliwhirl’s stomach, allowing the legendary artwork of Ken Sugimori to stand at the forefront without the distraction of holographic foil.

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What's Included

• 1x Poliwhirl #38/102 - Base Set - Uncommon - Pokémon Trading Card - TCG Single - Near Mint
  This individual trading card is shipped in a protective penny sleeve inside a rigid toploader. It arrives in the condition described.

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Condition

This card is offered in Near Mint condition, representing a high-grade specimen for discerning collectors. It has been meticulously inspected to ensure it meets our rigorous quality standards. The card is a verified authentic genuine print from the original 1999 run.

• Surface: The card is in excellent condition with no visible whitening on the edges or corners and no surface scratches detected on the front or back.
• Centering: 9.0/10 (left/right 48/52, top/bottom 45/55), indicating exceptional alignment that is well within the tolerances for professional grading.

To ensure this condition is maintained, the card arrives professionally sleeved in a high-clarity penny sleeve and is secured within a rigid toploader to prevent bending or impact damage during transit.

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Why Collectors & Players Love This Card

For many, Poliwhirl is the quintessential Water-type Pokémon, famously recognized as one of the favorite creatures of Pokémon creator Satoshi Tajiri. Its appearance in the Base Set is deeply nostalgic, evoking memories of the very first schoolyard battles and the excitement of opening those early booster packs. The simple yet effective design of the card serves as a perfect example of the "Golden Age" of the TCG.

Gameplay Highlights:

• Amnesia: A strategic tactical move that allows you to choose one of the Defending Pokémon's attacks, preventing them from using it during your opponent's next turn. In early gameplay, this was a powerful way to disable heavy hitters.
• Doubleslap: A classic multi-hit attack that relies on coin flips to deal 30x damage for each head, offering the potential for a surprising 60-damage knockout against opposing Basic Pokémon.

Investment & Collectibility:

Base Set cards continue to see steady appreciation as the supply of high-condition "Near Mint" singles diminishes over time. As a core piece of the 102-card master set, Poliwhirl is essential for collectors looking to complete their vintage binders.

• Ken Sugimori Illustration: The artwork is provided by the primary character designer for the Pokémon series, featuring the definitive, official look of Poliwhirl that has remained consistent for decades.

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About NicestFinds

NicestFinds is your trusted source for retro gaming, Pokemon TCG singles, and pop culture collectibles. Every card in our store is hand-inspected, professionally sleeved, and packaged with care to arrive in the condition described. We're passionate collectors ourselves - so we treat every order the way we'd want our own packages treated. Shop with confidence backed by our 5-star seller reputation.

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Shipping & Packaging

Cards are shipped in a protective penny sleeve inside a rigid toploader, secured in a padded bubble mailer. Orders are dispatched within 1-2 business days. Tracked shipping options are available at checkout.

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