Squirtle #170/165 - 151 - Illustration rare - Pokémon Trading Card - TCG Single - Near Mint

Card Details

The Squirtle #170/165 from the Scarlet & Violet: 151 expansion is a breathtaking masterpiece that captures the playful spirit of the original Kanto Water-type starter. As part of the highly coveted Illustration Rare sub-set, this card is a must-have for both nostalgia-driven collectors and modern TCG enthusiasts looking to complete the ultimate 151 master set.

Key Features:

• Set: 151
• Card Number: 170/165
• Rarity: Illustration rare
• Type: Water
• HP: 60
• Illustrator: Mitsuhiro Arita
• Year: 2023

This Illustration Rare card features stunning, full-bleed artwork that extends to the very edges of the card, removing the traditional yellow border to allow the environment to shine. The card is treated with a beautiful holographic foil finish that creates a shimmering effect across the entire surface, making the sunlight-dappled water behind Squirtle appear to move as you tilt the card in the light. The watercolor-inspired art style provides a premium, high-end feel that distinguishes it from standard rare pulls.

What's Included

• 1x Squirtle #170/165 - 151 - Illustration rare - 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.

Condition

This card is offered in Near Mint condition, having been handled with extreme care since being pulled. We have performed a multi-point inspection to ensure it meets the high standards of premium collectors. This is a verified authentic print, ensuring you are adding a genuine piece of Pokemon TCG history to your vault. The card appears extremely clean with no visible whitening on the corners or edges of the back, and the surface appears free of scratches or print lines.

• Surface: Near Mint (Clean, glossy finish with no visible scuffs or scratches).
• Centering: 9.0/10 (Left/Right is a perfect 50/50, while Top/Bottom is approximately 45/55).

To preserve this pristine state, your Squirtle arrives professionally sleeved in a clear penny sleeve and secured within a rigid, acid-free toploader to prevent bending or environmental damage during transit.

Why Collectors & Players Love This Card

Squirtle has remained a cultural icon since the late 90s, and this card pays homage to that legacy through the eyes of legendary artist Mitsuhiro Arita. Arita-san is the same illustrator responsible for the iconic Base Set Charizard, and his return to draw the Squirtle evolution line in the 151 set has made these specific Illustration Rares some of the most sought-after cards in the modern era. The scene depicts Squirtle swimming joyfully, offering a serene and beautiful perspective that standard cards simply cannot match.

Gameplay Highlights:

• Withdraw: A classic strategic move where a coin flip can prevent all damage done to Squirtle by attacks during your opponent's next turn, providing excellent early-game stall potential.
• Skull Bash: A reliable Water-energy attack that deals 20 base damage, perfect for chipping away at an opponent's HP while preparing to evolve into Wartortle or Blastoise ex.

Investment & Collectibility:

The "151" set has proven to be one of the most significant releases in Pokemon history, bridging the gap between vintage fans and new players. Because this card is a "Secret" Illustration Rare (numbered 170/165, exceeding the standard set list), its pull rate is significantly lower than standard rares, ensuring its long-term value and desirability.

• Arita Pedigree: Cards illustrated by Mitsuhiro Arita traditionally hold their value better than almost any other artist in the franchise due to his historical significance to the brand.

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.

Shipping & Packaging

Cards are shipped in a protective penny sleeve inside a rigid toploader, secured in a padded bubble mailer to ensure maximum protection. We understand that condition is everything, so we use reinforced packaging to prevent shifting. Orders are dispatched within 1-2 business days. Tracked shipping options are available at checkout to give you peace of mind from our door to yours.

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