WotC Pokemon Black Star Promo Cards #1–10: The Beginning
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Time to read 13 min
The Wizards of the Coast Pokemon Black Star Promo Cards represent one of the most unique and nostalgic eras in Pokémon TCG history. Between July 1999 and March 2003, 53 numbered promo cards—plus the iconic Ancient Mew—were released, each with its own completely different origin story. Unlike traditional sets, these cards were never found in booster packs. You had to experience them.
That’s what makes this set so special. No two cards were obtained the same way, and each one is tied to a specific moment in Pokémon’s explosion into global pop culture.
I still remember mine. November 1999. I bought a ticket to see Pokémon: The First Movie, and along with it came a card stamped with a black star and the word “PROMO.” I didn’t fully understand what I had—but I knew it felt different. That feeling is exactly why these cards still hold serious value more than 25 years later—and why protecting them properly matters more than most collectors realize.
Today, the Pokemon Black Star Promo Cards remain one of the most fascinating subsets in the hobby. Some of the biggest hitters—like Dragonite #5, Entei #34, and Ancient Mew—came from movie promotions and now command four-figure prices in PSA 10. And in the case of Ancient Mew, even subtle variations like the “NINTEDO” error can push values even higher. With values like that, long-term preservation—especially protection from UV exposure and surface damage—has become a key part of serious collecting.
What truly sets this collection apart, though, is how you originally got the cards:
Movie theater giveaways (buy a ticket, receive a promo)
Pokémon League participation (earn cards over multiple weeks)
Mail-in offers (send proof of purchase for exclusive promos)
Retail bundle inclusions (packaged with games, guides, or toys)
Magazine promotions (Nintendo Power, TopDeck, and more)
Each Pokemon Black Star Promo Card isn’t just a collectible—it’s a time capsule. A memory tied to where you were, what you were doing, and how you got it. And as collections mature, many collectors are now pairing graded slabs with added protection solutions like PrismGuard Pro to maintain condition, clarity, and long-term value.
Because there are so many unique stories packed into this set, this guide is broken into a multi-part series to give each group of cards the attention they deserve:
Part 1: Black Star Promos #1–10 — The Beginning of the Promo Era
Part 2: Black Star Promos #11–20 — Contests, Variants & Early Rarities
Part 3: Black Star Promos #21–30 — Retail Releases & League Staples
Part 4: Black Star Promos #31–40 — Movie Tie-Ins & Peak Pokémon Mania
Part 5: Black Star Promos #41–53 — The Final Wave & Hidden Gems
Bonus: Ancient Mew — Variants, Errors & One of the Most Unique Cards Ever Printed
Across this series, we’ll break down every card, how it was originally obtained, and what collectors are paying for them today in 2025 and 2026. Whether you’re chasing a complete set, grading your collection, or making sure your cards stay in top condition for years to come—this is the full story behind the WotC Black Star Promos.
Table of contents
Cards #1-#10: The Beginning of the Black Star Promos
Part 1 of this series covers Black Star Promos #1–10, the foundation of the entire WotC promo era and some of the most nostalgic cards in Pokémon TCG history. Featuring early Pokémon League rewards and iconic movie tie-ins, this group includes standout cards like Pikachu #1, Mewtwo #3, Dragonite #5, and Mew #8. These promos introduced collectors to the idea that some of the most memorable cards weren’t pulled from packs—but earned through real-world experiences. In this section, we break down how each card was originally obtained, why they remain in high demand today, and what they’re worth in 2025–2026. It’s the perfect starting point for collectors looking to understand both the history and how to store Pokémon cards long term to protect their value.
#1 Pikachu
- Release Date: July 1999
- Event: Pokemon League (Season 1 & 2)
The #1 Pikachu Black Star Promo is the card that started it all. A small number of 1st Edition copies were secretly inserted into 1st Edition Jungle booster packs beginning June 16, 1999. The unlimited version was then distributed through the early seasons of the official Pokemon TCG League starting in August 1999. Featuring the franchise's mascot in a classic pose, this card is the foundational starting point of the entire Black Star Promo run and a must-have for any set collector.
This is officially the very first WotC Black Star Promo ever released — and a small number of 1st Edition stamped copies exist, making them among the rarest variants in the entire set.
Current Value (as of 3/20/26):
- Raw: $9-$25
- PSA 9: $75
- PSA 10: $840
#2 Electabuzz
- Release Date: November 10, 1999
- Event: Pokemon: The First Movie Theater Giveaway
#2 Electabuzz Black Star Promo was one of four cards handed out at theaters showing Pokemon: The First Movie beginning November 10, 1999. Fans who purchased a ticket received one of four possible promos at random — Electabuzz, Mewtwo, Pikachu, or Dragonite. The randomized distribution made trading these cards on the playground the next day a genuine event. Electabuzz carries the "Kids WB Presents" stamp and remains one of the most nostalgic cards in the entire set.
All four movie promos (#2-#5) share the same release date of November 10, 1999 — the opening day of Pokemon: The First Movie in US theaters.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $5-$12
- PSA 9: $65
- PSA 10: $500
#3 Mewtwo
- Release Date: November 10, 1999
- Event: Pokemon: The First Movie Theater Giveaway
#3 Mewtwo Black Star Promo was the most coveted of the four movie theater promos. As the villain of the film, Mewtwo was everywhere in 1999 — on posters, in the trailers, on every kid's wish list. Getting this specific card at the ticket counter felt like winning the lottery. The "Kids WB Presents" stamp marks it as a genuine theater giveaway, and it remains one of the most emotionally resonant cards in the entire Black Star run for collectors who were there opening weekend.
This is one of three different Mewtwo Black Star Promos in the set — #3, #12, and #14 — each with a different illustration and a different acquisition story.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $15-$30
- PSA 9: $130
- PSA 10: $750
#4 Pikachu
- Release Date: November 10, 1999
- Event: Pokemon: The First Movie Theater Giveaway
The third of the four movie theater promos, this Pikachu features a different pose than #1 and carries the "Kids WB Presents" stamp. It was distributed at the same theaters on the same opening weekend as Electabuzz, Mewtwo, and Dragonite. Getting a Pikachu instead of a Mewtwo was a bittersweet pull for a lot of kids — though 25 years later, collectors want all four equally.
Unlike the #1 Pikachu, this version was never available in Japan during the Base-Fossil era — it didn't reach Japanese players until long after their equivalent format had ended.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $15-$25
- PSA 9: $130
- PSA 10: $800
How to Protect Pokemon Cards
- Release Date: May 1st, 2025
- Event: PrismGuard Pro Debut
PrismGuard Pro is a premium protective solution designed for serious collectors who want to preserve and showcase their cards at the highest level. Built with clarity, durability, and UV resistance in mind, it helps prevent fading, scratches, and long-term damage—ensuring your collection looks as pristine years from now as it does today.
Most collectors assume graded slabs fully protect their cards—but over time, UV light can still fade colors and even discolor labels. That’s exactly why products like PrismGuard Pro exist: to add a true extra layer of defense that standard slabs don’t provide.
Current Value: $19.99
#5 Dragonite
- Release Date: November 10, 1999
- Event: Pokemon: The First Movie Theater Giveaway
The fourth and final movie theater promo, Dragonite was distributed alongside Electabuzz, Mewtwo, and Pikachu at participating theaters on opening weekend of Pokemon: The First Movie. The English numbered version features exclusive new artwork. An earlier unnumbered Japanese version was distributed through ANA (All Nippon Airways) in 1998 as a boarding pass redemption — one of the most unusual distribution methods in Pokemon card history. The English Black Star version is the one most US collectors grew up with. In 2026, PSA 10 copies of Dragonite #5 have become increasingly scarce, with recent sales trending 15-20% higher than 2025 averages.
Dragonite #5 is the sleeper hit of the movie promos. A PSA 10 has cleared $892 on PriceCharting, making it the most valuable numbered Black Star Promo outside of the Entei and Ancient Mew.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $10-$40
- PSA 9: $150
- PSA 10: $1000
#6 Arcanine
- Release Date: February 19, 2000
- Event: Pokemon League (Season 4)
Arcanine was the promo for Season 4 of the Pokemon TCG League, which began February 19, 2000. The card was originally planned for January distribution but was delayed — WotC's Master Trainer confirmed in a February 17 live chat that it had still not yet been distributed. It finally arrived with Season 4 and became the last English Black Star Promo released before Base Set 2. Players who attended league consistently during this window earned one of the more underappreciated promos in the early set.
Arcanine #6 actually released after Mew #8 in real-world order, despite having a lower number — an early example of WotC's promo numbering not matching actual release order.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $10-$30
- PSA 9: $90
- PSA 10: $350
#7 Jigglypuff
- Release Date: November 10, 1999
- Event: Pokemon: The First Movie Theater Giveaway
The fourth and final movie theater promo, Dragonite was distributed alongside Electabuzz, Mewtwo, and Pikachu at participating theaters on opening weekend of Pokemon: The First Movie. The English numbered version features exclusive new artwork. An earlier unnumbered Japanese version was distributed through ANA (All Nippon Airways) in 1998 as a boarding pass redemption — one of the most unusual distribution methods in Pokemon card history. The English Black Star version is the one most US collectors grew up with.
Dragonite #5 is the sleeper hit of the movie promos. A PSA 10 has cleared $892 on PriceCharting, making it the most valuable numbered Black Star Promo outside of the Entei and Ancient Mew.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $15-$40
- PSA 9: $50
- PSA 10: $300
Pokémon: The First Movie Soundtrack — The Hits You Somehow Still Know
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“Don’t Say You Love Me” – M2M
A breakup song… in a Pokémon movie. You didn’t get it, but you felt it. -
“Gotta Catch ’Em All” – Billy Crawford
The remix that made playground battles feel like the Super Bowl. -
“Free Up Your Mind” – Emma Bunton
Yes, Baby Spice was here. No explanation needed. -
“Brother My Brother” – Blessid Union of Souls
The clone fight = your first emotional crisis. -
“Fly With Me” – 98°
Peak boy band energy for absolutely no reason.
#8 Mew (non-holo)
- Release Date: January 8, 2000
- Event: Pokemon League (Season 3)
On January 8, 2000, WotC kicked off Season 3 of the Pokemon TCG League with a press release announcing the release of #8 Mew Black Star Promo — the mythical 151st Pokemon that had been nearly unobtainable in the games. Japan originally received this Mew as a holo rare in their Fossil set, but WotC chose to make it a Black Star Promo instead, claiming Media Factory agreed the card was better suited for a special promotion. The non-holo version came first, rewarding dedicated League players who showed up week after week.
WotC later explained in an April 2000 live chat that they released both a non-holo and holo version because many players didn't want to risk damaging their holos in gameplay — so they gave collectors both options.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $5-$25
- PSA 9: $50
- PSA 10: $275
#9 Mew (holo)
- Release Date: April 1, 2000
- Event: Pokemon League (Season 5)
The holographic version of the Mew Black Star Promo arrived just three months after the non-holo #8, distributed during Season 5 of the Pokemon TCG League which ran from April 1 through May 12, 2000. This was the version Japanese players had already received in their Fossil equivalent set, so American fans were thrilled to finally have an English holo Mew to call their own. The foil treatment makes this card significantly harder to find in high grade — the surface shows wear readily, keeping the PSA 10 population relatively tight.
The holo Mew is one of the best grading candidates in the entire Black Star set. A PSA 9 sells for around $275 and a PSA 10 clears $4000+ — a meaningful premium over the raw price that rewards collectors with near-mint copies.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $50-$100
- PSA 9: $275
- PSA 10: $5000
#10 Meowth
- Release Date: April 10, 2000
- Event: Pokemon Trading Card Game Game Boy Color Bundle
#10 Meowth Black Star Promo was included with the Pokemon Trading Card Game video game for the Game Boy Color, which launched in North America on April 10, 2000. The card was designed specifically to complement the video game — its Cat Punch attack works differently on the physical card than in the game, where the target was chosen completely at random. If you bought the game at retail on launch day, Meowth was in the box. A clean, simple distribution method that tied directly to the product it promoted.
Meowth #10 is a holographic card — the second holo in the Black Star set after Mew #9 — making it a bit more desirable than its modest market value might suggest.
Current Value (as of 3/26):
- Raw: $15-$50
- PSA 9: $300
- PSA 10: $8000
Final Thoughts: The Beginning of Something Bigger
The first ten Black Star Promos aren’t just the start of a set—they’re the foundation of Pokémon collecting as we know it today. From league rewards to movie tie-ins, these cards introduced a completely new idea: that some of the most memorable cards wouldn’t come from packs at all, but from real-world experiences.
Cards like Pikachu #1, Dragonite #5, and Mew #8 didn’t just build collections—they built emotional connections. They were earned, not pulled. And that difference is exactly why they still resonate with collectors more than two decades later.
As values continue to climb—especially in high-grade condition—it’s becoming clearer that preservation matters just as much as acquisition. Whether you’re holding onto raw copies from childhood or investing in graded slabs, keeping these early promos in top condition is what separates a nice collection from a truly elite one.
And we’re just getting started.
In Part 2, we’ll move into one of the most interesting sections of the Black Star Promo set—featuring rare contest cards, unique variants, and some of the hardest promos to track down today.
👉 Up next: Black Star Promos #11–20 — where things start to get really interesting.
Protect Black Star Promo Cards: Even PSA slabs aren’t immune to UV exposure or surface scuffing—adding an extra layer like PrismGuard Pro helps preserve both card condition and label clarity over time.
Prevent Long-Term Fading: Sunlight and indoor lighting can slowly bleach colors and dull holo patterns—UV-resistant protection keeps your Black Star Promo cards looking as vibrant as the day you got them.
Display Without Risk: Whether you’re showcasing your collection or storing it long-term, PrismGuard Pro lets you enjoy your cards without sacrificing protection or value.
If you want to protect your Pokemon Black Star Promo Cards, you can check out protective cases on our store
The Author: Kyle Reynolds
Kyle Reynolds is a lifelong collector with a passion for both sports cards and Pokémon. With years of experience buying, grading, and preserving collectibles, he focuses on helping collectors protect their cards, understand market value, and build collections that last.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many WotC Black Star Promo cards are there?
Wizards of the Coast produced 53 numbered English Black Star Promo cards between July 1999 and March 2003, plus the unnumbered Ancient Mew, which is widely catalogued as #54. That makes 54 total cards in the WotC Black Star Promo set.
What is the most valuable WotC Black Star Promo card?
Ancient Mew (error version with 'NINTEDO' misprint) is the most valuable, with PSA 10 copies selling for $2,300-$2,550. Among the numbered promos, Dragonite #5 and Entei #34 are standouts, with PSA 10s clearing $892 and $672 respectively.
How did you originally get WotC Black Star Promo cards?
Distribution methods varied widely: movie theater giveaways (Pokemon: The First Movie, Movie 2000, Spell of the Unown), Pokemon League participation, retail bundles with N64 games like Pokemon Snap and Stadium, VHS/DVD releases, and even an airline boarding pass redemption in Japan.
Is Ancient Mew worth grading?
Yes. A raw Ancient Mew sells for around $80, while a PSA 10 consistently clears $1,600-$1,800. The card's unique textured finish is prone to scratching, so gem mint examples are genuinely scarce despite the large print run. Grading is strongly recommended for near-mint copies.
How should I store my graded WotC Black Star Promo cards?
Graded slabs need UV protection beyond what the slab itself provides. UV exposure causes label fade and card bleaching over time. Use protective cases with UV-blocking panels for long-term storage and display, especially for high-value cards like Ancient Mew, Dragonite, and Entei.
Are Black Star Promos still rising in value in 2026
Black Star Promos continue to show strength in 2026, especially for high-grade (PSA 10) copies and rarer distribution cards. Recent sales data shows consistent demand—for example, Pikachu #4 PSA 10 sold for around $775 in March 2026, highlighting ongoing collector interest.
