CGC Trading Cards Registry Featured Set: Wizards of the Coast Black Star Promos

The first Pokémon promo cards were distributed by Wizards of the Coast, who published the English release of the Pokémon Trading Card Game until 2003. These Black Star Promos were obtained in a variety of ways. For example, some cards were given out for participating in the Pokémon League, while others came with the purchase of a ticket to the latest Pokémon movie. Collecting these cards was almost like a scavenger hunt!

This set features artwork by some of the most celebrated Pokémon illustrators. Ken Sugimori, the primary art director for the Pokémon franchise, has created artwork for several of these cards. Atsuko Nishida, designer of several iconic Pokémon characters, including Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle, also had a hand in designing some of these promos. The set even features artwork by Kagemaru Himeno, whose instantly recognizable artwork has been featured on over 600 cards since first appearing in the Jungle expansion.

Matt_’s Wizards of the Coast Black Star Promos set is an impressive 79% complete with all cards graded CGC 8 or higher, including three CGC Pristine 10s. Some of Matt_’s set comes from his childhood collection, making the impeccable preservation even more impressive. That’s a long time to hang onto a Pokémon card!

Some of the most prominent cards in Matt_’s collection includes the Moltres, Articuno, and Zapdos error variants which list Toshinao Aoki as the illustrator. Aoki was the artist for the Japanese versions of these cards, and while his artwork is featured in the set elsewhere, these English cards were actually illustrated by Naoyo Kimura! Check out the set here!

Q&A with the collector

CGC Trading Cards had the opportunity to interview Matt_ for a Q&A about the set, future collecting goals and thoughts about the CGC Trading Cards Registry.

How did you become interested in collecting Pokémon cards?

I was a kid when Pokémon started and, like most kids, Pokémon really captivated me. I watched the TV show, played Pokémon Red and Blue, and collecting Pokémon cards was another part of that experience. There was also a Pokémon League in town, and I would go on the weekends to buy, trade and play with others.

What is your favorite Pokémon character and why?

Pokémon has been around so long that I have many favorites! But if I have to choose one — and it’s difficult — I’ll choose Bulbasaur. When I first played Pokémon Red and Blue, I picked Bulbasaur as my starting Pokémon, and going on that journey with them was very memorable.

What makes this set unique or special to you?

To me, this set is both unique and special. It’s special because some of these early cards come from my own experience. I received the Pikachu while playing in the Pokémon League and the Mewtwo Strikes Back cards when I saw the movie. The set is unique because it covers the early history of Pokémon. It spans movie releases, the Pokémon League, giveaways and other events, which makes this a very unique set.

What card do you most want to add to this set?

Although I would like to have an Inverted Stamp or a No Stamp card, I think a more realistic card that I’d like to add is a 1st Edition Pikachu Error card.

How has the CGC Registry helped you reach your collecting goals?

The best thing about the Registry is that it makes it easy to keep track of my collection online and provides a clear picture of what cards I might be missing from a set. I also think it’s a great way to build the community and gives you an opportunity to see other collectors’ sets.

About the CGC Trading Cards Registry

Launched in April 2022, The CGC Trading Cards Registry is the newest edition to the suite of CCG collectibles registries. Since launch, hundreds of collectors have registered nearly 3,000 competitive sets. We’re grateful for such a successful start and unmatched enthusiasm among collectors.

The CGC Trading Cards Registry continues to grow daily; we’ve released dozens of new sets in the weeks since launch and are actively working to fulfill new set and slot requests. We welcome all your requests! It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to learn about your collecting interests.

The CGC Trading Cards Registry is a free online platform where collectors can register and display CGC-certified trading cards, compete with other collectors and get inspired. The CGC Trading Cards Registry is also a great organizational tool for your collection. Begin adding your CGC-certified trading cards in the CGC Trading Cards Registry here.

We are just getting started! If you don’t see a set for your cards, please request a set. You may also review our CGC Trading Cards Registry FAQs for details on how to make requests for new sets and slots.

The CGC Trading Cards Registry team is here to help. Questions or comments? Want to connect with other collectors? Visit the CGC Trading Card and Registry Chatboards!

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