The Story Behind the Cards... Err... Coins: Pokémon Coins!

Though not a trading card game on their own, Pokémon coins are integral to the Pokémon TCG’s gameplay. The plastic and metallic discs act as randomizers for many of the TCG’s core mechanics, such as status affliction, move effects and more. While some TCG players use them for their gameplay functionality, other Pokémon fans and enthusiasts have begun collecting these coins in earnest as a cost-effective way to enjoy the hobby.

The first Pokémon coins were distributed in Base Set Starter Decks and as giveaways to those who participated in Gym challenges in Japan. The first-ever Pokémon coin ever released featured Chansey on the obverse. Many more Pokémon followed, including Arcanine, Onix, Starmie and others. Most of these coins are made of plastic and feature a metallic Pokémon design on the obverse with a black reverse. While Chansey was later released in North America through Base Set theme decks, many of the Japanese coins that were distributed through Gym challenges were never released internationally.

Wizards of the Coast made many metal and cardboard coins for the English release of the TCG, while Japan focused on plastic coins. When The Pokémon Company took over production of the Pokémon TCG in 2003, they began making nearly every coin from plastic. They feature a Pokémon in a metallic design on the obverse, while the reverse is typically black or silver and has the Pokémon TCG’s name and copyright text. Now, metal coins are saved for distribution in special collections, such as Super Premium Collection boxes or anniversary collections. The Pokémon Company has also introduced other types of Pokémon coins, such as Pokémon Battle Coins.

Although Pokémon coins are now generally unfavored by Pokémon TCG players, who prefer dice as their randomization tools, they are gaining recognition as a collectible among Pokémon fans and enthusiasts. CGC began accepting submissions of plastic and metal Pokémon coins for authentication, grading and encapsulation in late 2024, and has since certified more than 7,900 from multiple generations and languages, according to the CGC Cards Population Report.

Are you a Pokémon coin collector? Consider sending your coins to CGC for expert authentication, grading and encapsulation! Not only do our industry-leading holders protect your coins, but they’re also easily stackable and provide a seamless storage solution. Go here to learn how to submit.

About CGC

Since revolutionizing comic book grading in 2000, CGC has grown to include certification services for a vast variety of pop culture collectibles. These divisions include CGC Cards, CGC Video Games and CGC Home Video. CGC Cards provides expert card grading for sports cards, TCGs and non-sports cards. CGC Video Games is dedicated to video game grading for the most popular consoles, including Nintendo, Sega, Atari, PlayStation and more. CGC Home Video provides expert VHS grading in addition to other types of videocassettes, DVD, Blu-ray and more. CGC also offers seamless solutions for autograph collectors with CGC Signature Series and JSA Authentic Autograph services.

CGC is part of the Certified Collectibles Group, a global provider of expert and impartial authentication and grading services for collectibles. Since 1987, the Certified Collectibles Group companies have certified more than 110 million collectibles, including coins, banknotes, comic books, cards, autographs and stamps.