Why Collectors Chase Hitmonchan ex First Edition Variant

In TCG ·

Hitmonchan ex card art from Ruby & Sapphire (EX1-98)

Image courtesy of TCGdex.net

Chasing a holo icon from the early EX era

Among the most coveted pieces of the Ruby & Sapphire collection, the Hitmonchan ex from ex1 stands out not just for its striking holo finish, but for the story it tells about a time when EX cards redefined power, rarity, and collectibility. With a modest 90 HP and a pair of old-school, high-energy attacks, this Fighting-type standout embodies the balance of nostalgia and competitiveness that keeps collectors glued to their binders. Its holo treatment—present in the standard and reverse print lines—adds a shimmering layer that catches the eye from across a binder page, sparking conversations about print runs, condition, and value. ⚡

On the table, Hitmonchan ex plays a classic role: a nimble, punch-heavy attacker that rewards a little luck and a lot of timing. Its first listed attack, Steady Punch, costs a single Fighting energy and offers a coin flip-based payoff. If the coin lands heads, you deal 10 damage plus an extra 10, turning a simple opener into a potentially double-digit surprise. The second attack, Sky Uppercut, costs two Fighting energies and one Colorless, delivering 50 damage with the important caveat that its damage isn’t reduced by Resistance. In the hands of a patient trainer, this card can swing momentum in the midgame, especially when you’re weaving along the edge of knockout lines or pressuring an opponent into defensive plays. The card’s Psychic weakness at ×2 remains a reminder that balance—like a well-timed coin flip—can tilt a game in an instant. 🎴

Variant dynamics: holo versus non-holo, and why collectors chase the holo

In the ex1 set, Hitmonchan ex is listed with multiple print variants: holo, normal, and reverse, with no first edition designation for this particular print. For collectors, the holo version is the crown jewel. The holo finish amplifies the card’s visual impact, turning a tactical statline into a tangible symbol of a player’s or collection’s depth. While the non-holo versions remain attractive, the holo carries a premium—part nostalgia, part scarcity, part the enduring appeal of holo stamps from the EX era. The absence of a 1st Edition tag doesn’t dampen the chase; rather, it makes the holo variant a focal point for condition-conscious collectors who seek the glimmer and the story behind it. 💎

Market data offers a snapshot of how this variant is valued across regions and marketplaces. Non-holo Hitmonchan ex cards typically sit in a more accessible price range, often around the €30–€40 mark on card-market platforms depending on condition. The holo print, however, tends to command a higher premium, with modern TCG marketplaces reporting prices that align with premium mid-range to high-grade collectibles. In U.S. markets, TCGplayer data shows holo Hitmonchan ex listings trending toward the mid-to-high $60s and climbing into the $80s–$90s ranges as condition and market demand align. Card-market values have demonstrated fluctuations, with older holo EX cards frequently spiking around new reprint cycles or in response to graded sales. For a card with the striking art by Hiromichi Sugiyama and a classic double-punch move, the premium reflects not just the play value but the emotional connection to the era. 🔥

Art, illustrator, and the lore of the era

Hitmonchan ex carries illustration by Hiromichi Sugiyama, whose dynamic line work and kinetic poses capture the immediacy of a street-fighter’s precision. The artwork emphasizes motion—fists poised, a stance suggesting both offense and defense—an impression that resonates with players who relish timing and rhythm in the Pokémon TCG. This is more than a card; it’s a snapshot of an era when ex cards pushed the boundaries of power and art simultaneously. The holo variant amplifiesSugiyama’s impact, letting the light carry the energy of a single-ready uppercut into the hands of a collector who treasures both playability and aesthetics. 🎨

Strategic takeaways for players and investors

From a gameplay perspective, Hitmonchan ex is a compact but interesting option in the right Fighting-heavy lineups. Its Steady Punch rewards a push of tempo when heads come up, and Sky Uppercut provides a straightforward finisher that can pressure an opponent’s board state. The synergy with multi-Fighting costs makes it a candidate for decks that leverage quick pokes and mid-game pressure, particularly in formats where EX-era mechanics are allowed. The card’s weakness to Psychic ×2 is not just a vulnerability; it informs matchup planning and tech choices in decks that want to keep Hitmonchan ex healthy while navigating threats from Psychic attackers. Let the coin flip guide your tempo, but always respect the colorless cost that invites a flexible energy base. ⚡

For the collector, this holo Hitmonchan ex is a reminder of print quality, scarcity, and the emotional pull of the era. The card’s rarity label—Rare in a holo print—signals a balanced possibility: strong play value in some decks, and a strong hold value for others. The presence of reverse and normal variants further widens display opportunities for collectors who like to showcase a full EX-era line. And with Hiromichi Sugiyama’s signature look catching the light, it’s easy to see why this card remains a centerpiece for both display and deck-building conversations. 🎴

Five reasons to chase this variant

  • Iconic holo finish that captures the era’s visual energy ⚡
  • Solid in-play potential with a flexible two-attack setup 🎮
  • Illustration by a respected artist, delivering a dynamic, collectible charm 🎨
  • Scarcity in holo print compared to mass-printed non-holo variants 💎
  • Strong market interest reflected in competitive pricing across platforms 🔥

Whether you’re chasing a complete EX-era holo collection, cobbling together a playable deck, or simply seeking a striking centerpiece for display, Hitmonchan ex from Ruby & Sapphire remains a remarkable bridge between a beloved show era and modern collecting sensibilities. Its balance of playability, rarity, and art makes it a card that many fans return to again and again, drawn by the glow of the holo and the punch of its core mechanic. 🎴

Engage with the modern marketplace by considering condition, authenticity, and grading history when evaluating a holo Hitmonchan ex. The blend of playability value and collector prestige often makes it a wise addition for a diverse Pokémon TCG collection. And as the market continues to evolve, those who seek the story behind the card—its print run, its glow, and its place in the history of EX sets—will find that this piece always has a narrative worth chasing. 💎

Ready to bring a touch of that classic EX energy into your everyday carry? Explore this striking holo and consider pairing it with a modern setup that respects the power plays of its two-attacks toolkit.

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