The “Original 151” Pokémon cards aren’t one single product. Collectors use “151” to describe several ways to build the first Pokédex as a complete set. Here’s a clean breakdown so you can choose the version that fits your budget and goals.
Max Holo / 45-Holo (Base, Jungle, Fossil)
This includes every possible holographic version available across the 1999 Base Set, Jungle, and Fossil. Raichu, Zapdos, and Magneton only exist as holos in Base, so there are no non-holo substitutes for those three. This is the most premium way to display the 151.
25+ and 20+ Holo Variants (same 151, fewer holos)
Same Pokémon roster from Base/Jungle/Fossil, but you choose how many holos your set contains. The only card from outside those sets should be the Wizards of the Coast Black Star Promo Mew (available in holo and non-holo).
- 25+ holo: at least twenty-five holos
- 20+ holo: at least twenty holos
Select 20+, 25+, or 45 on the product page: Original 151 Complete Set (choose holo count)
MP-DMG 151 Sets (budget, 16–20 holos)
Great for collectors who want originals at a lower price. These include wear such as whitening, creases, or edge chips, and typically ship with between 16 and 20 holos.
Mixed Vintage 151 (1999–2003 blend)
Built from multiple Wizards of the Coast–era expansions (1999–2003). Holo count can range from zero up to 45 depending on the build. Cheapest way to keep a vintage feel without the cost of a pure 1999 build.
Modern 151 Variations (lowest cost entry)
Uses modern reprints or modern cards featuring the Original 151. Artwork and foiling are updated, and price is significantly lower than vintage.
Minimum Holo Count in a “True” 151
A strict Base/Jungle/Fossil 151 with no holo variants would still require a minimum of 13 holos (because Base’s Raichu, Zapdos, and Magneton only exist as holos, and Jungle/Fossil have required holos across the roster). Everything else can be non-holo, with the Promo Mew filling slot #151.
Which 151 should you buy?
- Best display: 45-Holo “Max Holo”
- Balanced value: 20+ or 25+ holo
- Budget vintage: MP-DMG or Mixed Vintage
- Cheapest 151 experience: Modern
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not financial advice. Market conditions can change and errors may occur.