Stars from the Shadows: Why Gyarados & Pikachu Star Cards Deserve a Spot in Your Collection
If you're chasing the rarest and most visually striking Pokémon cards ever made, look no further than the elusive Pokémon Star cards. Introduced during the EX era, these cards are famous for their shiny alternate colorations and extremely limited print runs. Today, we spotlight two iconic stars: Gyarados Star and Pikachu Star—both from the fan-favorite Holon Phantoms set.
Gyarados Star – A Delta Species Monster
The Gyarados Star from Holon Phantoms is not your typical Water-type. As a Delta Species Pokémon, it features a Dark-type twist on the familiar sea serpent. With gold accents, shimmering blue foil, and an aggressive pose, this card is among the most prized of all Pokémon Star variants.
- From the 2006 EX Holon Phantoms set
- Delta Species variant: Dark-type instead of Water
- Extremely rare pull rate (1 in 2 booster boxes or worse!)
Pikachu Star – The Holy Grail for Pikachu Collectors
Pikachu Star might be one of the smallest Pokémon in the game, but it packs one of the biggest collector punches. This yellow-starred beauty features a shiny Pikachu in reverse foil and remains one of the hardest Pikachu cards to find in good condition.
- Also from Holon Phantoms (2006)
- Shiny gold coloring with classic red cheeks
- A top target for Pikachu-focused collections
Why Pokémon Star Cards Matter
Pokémon Star cards were inserted randomly and infrequently, making them legendary among EX-era fans. Only one Star card could appear per booster box—sometimes less. Today, they’re recognized for:
- Alternative shiny artwork
- Extremely limited availability
- High-grade value appreciation
Pair Your Stars With Vintage Sets
Show off your Star cards alongside legendary complete sets from the early 2000s, available now at TradingCardSets.com:
- Legendary Collection – Featuring the original lineup with dazzling reverse holos
- Gym Challenge Set – Trainer-themed vintage powerhouse
- Mixed Modern 151 Set – Reimagined classics from today’s reprints
Where to Buy Gyarados & Pikachu Star
These cards rarely appear in the wild—so when they do, act fast. Use our TCGplayer affiliate link to find listings for:
Start (or Finish) Your Star Collection
Gyarados and Pikachu Star cards offer everything a collector dreams of: rarity, beauty, nostalgia, and long-term value. Whether you’re filling a Star binder or building a centerpiece collection, don’t miss the opportunity to own two of the most iconic Pokémon Star cards ever printed.