Snap Gyarados (1999) – The Ultra-Rare Pokémon Card from the CoroCoro Contest





In 1999, the Pokémon franchise introduced a unique collaboration between its video game and trading card platforms, resulting in the creation of the Snap Gyarados card. This card stands out not only for its rarity but also for its origin, deeply rooted in player engagement and creativity.

Origins of the Snap Gyarados Card

To celebrate the release of Pokémon Snap for the Nintendo 64, CoroCoro Comic magazine hosted the "Best Photo Contest" in June 1999. Players were invited to capture their best in-game photographs and submit them for evaluation. One notable submission was a striking image of Gyarados, taken by Ryouichi Abe from the Miyagi prefecture. His exceptional photograph earned him a special prize: 20 copies of a promotional Pokémon Trading Card featuring his Gyarados image. This card, now known as the Snap Gyarados, is distinguished by its unique artwork and the photographer's credit in the artist section.

CGC Cards






Design and Features

The Snap Gyarados card showcases the following characteristics:

  • Artwork: A dynamic depiction of Gyarados, captured from the in-game environment of Pokémon Snap.

  • Artist Credit: The card credits "Ryouichi Abe" as the photographer, a unique feature honoring the contest winner.

  • Edition Details: Released as an unnumbered promotional card, it was part of the CoroCoro Best Photo Contest series.

Rarity and Collectibility

With only 20 copies awarded to the contest winner, the Snap Gyarados card is among the rarest Pokémon cards in existence. Its scarcity has made it highly sought after by collectors. In May 2024, a CGC Gem Mint 10 graded Snap Gyarados card fetched approximately $87,200 at auction, underscoring its significant value in the collectors' market.

CGC Cards

Historical Significance

The Snap Gyarados card represents a unique intersection of interactive gaming and collectible card gaming. It stands as a testament to the innovative promotional strategies of the late 1990s, engaging players in creative participation and rewarding them with exclusive collectibles. This card not only commemorates the Pokémon Snap game but also highlights the community-driven aspects of the Pokémon franchise.

Conclusion

The Snap Gyarados card from 1999 remains a remarkable piece of Pokémon history. Its origin, tied to player creativity and limited distribution, contributes to its esteemed status among collectors and fans alike. As the Pokémon franchise continues to evolve, items like the Snap Gyarados card serve as cherished reminders of its rich and interactive past.

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