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Crown Zenith isn’t just the final set of the Sword & Shield era—it’s a celebration of everything that made the era iconic. Released on January 20, 2023, Crown Zenith set itself apart with stunning artwork, innovative card designs, and an exclusive product distribution model that immediately captured collectors' attention.
Whether you're a seasoned TCG veteran or a newer enthusiast, Crown Zenith offers something special: unforgettable art, legendary Pokémon, and the thrill of the chase. Let’s dive into why this set stands out—and take a closer look at the Top 10 Crown Zenith cards every collector should know about in 2025.
Series: Sword & Shield
Crown Zenith Release Date: January 20, 2023
Set Abbreviation: CRZ
Top 10 Most Valuable Crown Zenith Cards (August 2025)
Honorable Mention: Sleepy Mew – $35.67
Card number: #GG10/GG70
This adorable Mew showcases a playful forest scene filled with smaller Pokémon companions. Its whimsical appeal has kept it just outside the top 10.
Honorable Mention: Pikachu Alt Art – $34.33
Card number: #160/159
The only non-Galarian Gallery card on this list, Pikachu’s colorful design introduces the Scarlet & Violet energy into Sword & Shield’s finale. Its popularity and iconic status make it a consistent chase.
10. Darkrai VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $36.80
Card Number: #GG50
Darkrai’s VSTAR artwork paints a moody, cosmic scene that perfectly fits its Dark typing. A longtime fan-favorite Legendary, its dynamic illustration and strong playability keep it in the top 10.
9. Deoxys VMAX (Galarian Gallery) – $38.67
Card Number: #GG45
Deoxys VMAX from Crown Zenith highlights the Mythical Pokémon’s extraterrestrial origins, with its Defense Forme illuminated under a UFO-like Gigantamax Orbeetle. The cosmic artwork ties directly into Deoxys’s lore as a spaceborne virus-turned-Pokémon, making it one of the most atmospheric cards in the Galarian Gallery. Its rarity, striking design, and connection to Pokémon’s sci-fi storytelling have cemented it as a must-have chase for collectors.
8. Glaceon VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $39.20
Card Number: #GG40
Glaceon looks majestic amid icy landscapes in this VSTAR full art. Eeveelutions always drive demand, and this crisp winter artwork makes it a sought-after chase.
7. Suicune V (Galarian Gallery) – $39.80
Card Number: #GG38
Suicune sprints across a frozen tundra in one of the most dynamic pieces of art in the Galarian Gallery. Legendary Dogs have lasting appeal, and Suicune’s unique pose makes it unforgettable.
6. Leafeon VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $46.80
Card Number: #GG35
Leafeon’s lush garden artwork feels cozy yet powerful, making it a beloved Eeveelution chase. Its price and pull demand place it above the other Gallery Eeveelutions.
5. Origin Forme Palkia VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $72.17
Card Number: #GG67
This golden VSTAR features Palkia in a surreal cosmic plane, pulling collectors with both rarity and lore value. As part of the legendary Sinnoh trio, its demand has remained strong.
4. Origin Forme Dialga VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $74.76
Card Number: #GG68
Dialga’s swirling golden background captures the essence of time itself. As one of the centerpiece gold cards of Crown Zenith, it’s a grail for fans of Sinnoh’s Legendaries.
3. Arceus VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $104.61
Card Number: #GG70
The god of Pokémon beams with celestial light in this stunning gold VSTAR. Arceus cards always hold special weight in the market, and this version is no exception.
2. Mewtwo VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $127.72
Card Number: #GG44
Mewtwo clashes with Charizard in one of the most cinematic scenes in the TCG. This VSTAR card is prized both for its artistry and its role in telling an epic battle story.
1. Giratina VSTAR (Galarian Gallery) – $173.43
Card Number: #GG69
The crown jewel of Crown Zenith’s Galarian Gallery. Giratina VSTAR’s golden, swirling abyss artwork channels the Distortion World in stunning detail. With one of the lowest pull rates in the set, it stands as the ultimate grail for collectors.
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What Makes Crown Zenith a Collector’s Favorite?
Before we jump into the rankings, here’s what makes Crown Zenith so unique:
Galarian Gallery: A 70-card subset showcasing breathtaking alternate art Pokémon and Trainers.
No Booster Boxes: Packs were only available through special products, like Elite Trainer Boxes and Premium Collections.
Art and Design Excellence: With dynamic, story-driven scenes and interconnected artwork, Crown Zenith raised the bar.
Sword & Shield’s Grand Finale: The set highlights beloved mechanics like VSTAR, Radiant Pokémon, and fan-favorite Trainers.
Final Thoughts
Crown Zenith is more than just the end of the Sword & Shield era—it's a masterpiece collection that honors everything the era brought to Pokémon TCG. With its breathtaking Galarian Gallery, exclusive release model, and unforgettable chase cards, it’s clear why Crown Zenith has become a modern collector’s classic.
Whether you're hunting the elusive Giratina VSTAR or building a full gallery of golden legends, Crown Zenith is a set you won't want to miss—today, and for years to come.
Looking to pick up some Crown Zenith of your own? Search Rare Candy's listings to see cards for sale and keep an eye on our auctions where new exciting cards are made available every week!
Download the Rare Candy App to scan, track, and share your Pokémon cards!
