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Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals is already being hailed as one of the best sets of the Scarlet & Violet era—and it’s not just because of the return of Team Rocket. With jaw-dropping Special Illustration Rares, unforgettable Trainer–Pokémon pairings, and some of the lowest pull rates in years, this set is packed with grails for serious collectors.
But which cards are the true heavy hitters?
Here’s your updated collector’s guide to the top chase cards in Destined Rivals, ranked by current secondary market value as of June 2025. Whether you're investing, completing a master set, or chasing that one elusive pull, these are the cards commanding the highest prices—and the most attention.
*Market values as of time of publishing
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1. Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex SIR – #231
Market Value: ~$342
Why It’s the Top Pick: Still the defining card of Destined Rivals, this Special Illustration Rare captures the dark majesty of Mewtwo under Team Rocket’s control. It may not top $700 anymore, but it remains the most sought-after card in the set thanks to its powerful design, fan-favorite status, and extremely low pull rate.
2. Cynthia’s Garchomp ex SIR – #232
Market Value: ~$193
Why Collectors Love It: Cynthia and Garchomp return with a stunning dynamic composition that speaks to both competitive players and collectors. It’s not just powerful on the battlefield—it’s commanding a strong premium in the secondary market.
3. Ethan’s Ho-oh ex SIR – #230
Market Value: ~$162
Why Collectors Love It: This Johto-era tribute shows Ethan soaring with Ho-oh in one of the most nostalgic pieces in the set. While prices have cooled slightly, the artwork and legacy of this pairing continue to drive steady demand.
4. Team Rocket’s Moltres ex SIR – #229
Market Value: ~$148
Why Collectors Love It: Rocket’s Moltres ex is a fiery, dramatic standout with heavy villain energy. It’s a key piece for collectors assembling the full Rocket SIR lineup, and its lower price point makes it more accessible without sacrificing impact.
5. Team Rocket’s Nidoking ex SIR – #233
Market Value: ~$90
Why Collectors Love It: A gritty reimagining of a Gen I powerhouse, this Nidoking ex delivers on both nostalgia and style. It’s one of the few chase cards hovering around the $100 mark—still rare, but increasingly within reach.
6. Team Rocket’s Crobat ex SIR – #234
Market Value: ~$75
Why Collectors Love It: Fast, sharp, and underrated, Crobat ex has emerged as a quiet favorite among Rocket fans. While it’s slipped a few ranks in value, its distinctive artwork and low pull rate make it a consistent top ten pick.
7. Ethan’s Adventure SIR – #236
Market Value: ~$63
Why Collectors Love It: Less about combat and more about character, this contemplative illustration of Ethan on his journey has held collector interest for its emotional depth. A top-tier Trainer card in both design and value.
8. Misty’s Psyduck IR – #193
Market Value: ~$58
Why Collectors Love It: Rounding out the top ten is a surprise hit: Misty’s Psyduck. This Illustration Rare blends humor, charm, and nostalgia with artwork that captures one of the most iconic Trainer–Pokémon dynamics in the franchise.
9. Team Rocket’s Mewtwo ex (Gold Secret Rare) – #240
Market Value: ~$56
Why Collectors Love It: Though overshadowed by the SIR version, the gold variant of Rocket’s Mewtwo remains highly collectible. Its metallic aesthetic and alignment with the Rocket theme give it enduring appeal.
10. Ethan's Typhlosian IR – #190
Market Value: ~$45
Why Collectors Love It: As one of the standout cards from the era of Pokémon Colosseum and Game Boy classics, Ethan’s Typhlosion blends nostalgia with power. The card’s fiery art, coupled with its connection to one of Johto’s fan-favorite Trainers, makes it a beloved piece for collectors chasing retro vibes.
Why Are These Destined Rivals Cards So Valuable?
Several factors are driving the demand for these top chase cards:
Special Illustration Rares Dominate: These cards feature full-art, story-driven artwork and have incredibly low pull rates—making them instant collector favorites.
Team Rocket’s Return: The Rocket sub-set is one of the most popular in recent memory, with dark themes and iconic Gen I Pokémon bringing in longtime fans.
Nostalgia + Innovation: The set pairs classic characters like Ethan, Cynthia, and Giovanni with new mechanics like Trainer’s Pokémon, appealing to both collectors and players.
Secondary Market Heat: Prices are holding strong post-release, and top-tier cards like Mewtwo ex SIR are already being compared to modern grails.
Final Thoughts: Should You Chase or Buy Singles?
If you’re hunting sealed product in hopes of pulling one of these cards, just know the odds are steep. Some SIRs have pull rates of 1 in 1,000 packs or worse. But for collectors chasing a display piece or a long-term hold, now might be the best time to buy before prices settle—or spike again.
Destined Rivals has all the ingredients of a modern classic: bold artwork, nostalgic callbacks, and elite-level chase cards. Whether you're opening packs or shopping singles, these ten cards represent the heart of what makes this set special.
Looking to pick up some Destined Rivals 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!
