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Since its release, Scarlet & Violet – Surging Sparks has been a juggernaut in the Pokémon TCG world. Known for its jaw-dropping Special Illustration Rares, competitive innovations, and sheer set size, it's become both a collector's delight and a player's playground. Now, with the dust settled and the market speaking clearly, here are the ten most valuable cards from the set as of late May 2025.
Whether you’re a seasoned binder builder or a meta-focused battler, these are the cards making the biggest impact on the secondary market—and in the hearts of collectors.
1. Pikachu ex (Special Illustration Rare) – $283.07
Card Number: 238/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare
Commanding a staggering price tag, Pikachu ex SIR is the undisputed crown jewel of Surging Sparks. A blend of dynamic artwork, playable strength, and mascot-level nostalgia has propelled this card to grail status. It’s the kind of pull that defines box breaks and elevates entire collections.
2. Latias ex (Special Illustration Rare) – $185.30
Card Number: 239/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare
This elegant Latias ex, often paired with Latios to complete a two-card art story, continues to surge thanks to collector demand and stunning visual execution. Fans of legendary Pokémon and art-focused collectors alike have kept this card in the high-value spotlight.
3. Milotic ex (Special Illustration Rare) – $104.65
Card Number: 237/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare
Graceful and strategically relevant, Milotic ex blends beauty with battlefield utility. Its unique ability counters key meta strategies, and its serene art has made it one of the most beloved cards in the set.
4. Pikachu ex (Gold Hyper Rare) – $63.02
Card Number: 247/191
Rarity: Gold Hyper Rare
While not as iconic as its SIR sibling, this glimmering gold version of Pikachu ex still commands attention. It’s a must-have for Pikachu collectors and fans of the gold rare aesthetic—a modern staple in high-value Pokémon pulls.
5. Hydreigon ex (Special Illustration Rare) – $51.05
Card Number: 240/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare
Hydreigon ex boasts fierce artwork and meta-flexible potential. Its aggressive presence on the battlefield combined with a stylized, collectible art treatment makes this a favorite among dragon-type loyalists.
6. Alolan Exeggutor ex (Special Illustration Rare) – $40.66
Card Number: 242/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare
A fan-favorite for its humor and tropical vibe, Alolan Exeggutor ex is more than a meme—it’s a legitimate threat in certain decks. Its quirky visual appeal and competitive versatility have landed it squarely in the top ten.
7. Lisia’s Appeal (Special Illustration Rare Trainer) – $39.32
Card Number: 246/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare (Trainer)
The highest-ranking trainer card in the set, Lisia’s Appeal brings vibrant charm and fanservice to the forefront. With Lisia's growing cult popularity and the stunning art direction, it’s one of the most talked-about SIR Trainers in the Scarlet & Violet era.
8. Jasmine’s Gaze (Special Illustration Rare Trainer) – $31.44
Card Number: 245/191
Rarity: Special Illustration Rare (Trainer)
Jasmine’s quiet moment has struck a chord with collectors who appreciate subtle storytelling. Her warm expression and Johto ties make this card a sentimental favorite—and its value reflects that rising affection.
9. Latios (Illustration Rare) – $28.37
Card Number: 203/191
Rarity: Illustration Rare
This companion piece to Latias ex is essential for collectors chasing the full duo narrative. Though technically an IR and not a SIR, its value speaks to the strength of its artwork and the bond it shares with its twin.
10. Night Stretcher (Gold Hyper Rare Trainer Item) – $26.28
Card Number: 251/191
Rarity: Gold Hyper Rare (Trainer Item)
Rounding out the top ten is a functional powerhouse in gold foil. Night Stretcher is a key recovery card in many decks, and its high-utility role paired with a gleaming finish has secured it a spot among the set’s most valuable cards.
Why These Cards Lead the Market
From power players to narrative-driven trainers, this top 10 reflects the dynamic forces driving collector interest in 2025. Market prices, as tracked by Rare Candy and other major platforms, show a blend of long-term icons and current meta staples holding strong value.
What unites these cards? It’s more than rarity. Each card tells a story—whether through nostalgic design, competitive importance, or aesthetic brilliance—and that emotional resonance is what keeps prices high and demand higher.
The Enduring Appeal of Surging Sparks
So why is Surging Sparks still one of the most beloved sets in the game?
Collector-Grade Art: Special Illustration Rares have never looked better.
Meta-Changing Mechanics: Cards like Pikachu ex and Ceruledge ex reshaped play.
Set Size Challenge: At over 250 cards, completion is no easy feat.
Market Movement: The set helped lift not just itself but the value of older boxes.
Cultural Timing: Released at the close of 2024, it captured a wave of end-of-year excitement and collector momentum.
Final Thoughts
The top 10 most valuable cards in Surging Sparks aren’t just worth chasing—they’re defining the current TCG era. With prices still trending strong and interest surging across multiple demographics, these cards represent the perfect blend of passion, potential, and prestige.
As always, chase smart—but never forget why you started collecting in the first place. Sometimes, the story behind the card is worth just as much as the market price.
Looking to pick up some Surging Sparks 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!
