The highly anticipated Mega Evolution era has officially launched in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, following the successful Japanese releases of the Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia sets in August 2025. These incredible cards, boasting massive HP, breathtaking full-art designs, and the intense 3-Prize rule for Mega ex KOs, are already making huge waves in both the collector’s market and competitive deck-building in Japan. We fully expect this global phenomenon to take the worldwide TCG scene by storm.
As with every significant release, a select few ‘chase cards’ quickly climb to the top of the market. This surge in value is often driven by a combination of factors: their competitive viability, breathtaking artwork, or simply the immense popularity of the Pokémon or trainer depicted. Below, we’ve compiled a definitive list of the 15 most expensive Mega Evolution cards currently dominating the market, based on prices from a leading marketplace. We’ll start with the more accessible treasures and work our way up to the ultimate crown jewels.
Both the Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia expansions have already introduced some of the year’s most visually stunning and valuable cards. For those who prefer a quicker glance, we’ve highlighted the top 15 most valuable cards from the combined Mega Evolution set within this comprehensive guide.
It’s important to note that since the set is still fresh on the market, the exact rankings and prices of these highly sought-after cards are constantly fluctuating. The market is dynamic, so while our list provides a snapshot, current values may vary.
From powerful Pokémon like Mega Venusaur ex and Mega Gardevoir ex, to captivating Special Art Rares featuring beloved trainers such as Lillie, collectors worldwide are racing to acquire these cards before their prices soar even higher. Let’s dive in and explore the fifteen most expensive cards making waves in the Mega Evolution market right now.
15. Mega Venusaur ex – 155/132 (Ultra Rare)
Mega Venusaur ex cards are renowned for their incredible endurance, and this Mega Evolution version continues that legacy. Its “Solar Transfer” ability allows you to freely reallocate Grass Energy, while “Jungle Dump” not only deals a hefty 240 damage but also heals 30, making it incredibly difficult to knock out. The artwork by 5ban Graphics perfectly captures this resilience, showing Mega Venusaur ex powerfully poised beneath vibrant petals. As both a robust choice for Grass decks and a visually striking collectible, this Ultra Rare is highly coveted.
14. Vulpix – 138/132 (Illustration Rare)
While Vulpix’s “Stampede” and “Combustion” attacks are decent, they likely won’t redefine the competitive meta. However, this card’s true appeal lies in its stunning Illustration Rare artwork by saino misaki. It depicts the beloved fox Pokémon peacefully curled up by a fireplace in a warm, rustic setting. This cozy, slice-of-life scene is incredibly appealing to collectors, proving that atmosphere and a touch of nostalgia can elevate even a lower-power card into a highly valued treasure.
13. Bulbasaur – 133/132 (Illustration Rare)
This Mega Evolution Bulbasaur is already a top seller among Pokémon TCG collectors. Its “Bind Down” attack is surprisingly disruptive, capable of trapping your opponent’s Active Pokémon while you strategically build your board. This tactical utility, coupled with Bulbasaur’s enduring nostalgic charm as one of the original Grass starters, makes it appealing to both competitive players and casual fans. Artist mashu’s vibrant, swirling colors give Bulbasaur an ethereal, dreamlike quality, significantly boosting its desirability. It’s both a playable asset and one of the set’s most visually captivating cards.
12. Ivysaur – 134/132 (Illustration Rare)
“Razor Leaf” provides a consistent 60 damage for two Grass Energy, making Ivysaur an excellent stepping stone to Mega Venusaur in specialized Grass decks. The artwork, once again by mashu, portrays Ivysaur leaping with intense focus amidst a dazzling background of glowing leaves and colorful petals. As an essential piece of the complete Kanto starter evolution line, collectors are keen to unite this iconic trio. Its blend of reliable damage output and striking aesthetics firmly establishes its growing market value.
11. Lillie’s Determination – 169/132 (Ultra Rare)
While perhaps not as artistically elaborate as its Special Illustration Rare counterpart, this Ultra Rare version of “Lillie’s Determination” has quickly become one of the most sought-after cards in the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution set. Atsushi Furusawa’s beautiful full-art design exquisitely captures Lillie with delicate, vibrant details. The card’s effect offers a versatile draw option, allowing players to refresh their hand, making it strategically useful. Even if it doesn’t always lead in competitive play, this card is a guaranteed showstopper in any collection. Lillie’s immense popularity should not be underestimated, as it consistently drives her cards to the top of any set’s value list.
10. Marshadow – 146/132 (Illustration Rare)
Marshadow stands out as one of the most competitively viable Illustration Rares in the set. Its “Shadowy Side Kick” attack delivers solid damage, and its unique effect of nullifying damage on the subsequent turn after scoring a Knock Out can effectively disrupt and stall opponents. This card masterfully blends strategic gameplay potential with high collector appeal, making it a true gem for both players and enthusiasts.
9. Mega Kangaskhan ex – 182/132
Mega Kangaskhan ex has emerged as an unexpected star on the list of most valuable cards, currently commanding a market price of around $90. The breathtaking artwork by 5ban Graphics showcases Mega Kangaskhan and its adorable joey mid-action, unleashing their signature “Rapid Fire Combo.” This card’s charm and impressive visuals have propelled it into the top tiers of collector’s value.
8. Mega Absol ex – 161/132 (Ultra Rare)
Absol has maintained a strong cult following since its introduction in Generation III, and its new Mega form perfectly captures that familiar menacing aura. This Ultra Rare Mega Absol ex card features a striking, almost gothic portrayal, reminiscent of a noir film with its captivating blend of black and yellow hues. In terms of gameplay, its “Terminal Period” attack presents an intriguing win condition, capable of knocking out opponents whose damage aligns perfectly, while “Claw of Darkness” delivers raw power and disruption. Despite being slightly less agile in today’s rapid meta, Absol’s enduring fan appeal guarantees this card will retain its high value.
7. Lillie’s Determination – 184/132 (Special Illustration Rare)
Lillie remains one of the most influential trainers in the secondary market, a fact undeniably reinforced by this card. The exquisite floral artwork of “Lillie’s Determination” by Atsushi Furusawa radiates warmth and nostalgia. Beyond its beauty, the Trainer card itself is highly effective, allowing you to draw six new cards, or even eight if you’re behind, providing crucial utility for control and comeback strategies. Lillie’s immense popularity consistently propels her cards into the high-value stratosphere, mirroring the trend observed with her earlier Sun & Moon releases, with this special illustration fetching around $200.
6. Mega Latias ex – 181/132 (Special Illustration Rare)
Commanding a price of around $200, Mega Latias ex delivers both potent combat versatility and stunning visuals, cementing its status as one of the most sought-after cards in the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution set. Its “Strafe” attack facilitates intelligent switching maneuvers, while “Illusory Impulse” unleashes a staggering 300 damage, albeit at the cost of discarding Energy. Akira Egawa’s vibrant, swirling artwork makes this legendary Dragon-type Pokémon appear to surge directly from the card. This blend of strong playability and high collectability firmly establishes its position as one of the set’s most desirable items.
5. Mega Venusaur ex – 177/132 (Special Illustration Rare)
As the fifth entry in our list of valuable cards from the Pokémon Trading Card Game’s new Mega Evolution set, this Special Illustration Rare of Mega Venusaur ex is a formidable battlefield presence. Its “Solar Transfer” ability allows for effortless Energy redistribution, and “Jungle Dump” deals 240 damage while simultaneously healing itself, making it one of the most adaptable and resilient attackers in the entire collection. The SAR artwork by mashu is truly exceptional, showcasing a vibrant, chaotic jungle bursting with color, where Venusaur commands attention as a dominant force. This perfect combination of competitive viability and breathtaking art has firmly placed this card in the highest echelon of value.
4. Mega Lucario ex – 179/132 (Special Illustration Rare)
This Special Illustration Rare of Mega Lucario ex currently commands a market price of around $280, which is even more impressive considering it’s $75 higher than some other versions. Its “Aura Jab” attack efficiently accelerates Fighting Energy, while “Mega Brave” delivers a devastating 270 damage, making Lucario a perfect fit for aggressive deck strategies. The dynamic artwork, also by 5ban Graphics, portrays Lucario mid-leap, surrounded by intense energy bursts as it confronts a Mega Venusaur – a visual spectacle that perfectly reflects its high-impact combat style.
3. Mega Gardevoir ex – 178/132 (Special Illustration Rare)
Currently priced at over $500, this Special Illustration Rare of Mega Gardevoir ex is a shining star of the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution set and ranks highly among the most coveted. Its “Overflowing Wishes” ability allows you to quickly attach Psychic Energy across your Bench, while “Mega Symphonia” transforms that energy into devastating damage. Raita Kazama’s exquisite, museum-quality artwork, featuring soft pastel tones and floral elegance, perfectly embodies the card’s graceful power. This harmonious blend of competitive strength and stunning artistry firmly establishes it as one of the set’s most highly prized collectibles.
2. Mega Gardevoir ex – 187/132 (Hyper Mega Rare)
Mirroring its gold-finished Mega Lucario counterpart, this exceptionally rare Mega Gardevoir ex is valued at approximately $500, with some individual listings soaring to $1200 or more. As the second most valuable card on our list, its rarity is truly remarkable. According to reliable pull rate data, these “Mega Hyper Rare” cards are incredibly elusive, appearing on average just once every 1260 packs of Mega Evolution. This means you could potentially open around 35 booster boxes before encountering a single one of these gems – a truly challenging, albeit rewarding, chase!
1. Mega Lucario ex – 188/132 (Hyper Mega Rare)
The dazzling golden “Mega Hyper Rare” Mega Lucario ex card currently reigns supreme on Pokémon TCG listings, boasting a staggering market value of around $600, with some listings exceeding $1000. It is the top card on our list. Just like its other versions, its “Aura Jab” attack ensures efficient Energy recovery, while “Mega Brave” unleashes a formidable 270 damage, perfectly embodying the high-risk, high-reward nature of Mega ex Pokémon. The exquisite gold finish, masterfully crafted by 5ban Graphics, transforms Lucario into an undeniable centerpiece. Coveted by both competitive players and dedicated collectors, this card has ascended to the very pinnacle of desirability. If you’re fortunate enough to own one of these, it’s definitely a prized possession to keep safely in your binder rather than in your active deck!
Ben Williams is a freelance contributor with over a decade of experience covering gaming, technology, film, TV, and anime. This article also includes contributions from Robert Anderson.