Koffing Card Appraisal

Pokemon Basic Koffing Trading Card

This item is a vintage Basic Koffing Pokémon trading card, likely from the original Base Set or an early expansion. The physical card is rectangular, made of standard card stock, and measures approximately 6.3 cm by 8.8 cm (the standard size for a Pokémon card). The primary colors are a vivid purple for the main background of the card's text and borders, with a vibrant yellow outer border, and a multicolored illustration area. The card depicts a purple, spherical character named Koffing with large red eyes, an open mouth, and a distinctive yellow 'skull and crossbones' symbol on its body, against a green and yellow background suggesting a gaseous or smoky environment. Key identifiers include 'Koffing' at the top, 'Basic' indicating its evolution stage, 'LV.13' for its level, and '60 HP' for Hit Points. It has the Pokémon number 'NO. 109', is typed as 'Poison Gas Pokémon', and lists its height ('HT: 2'0"') and weight ('WT: 2.2 lbs.'). The card features one attack called 'Foul Gas' with an attack cost of two purple energy symbols, dealing '10' damage. The effect text explains, 'Flip a coin. If heads, your opponent's Active Pokémon is now Poisoned. If tails, your opponent's Active Pokémon is now Confused.' Below the attack, it shows weakness (a fighting-type symbol with '+20'), resistance (none visible), and a retreat cost (one colorless energy symbol). There is also flavor text within a box which reads, 'Lighter-than-air balloon-like body is filled with toxic gas. It smacks anyone who tries to get near it with its terrible gas.' Small copyright information '©1995, 96, 98 Nintendo, Creatures, GAMEFREAK. ©1999 Wizards.' and 'Wizards of the Coast' are visible at the bottom. A set symbol or rarity indicator is not clearly discernible in the provided image. The card appears to be in reasonably good condition for its age, with minor wear consistent with handling but no obvious major creases, tears, or significant surface damage, suggesting it has been cared for. The edges and corners appear relatively sharp, and the colors remain vibrant. This card represents an early era of the Pokémon Trading Card Game, dating back to the late 1990s, making it a collectible item for enthusiasts.