Articuno-EX Pokémon Trading Card (Plasma Storm 25/135)

This is a full-art, holographically finished Pokémon Trading Card featuring the legendary ice-bird Pokémon, Articuno. The card measures standard 2.5 by 3.5 inches and is constructed from cardstock with a distinctive blue border, identifying it as part of the Team Plasma subset within the 'Black & White - Plasma Storm' expansion released in 2013. The illustration, credited to artist Eske Yoshinob, showcases a stylized, aggressive Articuno surrounded by crystalline energy effects. It features 170 HP and lists two specific attacks: Blizzard (60 damage) and Frost Prison (80 damage), accompanied by the 'Team Plasma' shield watermark in the background of the text box. Notable markings include the set number 25/135 in the bottom right corner. Regarding condition, the card is housed in a plastic binder sleeve which obscures fine surface scratches, but visible whitening is present along the bottom yellow border and corners, suggesting moderate play wear. The centering appears slightly heavy toward the left margin. This card is a 'Rare Holo EX' rarity, a high-tier pull from its original 2013 manufacturing period, valued for its mechanical utility in the game as well as its status as a collectible legendary bird.

I have conducted a visual examination of this Articuno-EX (Plasma Storm 25/135) from the 2013 Black & White era. Based on the provided documentation, the card displays the correct holographic pattern and the characteristic 'Team Plasma' blue border and watermark consistent with genuine prints from this expansion. However, condition is the primary driver of value for this specific rarity. My analysis reveals visible whitening on the reverse edges and corners, alongside a left-heavy centering alignment. I would categorize this card as 'Lightly Played' (LP) to 'Moderately Played' (MP) condition. Recent market data for this card in similar condition shows sales ranging from $45 to $60, whereas a Gem Mint graded specimen could command upwards of $200. The demand for 'Plasma' era EX cards remains high due to nostalgia for the Black & White series and the popularity of the Legendary Birds. It is important to note that a digital inspection has limitations; a physical examination is required to verify surface texture (standard for full-art cards of this era) and to rule out high-quality proxies. To confirm full authenticity and potentially increase the valuation via professional grading, I would need to inspect the card under 10x magnification to check the rosette printing pattern and ensure the internal black ink layer in the cardstock is present.