Ciphermaniac's Codebreaking (Special Illustration Rare) - Pokémon TCG: Temporal Forces

This is a Special Illustration Rare (SIR) holographic trading card from the Pokémon Trading Card Game, specifically from the Temporal Forces expansion released in 2024. The card features the character 'Ciphermaniac's Codebreaking', identified as a Supporter and a 'Future' trainer card. The artwork depicts a character with vibrant lime-green hair holding a tablet and a stylus in a high-tech setting. Physically, the card is standard 2.5 by 3.5 inches, constructed from high-quality layered cardstock with a distinctive textured, full-art holographic finish that produces a rainbow shimmer when tilted. Notable markings include the card number 198/162 in the bottom left corner, alongside the artist's name, gidora. The card is protected within a blue-bordered soft sleeve. The visible condition appears to be excellent, with sharp corners, clean edges, and no significant surface scratches or whitening. This modern collectible is highly sought after for its intricate artwork and utility in competitive play, representing the high-tier craftsmanship typical of modern Japanese and International Pokémon TCG releases.

I have examined the digital images of the Ciphermaniac's Codebreaking (Special Illustration Rare #198/162) from the Temporal Forces expansion. Upon visual inspection, the card exhibits the correct texture patterns and holographic layering characteristic of genuine 'Future' sub-set SIR cards. The centering appears well-balanced on the front face, and the corners show no immediate signs of whitening or 'fuzzing.' The textured finish, specific to gidora's complex artwork, aligns with known authentic specimens. The current market for Temporal Forces is stabilizing post-release. As a Special Illustration Rare, this card occupies a high-rarity tier. Being a 'Future' Supporter, its value is bolstered not only by collector demand for the 'full art' aesthetic but also by its competitive viability in the current TCG meta. Recent sales for raw copies in 'Near Mint/Mint' condition typically fluctuate between $45 and $60, while professionally graded (PSA 10) copies can command a premium. However, there are limitations to this digital appraisal. I cannot verify the integrity of the card's surface under a loupe to check for micro-scratches or wax stains, nor can I inspect the back for subtle whitening or edge-wear often hidden by the blue-bordered sleeve. To provide a definitive authentication, an in-person examination is required to verify the tactile texture of the cardstock and the 'light test' for core-layer opacity. Professional grading by a third party (PSA, BGS, or CGC) would be the definitive step to lock in higher market value and confirm authenticity beyond a visual check.