Japanese 2019 Pokémon Dream League Empoleon 011049 PSA 100 CC represents a high-grade competitive Water-type centerpiece for collectors and VGC strategists. This specific Lot number reflects a professionally graded snapshot of a premier tournament release, combining legal tournament legality with pristine condition.
For investors and players tracking graded tournament staples, understanding the interplay of set timing, card code, and third-party grading is essential. The following breakdown highlights why this Empoleon submission stands out in the secondary market.
Tournament Identity and Card Code
Set Context and Internal Numbering
Within the structure of the 2019 Pokémon World Championship, Empoleon carried the specific reference 011049, linking it to a distinct printing slot. The combination of year, event identity, and card number ensures unambiguous traceability across databases and grading reports.
| Field | Value | Significance | Verification Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tournament | 2019 Pokémon World Championship | Official premier competitive event | Pokémon Company International archives |
| Card Code | 011049 | Unique identifier for this Empoleon print | Set checklist and TCGplayer databases |
| Grade | Pristine 100 (PSA) | Top-tier encapsulation with perfect score | PSA online population report |
| Edition | {"true":"swshcc"}Sword & Shield Champion Collection | Official set announcement from TPCi |
Competitive Relevance in VGC 2019
Strategic Role of Empoleon in Regulation 2
During the Regulation 2 era of the 2019 season, Empoleon served as a reliable Water-type anchor with access to moves like Surf, Ice Beam, and Roar. Its balanced defenses and utility moves made it a frequent choice in both single-elimination and side-event formats.
Meta Presence and Performance Data
Tournament statistics from major venues showed Empoon frequently appearing in the top eight, particularly in regional championships where Regulation 2 was active. This performance history supports the card’s enduring demand among graded tournament pulls.
Grading Impact on Value and Authenticity
Pristine 100 (PSA 100) Implications
A PSA 100 designation signals a flawless card with centered artwork, sharp corners, and no surface imperfections. For a tournament legal card like Empoleon 011049, this grade commands a premium due to scarcity and presentation quality.
Population and Market Rarity
As of the latest population reports, very few 2019 Empoleon pulls hold a PSA 100, making each graded example a standout piece for completionists. Price guides reflect this rarity, with auction results showing consistent upward momentum for high-grade tournament cards.
Condition Preservation and Handling
Encapsulation and Long-Term Care
The sturdy PSA holder protects the Empoleon card from bends, scratches, and environmental exposure, preserving the 100 grade over time. Collectors are advised to store graded pulls vertically in a low-humidity environment to minimize risk.
Visual Quality Indicators
Inspecting the card under proper lighting reveals consistent color saturation and sharp foil alignment, key attributes that distinguish a true 100 from lower grades. The absence of print lines or edge wear further confirms the premium status of this graded pull.
Key Takeaways for Collectors and Competitors
- Confirm card code 011049 against official tournament records to ensure correct identification.
- Prioritize PSA 100 graded examples for long-term value and visual appeal.
- Track Regulation 2 legality updates when building competitive decks around this card.
- Store graded pulls vertically in a controlled environment to preserve encapsulation integrity.
- Monitor auction results and population reports to time acquisition or sale decisions strategically.
FAQ
Reader questions
What tournament legality does Empoleon 011049 hold for 2019 Championships?
Empoleon 011049 is legal for use in all 2019 Pokémon World Championship formats that reference the Champion Collection expansion, including Regulation 2 and related side events.
How can I verify the authenticity of a PSA 100 Empoleon graded card?
Cross-reference the card code 011049 on the PSA certificate with the online population database and inspect the holographic alignment through the grading holder to confirm originality.
Does the 2019 set expansion affect the scarcity of this graded card?
Yes, because the Champion Collection introduced new artwork and foil techniques, high-grade pulls like Empoleon 011049 have become rarer as collectors compete for top-graded examples from this specific set.
What price range should I expect for a PSA 100 graded tournament Empoleon in active listings?
Marketplace data indicates that a PSA 100 Empoleon 011049 typically commands a premium over lower grades, with recent sold listings reflecting values significantly above base set prices due to condition rarity and tournament prestige.