Electrode 1St Edition Jungle Misprint

First released in 1999 as part of Pokémon’s Jungle expansion, the Electrode 1st Edition Jungle card (Card #18/64) became notable when a handful of misprinted copies surfaced. Instead of the correct Jungle artwork featuring Electrode in a natural setting, some prints mistakenly used the original Base Set Electrode art an error collectors refer to as a base-art misprint. This glitch transformed a regular non-holo rare into a sought-after anomaly, making those copies highly collectible.

What Is the Misprint?

The misprint occurs when the card is labelled as part of the Jungle set but features the Base Set Electrode illustration. In other words, the reverse stamp and set number (18/64) say Jungle, but the picture of Ele­ctrode is from the earlier set. This discrepancy between artwork and set identification is what defines the error.

Why It Matters to Collectors

• The error blends two iconic sets Base and Jungle creating a rare hybrid that shouldn’t exist.
• It’s visually distinct and easily recognizable, even to casual fans.
• Only a small number were printed, so these cards are rare in both loose and graded form.

Because of its novelty and rarity, serious collectors actively seek it out for display or investment.

Market Value and Pricing Trends

Ordinary Jungle Electrode cards in 1st Edition condition typically sell between US $10–$20 in ungraded condition, and around US $20–$35 when graded PSA 7 (near mint).

For instance, listings on eBay for the Electrode Jungle misprint show offers ranging from roughly US $18 to US $22 for graded or near-mint examples.

Recent Sales Examples

• An ungraded misprint in near mint listed around US $21–22.
• A CGC-graded 7.5 copy (mid-tier grade) selling for about US $21–25.
• Higher graded examples, such as PSA 8 graded error copies, have been offered as high as US $75.

The combination of misprint and higher grade can boost values significantly some top-tier graded errors have reached triple-digit prices when demand peaks.

How to Identify an Authentic Misprint

If you’re evaluating a possible Electrode Jungle misprint, consider the following checklist:

• Verify the card stamp clearly says Jungle and shows the 1st Edition symbol beside the Jungle logo.
• Compare the artwork if it matches the Base Set Electrode rather than the Jungle art, it’s likely the misprint.
• Check condition carefully. Look for common flaws such as centering, surface wear, scratches, or print lines.
• Preferably, have the card graded by a trusted grading service (e.g. PSA or CGC) to confirm the misprint and assess grade.

Without proper verification, a misaligned or altered card could be misconstrued as a misprint when it’s just wear or poor print quality.

Why Electrode 1st Edition Jungle Stands Out

There are several reasons why this card draws attention in the Pokémon collecting world.

• Error Variety: Unique misprints especially those combining two classic sets are rare and visually interesting.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Jungle and Base Set are among the earliest Pokémon TCG expansions, so collectors value anything that connects both.
• Affordable Entry Point: Compared to ultra-rare holo rares, this misprint can be found at moderate prices, making it accessible while still collectible.

The card represents a sweet spot: a genuine error rarity that remains attainable for mid-range collectors.

Collector Tips and Recommendations

If you’re considering acquiring this misprint, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Always request high-resolution images if buying online confirm the artwork matches Base Set Electrode while the set stamp shows Jungle.
• Ask for grading reports or opt for newly graded copies to ensure authenticity.
• Compare sales histories use price-tracking tools like PriceCharting or eBay Completed Sales to gauge fair value.
• Watch for condition issues many error copies are handled and may show wear which can reduce value.

For display collections or thematic tribute sets, this card adds an interesting narrative layer and visual conversation piece.

Comparisons: Electrode vs. Other Jungle Misprints

Other Jungle cards have rare misprints too, but the Electrode error is particularly appealing because the artwork difference is so obvious. Many other misprints involve minor color shifts or misaligned stamps less striking to non-experts.

Because the Electrode misprint combines clear artwork mismatch with a card from a highly collectible early expansion (Jungle), it stands out even among fellow misprinted cards.

Similar Misprint Phenomena to Note

• Base Set Holos accidentally printed in Jungle stamp sheets.
• Set symbol misalignment where 1st Edition stamp is present but foil pattern differs.
• Regional print variations where artwork or logos differ between English and foreign-language cards.

But Electrode stands out because it merges two distinct art sets into one rare hybrid artifact.

Why Error Cards Matter to Collectors

Error cards like Electrode Jungle misprint serve as natural curiosities they remind us that card printing was once a manual and imperfect process. To many collectors, they represent the human touch behind mass production, and often carry stories of print sheet swaps and oversight.

Moreover, as graded rarities, they become quantitative assets: a PSA 9 misprint may command several times the value of a standard Jungle Electrode PSA 9 card. The combination of nostalgia and scarcity fuels demand.

The Electrode 1st Edition Jungle misprint is a fascinating collectible: a rare, visual error that blends two classic sets into one card. While standard Jungle Electrode cards remain affordable often priced between US $10 and US $35 depending on grade error versions can reach US $50 to US $75 or more depending on condition and grading. As a clear and striking misprint, it appeals to both serious Pokémon memorabilia collectors and casual fans looking for something unique.

Whether you’re hunting it down for display, investment, or nostalgia, knowing how to identify the misprint and evaluate its condition is essential. Its blend of early-set appeal, printing error charm, and moderate rarity ensures Electrode remains a standout among Pokémon Jungle collectors proof that even small mistakes can become big treasures.