Prototype Card Scandal: Forged Pikachu Sheets and Watermark Revelations

Prototype Card Scandal Deepens: Potential Forgeries Uncovered

The prototype card scandal continues to unfold as new revelations cast doubt on the authenticity of highly sought-after Pokémon trophy cards.

In December, uncut sheets featuring the famous Pikachu Trophy cards and a Pikachu Illustrator card surfaced for sale through reputable Pokémon sellers. At least one set was purchased by Xiao, a well-known Chinese collector, for an undisclosed amount—potentially exceeding several million dollars. Xiao recently posted images of his sheets online.

Uncut Sheets & Akabane’s Connection

Another set of these uncut sheets appears to bear the signature of Takumi Akabane, a retired Creatures Inc. employee known for selling off prototype Pokémon cards last year. Akabane had attended multiple events to sign cards, leading many to believe the sheets originated from his collection.

However, a shocking discovery has cast doubt on their legitimacy. One of the Pikachu sheets has been found with 2024 watermarks, despite these cards originally being released in the 1990s. Additionally, the serial number on the printer matches that of the embroiled prototype card scandal, strongly suggesting at least one of these sets is forged.

This revelation raises concerns about the authenticity of all uncut sheets linked to the same origin.

Forgery Investigation Underway

It remains unclear whether Takumi Akabane was knowingly involved in what may be an ongoing scam. The investigation is still unfolding, and authentication company CGC is actively conducting a formal review. More details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.

The Value of Pikachu Trophy & Illustrator Cards

The Pikachu Trophy cards were originally awarded to the top three finishers at Japan’s national tournaments between 1997 and 1998. A full set of three sold for nearly $800,000 last year.

Meanwhile, the Pikachu Illustrator card is considered the holy grail of Pokémon cards, with one copy selling for up to $5 million. Originally awarded in 1998 through CoroCoro magazine’s illustrator contests, it is estimated that around 39 copies exist.

With ongoing scrutiny and mounting evidence of forgery, this scandal could have major implications for high-value Pokémon collectibles.

***Images gathered from pokebeach.com***