Pokémon: The Electric Tale of Pikachu ##1
Viz Comics • Pokémon: The Electric Tale of Pikachu (1998 Viz Series)
Writer
Toshihiro Ono
Interior Artist
Toshihiro Ono
Cover Artist
Toshihiro Ono
Publication Date
November 1998
Cover Variant
Regular Edition
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
Adaptation of the Pokémon anime. Ash Ketchum finds a Pikachu under his porch and sets out on his journey to become a Pokémon Master. This issue covers his initial bonding with Pikachu and meeting Misty.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Fine (CGC 6.0)
Condition Details
Visible color-breaking spine stress/ticks (at least 3-4 significant ones), blunting on the bottom left corner, potential edge wear on the right side, and general surface scuffing visible through the polybag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $30 - $55; Graded (CGC 9.8): $350 - $500; Graded (CGC 6.0 Estimate): $40 - $60
Recent Sales
Raw copies in mid-to-high grade typically sell for $40-$60; CGC 9.8 copies have reached over $450 due to high demand among Pokémon collectors.
Grading Recommendation
Not recommended for professional grading in current condition. The spine stress and corner wear likely cap the grade at a 6.0-7.0 range. Grading is only financially beneficial for this issue if it is likely to hit a 9.6 or higher.
Notable Features
First appearance of Ash Ketchum, Pikachu, and Misty in American comic books. This is the first printing distinguishable by the $2.95 price point (later printings often had no price or higher prices). Features the 'Official Nintendo Licensed Product' seal.
Authentication Notes
Appears authentic with correct 'Viz Comics' logo and 'Monthly $2.95 USA/$3.95 CAN' price line. Ink density and paper sheen are consistent with 1998 Viz floppy magazine-style prints.