Most Valuable Scarlet and Violet EX Cards: Top Picks & Grading Tips

Estimated reading time: 10 min

Key Takeaways

• The most valuable Scarlet and Violet EX cards can reach prices up to around $1,200 in PSA 10 condition as of 2026-08-10.
• Special Illustration Rare EX cards often command higher prices than regular EX and Hyper Rare variants.
• Set-specific values vary, with Prismatic Evolutions and Paldean Fates containing many high-value cards.
• Centering and surface quality are common grading obstacles for PSA 10—Midpoint’s AI grading estimates can help collectors assess cards before submission.
• English and Japanese card prices differ; mixed-market listings may affect perceived values.

The Scarlet and Violet era introduced a dynamic wave of EX cards that have attracted both collectors and investors. Whether you are hunting for the best EX cards to grade or aiming to understand value shifts across sets like Prismatic Evolutions and Paldean Fates, this listicle breaks down some of the most valuable Scarlet and Violet EX cards in 2024. We also explore why certain Special Illustration Rare (SIR) EX cards often command premium prices, how grading impacts value, and what to watch for when submitting your cards. Using data from Midpoint’s extensive database, you’ll gain insights to help optimize your collection’s worth.

Card values — live data from Midpoint's card database, as of 2026-08-10. Prices move; Midpoint refreshes these daily.

	Card	Raw	PSA 10	Gem premium
	Rayquaza ex #039 Nintendo Black Star Promos (2003)	$517.27	$27,325	52.8×
	Rayquaza ex #97/97 Dragon (2003)	$210.31	$23,333	111×
	Rayquaza ex δ #97/101 Dragon Frontiers (2006)	$330.00	$20,202	61.2×
	Altaria ex δ #90/101 Dragon Frontiers (2006)	$98.81	$17,000	172.1×
	Mew ex #100/110 Holon Phantoms (2006)	$525.31	$13,865	26.4×
	Gyarados ex #109/112 FireRed & LeafGreen (2004)	$237.60	$13,443	56.6×
	Vaporeon ex #110/113 Delta Species (2005)	$254.33	$13,129	51.6×
	Tyranitar ex #111/115 Unseen Forces (2005)	$499.99	$12,221	24.4×
	Groudon ex #002 Nintendo Black Star Promos (2003)	$150.00	$12,000	80×
	Espeon ex #102/115 Unseen Forces (2005)	$39.75	$11,400	286.8×
	Rocket's Raikou ex #108/107 Deoxys (2005)	$284.99	$10,103	35.5×
	Mewtwo ex #101/109 Ruby & Sapphire (2003)	$368.94	$9,412	25.5×

Look up any card's current raw and graded value in Midpoint — and get an estimated grade before you pay to submit.

1. Umbreon EX (Prismatic Evolutions): A Top-Valued Chase Card

Umbreon EX from the Prismatic Evolutions set is among the most valuable Scarlet and Violet EX cards, with raw market prices around $500 and PSA 10 grades reaching up to approximately $1,200 as of 2026-08-10. Its popularity stems from a combination of appealing artwork, relatively low pull rates, and demand among collectors.

This chase Pokémon’s appeal is amplified by its Special Illustration Rare (SIR) status, which makes it a sought-after card. The card’s centering and surface quality significantly affect grading outcomes, so using Midpoint’s AI digital grading can help you gauge whether your Umbreon EX is worth submitting.

• Raw value: around $500
• PSA 10 value: up to about $1,200
• Key grading blockers: centering and surface wear

2. Garchomp EX (Paldean Fates): High Demand and Strong Prices

Garchomp EX from Paldean Fates commands strong prices, with PSA 10 values reported near $900. Its artwork and status as a fan-favorite dragon Pokémon contribute to its desirability. Investors also favor this card due to its rarity and inclusion in a popular expansion.

Collectors should note that Garchomp EX’s edges can sometimes exhibit minor whitening, which impacts grading. Using Midpoint’s centering measurement tools can help determine if the card qualifies for top grades.

• Raw value: around $400
• PSA 10 value: approximately $900
• Common grading issues: edge wear, centering misalignment

3. Special Illustration Rare EX Cards: Premium Variants Worth Targeting

Special Illustration Rare (SIR) EX cards often outperform regular EX cards and many Hyper Rares in value. Their unique artwork and relative scarcity create strong market demand. For example, the SIR Umbreon EX from Prismatic Evolutions is priced higher than its regular EX counterpart.

Collectors aiming for the best EX cards to grade should prioritize SIR cards, but be aware that their intricate art can make centering and surface grading more challenging. Midpoint’s AI grading estimates can provide useful insights into these nuances.

• Higher prices than regular and Hyper Rare EX cards
• Unique artwork drives collector interest
• Greater grading difficulty due to detailed art and centering

4. Destined Rivals EX Cards: Emerging Cards with Potential

The Destined Rivals set, while newer and less hyped, includes several EX cards gaining attention in 2024. Some cards in this set have shown steady price appreciation, especially in PSA 10 condition. Collectors may want to monitor these cards as they could represent undervalued assets.

Examples include certain fighting-type Pokémon with distinctive artwork and limited print runs. Their value trajectory suggests potential for collectors and investors.

• Steady price growth in PSA 10
• Good addition for diversified portfolios
• Grading tip: watch for corner wear on these cards

5. English vs Japanese Market Pricing: Understanding the Differences

Scarlet and Violet EX cards often have different valuations in English and Japanese markets. English cards tend to command higher prices internationally, but Japanese cards can sometimes be undervalued despite rarity. Mixed-market listings on auction sites may affect perceived values.

Collectors should focus on region-specific pricing trends and use tools like Midpoint to compare raw vs graded values across languages before making purchases or sales.

• English cards generally more expensive globally
• Japanese cards occasionally undervalued but rare
• Use market-specific data to avoid overpaying

6. How Grading Impacts Scarlet and Violet EX Card Values

Grading quality significantly affects prices, especially in PSA 10 condition. Many EX cards fail to reach PSA 10 due to centering and surface imperfections. For example, while raw Umbreon EX cards sell for around $500, PSA 10 examples can command substantially higher prices.

Midpoint’s AI digital grading tool offers estimated grades based on centering, corners, edges, and surface. This helps collectors decide whether to submit cards for professional grading, potentially saving money and maximizing returns.

• PSA 10 premiums can be multiple times raw prices
• Centering and surface are the main grading hurdles
• Digital grading tools reduce grading submission risks

7. Set-by-Set Breakdown: Where to Find the Most Valuable EX Cards

The Scarlet and Violet expansions vary in their EX card value density. Notably:

• Prismatic Evolutions: Home to top chase cards like Umbreon EX, with several high-value SIR EX cards.
• Paldean Fates: Strong mix of fan favorites such as Garchomp EX with rising prices.
• 151: Features classic Pokémon reprints with moderate EX card value.
• Destined Rivals: Emerging set with underappreciated EX cards gaining momentum.
• Temporal Forces: Newer expansions still establishing market price trends.

Collectors and investors may want to target Prismatic Evolutions and Paldean Fates for some of the highest-value EX cards in 2024.

8. Full-Art Trainer and Non-EX Chase Cards: Valuable Complementary Picks

Though EX cards often dominate value discussions, full-art trainer and non-EX chase cards from Scarlet and Violet also hold notable worth. Some full-art trainers have been known to exceed $300 in PSA 10, offering alternative investment routes.

Collectors focused on diversification may consider these cards alongside EX picks. Midpoint’s portfolio tracking allows monitoring of overall collection value, including these complementary cards.

• Full-art trainers valued around $200-$350 in PSA 10
• Non-EX chase cards offer portfolio balance
• Tracking tools help monitor value shifts over time

9. Why Certain EX Cards Are So Valuable: Chase Pokémon, Art, and Scarcity

The premium on many Scarlet and Violet EX cards generally comes down to three factors:

• Chase Pokémon: Popular species with fan appeal like Umbreon and Garchomp.
• Artwork: Special Illustration Rare cards with unique, detailed art.
• Pull Rates: Lower availability increases rarity and desirability.

Understanding these drivers helps collectors spot potentially valuable cards and avoid overpaying for less desirable variants.

10. Tracking Value Shifts and Market Prices with Midpoint

Scarlet and Violet EX card prices fluctuate regularly based on market demand, grading population reports, and new product releases. Using Midpoint’s updated marketplace data and collection tracking features can help keep you informed on value changes.

For instance, price differences between ungraded and PSA 10 cards are tracked to aid better buying and selling decisions. Midpoint also assists with precise centering measurement, a key factor in obtaining top grades.

• Daily-updated market data for 250,000+ cards
• Real-time portfolio valuation tracking
• Accurate AI-based centering and grading estimates

Conclusion

Knowing some of the most valuable Scarlet and Violet EX cards and understanding the nuances of grading and market pricing can enhance your collecting or investing strategy. Cards like Umbreon EX and Garchomp EX from Prismatic Evolutions and Paldean Fates are among the higher-value picks, especially in PSA 10 condition. Special Illustration Rare cards generally command higher premiums, but grading challenges like centering and surface wear remain common obstacles.

Leverage tools like Midpoint to pre-grade your cards digitally, track your portfolio value, and make informed decisions on which EX cards to submit for professional grading. Staying updated on daily price shifts and regional market differences can help you maximize your collection’s potential in 2024 and beyond.

FAQ

Q: What is the most valuable Scarlet & Violet EX card right now?

A: Umbreon EX from the Prismatic Evolutions set is among the top, with PSA 10 values reported up to around $1,200 as of 2026-08-10.

Q: Which Scarlet & Violet EX cards are worth the most in PSA 10?

A: Cards like Umbreon EX, Garchomp EX, and Special Illustration Rare variants typically command some of the highest prices in PSA 10 condition.

Q: Are Special Illustration Rare EX cards more valuable than regular EX cards?

A: Generally, SIR EX cards have higher values due to unique artwork and relative rarity compared to regular and Hyper Rare EX cards.

Q: What Scarlet & Violet set has the most expensive cards?

A: Prismatic Evolutions is known for several top-value EX cards, followed closely by Paldean Fates.

Q: Why is Umbreon EX from Prismatic Evolutions so expensive?

A: Its combination of chase Pokémon status, appealing SIR artwork, and relatively low pull rates contributes to its high value.

Q: How often do Scarlet & Violet card prices change?

A: Prices fluctuate regularly based on market demand, grading population, and new releases. Using tools like Midpoint helps collectors stay updated in real time.