Rainbow borders, playable cards, and a brand-new Bulbasaur. What more could we ask for?
Every Pokémon TCG expansion has its own flavour, and Stellar Crown is no different. Released in late 2024, this set introduces stunning new artwork for some of the original base Pokémon. Squirtle (illustrated by Saboteri) and Bulbasaur (illustrated by Orca) became instant binder hits, selling quickly and cementing themselves as the must-have cards of the set.
Although Stellar Crown is the smallest main set since Forbidden Light in 2018, it makes up for it with bold splashes of colour, gem-like finishes, and some truly adorable designs. The set feels like it was built for everyone: competitive players chasing new strategies and collectors hunting showcase pieces for their binders.
What Makes Stellar Crown Unique?
At first glance, Stellar Crown might seem compact compared to other Scarlet & Violet expansions. But this smaller size makes every pull feel that little bit more meaningful.
Instead of bulk fillers, Stellar Crown leans hard into collector favourites. The artwork is a standout across the board, with Special Illustration Rares that are mini masterpieces.
If you’re a cute collector like me, you won’t want to miss these 3 adorable additions to your binders.
Milcery, Gulpin & Dachsbun. Credit: TCG Player
One of the most unique things about Stellar Crown is its spotlight on the Stellar-type Pokémon from the Scarlet and Violet DLC. At the heart of the set is Stellar Form Terapagos EX, a dazzling new take on the legendary Pokémon that shines with rainbow-like borders and gem-inspired finishes.
The set also introduces other Stellar Pokémon, such as Lapras EX, Galvantula EX and a Monster Mart favourite Cinderace EX.
On the playable side, the set introduces a handful of EX cards that have found spots in competitive decks. Cards like Terapagos EX provide both power and versatility, while Trainer cards such as Glass Trumpet bring clever support options that players are experimenting with in tournaments.
Pulls Rates for Stellar Crown
After opening over 8,000 booster packs, the TCGplayer Authentication Center found that while Stellar Crown’s overall hit rates are similar to past sets, the smaller set size makes it easier to pull specific cards.
According to TCGplayer, ‘SIR Terapagos ex is almost twice as easy to pull in Stellar Crown (six SIRs) as SIR Greninja ex was in Twilight Masquerade (11 SIRs).’
Better odds mean collectors have a smoother chase. You’re more likely to land the card you want without burning through endless packs, making Stellar Crown one of the most rewarding sets to open.
If you want to avoid the dreaded Evolving Cries experience, Stellar Crown is the set for you.
Chase Cards You’ll Want to Pull
Every set has chase cards. For Stellar Crown, a few stand out as the biggest hits:
Terapagos EX (Special Illustration Rare #170)
As the cover Pokémon of the set, Terapagos EX is both playable and collectible. Its alt art is packed with detail and shimmering finishes, making it a grail-tier pull. Raw copies are currently going for $95 - $115AUD
Terapagos EX #170. Credit: TCG Player
Bulbasaur (Illustration Rare #143)
Another nod to the Kanto era. This card oozes charm, with soft colours and delightful details that make it pop in any binder. Market prices sit at $90 - $105AUD ungraded.
Bulbasaur #143. Credit: TCG Player
Squirtle (Illustration Rare #148)
The undisputed star of the set so far. Its whimsical artwork has made it one of the most valuable pulls, with raw copies selling around $90-$110AUD.
Squirtle #148. Credit: TCG Player
Pulling any of these pack fresh is a big win.
They’re not just beautiful showcase pieces, they’re also holding their value well, which makes them even more exciting to own. While sealed packs are getting harder to find, Stellar Crown blister packs remain on shelves, keeping the set accessible for new collectors.
Top Playable Cards in Stellar Crown
While collectors are drawn to the Illustration Rares, players haven’t been left out. Stellar Crown includes some strong cards that are already making their way into competitive decks.
Terapagos EX (#170 and variants)
Beyond being a collector’s grail, Terapagos EX has the stats and moves that make it a powerhouse in competitive play. It’s versatile, tanky, and looks great on the board.
Dachsbun EX (#169)
A sneaky addition to the set, Dachsbun ex is proving itself as a solid support Pokémon. Its ability to protect other Pokémon on your bench makes it a card worth testing in deck builds.
Glass Trumpet (Trainer #135)
Trainers often decide the pace of a match, and Glass Trumpet is already drawing attention. Its utility in setting up combos makes it a must-watch card for competitive players.
Even if you’re a collector first and a player second, it’s always fun to know which cards are making waves in tournaments.
Tips for Completing the Stellar Crown Card List
Even though it’s smaller, finishing the Stellar Crown set is still a satisfying challenge. Here’s how to make the process smoother:
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Keep a checklist: Nothing beats the satisfaction of ticking off each number as you go.
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Trade duplicates: Local events or online groups are perfect for swapping those extra rares for what you’re missing.
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Protect your pulls: Illustration and Special Illustration Rares deserve sleeves and toploaders/binders straight away.
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Ripping packs doesn't always pay. Although it may not be as exciting as pulling the SIR yourself, recieving your chase card in the mail and sliding it safely into your binder is satisfying and often cheaper in the long run.
Trainer's Takeaway
The Stellar Crown card list might be shorter than most Scarlet & Violet expansions, but it packs more excitement per card, while being an affordable set to master.
From playful Kanto throwbacks to competitive stars, this expansion balances stunning artwork with genuinely playable cards.
Whether you’re filling your binder, building your deck, or chasing grails, Stellar Crown proves that sometimes the smallest sets make the biggest impact.
Don't sleep on this set!
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