Zapdos No. 145 – Mystery of the Fossils – Rare Holo – Old Back (JP)
Introduction
Zapdos represents the Electric-type member of Kanto's legendary bird trio. Its original and fossil-era cards differ, making the expansion, HP and attack combination important identifiers. This is the Japanese Mystery of the Fossils printing, identified by No. 145, with the original Pocket Monsters card back. The illustration is credited to Ken Sugimori, with the condition of this individual copy detailed below.
Card Details
- Pokémon: Zapdos
- Set: Mystery of the Fossils
- Japanese Set Name: 化石の秘密
- English Expansion Reference: Fossil — separate release and checklist
- Card Number: No. 145 (National Pokédex number)
- Rarity: Rare Holo
- Language: Japanese
- Card Back: Japanese Old Back
- Illustrator: Ken Sugimori
- Condition: Near Mint as recorded in the supplied inventory; physical condition awaits confirmation from individual front and back photographs.
- Finish: Holofoil
About the Pokémon
Zapdos is the Electric Pokémon, recorded as No. 145 in the National Pokédex. It was introduced in Generation I, associated with the Kanto generation of games. Its appearance is associated with storm clouds and lightning. Its status as a Legendary Pokémon is part of its wider franchise identity.
About the Expansion
Mystery of the Fossils was released in Japan on 21 June 1997 as the third main expansion. Its 48-card checklist features prehistoric Pokémon alongside ghosts, legendary birds and other Kanto species. The Japanese release includes Mew and retains the original Pocket Monsters card back, distinguishing it from the later English expansion.
Artwork & Collector's Notes
Ken Sugimori is credited for this Mystery of the Fossils illustration of Zapdos. The holofoil finish, original Pocket Monsters reverse and Japanese text identify this printing. The No. 145 identifier is a Pokédex number, not an English set checklist position.
Photographs: Actual-card photographs are pending.