Tragic Death of Pokémon Influencer Sparks Unprecedented Surge in Jirachi Card Prices

For the secondary market of Pokémon trading cards, the days immediately following a set’s release are usually defined by volatility and a steady downward drift, with chase cards like the Special Illustration Rare Jirachi ex from the Pokémon 30th Anniversary set following the expected trajectory. That pattern, however, broke entirely in late September, when the average asking price for the Jirachi ex Special Illustration Rare card nearly doubled within a matter of days, climbing from $81 to roughly $118 — a jump of about 45% — and, in some cases, reaching as high as $198 depending on condition and centering. The sudden spike traces directly to a heartbreaking event: the death of 12-year-old Pokémon content creator Avery The Poke Kid, whose final pack opening went viral after he pulled the very card that would become the set’s most sought-after collectible.

A Final Pull That Resonated

The catalyst for the market’s unusual behavior is a sad one. Earlier in September, news broke that Avery had passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. Known for his cheerful disposition despite his difficult circumstances, Avery had become a beloved figure within the Pokémon community. His content frequently emphasized the value of cherishing the cards one already owns, regardless of their monetary worth, and he often reminded his audience to live life to the fullest — a message he lived out between chemotherapy sessions and surgeries.

Prior to his passing on September 18, Avery’s parents recorded a final video of him opening one last Pokémon pack. To his delight, that final pack contained the Jirachi ex #155 card, illustrated by Akira Egawa. The bittersweet unboxing captured the attention of viewers, in large part because of the significance of the card Avery pulled on what would be his last opportunity to open a pack.

“Avery possessed a rare generosity of spirit. He gave cards and gifts to other children, brought happiness into hospital rooms, and used his own journey to bring hope to families walking through difficult seasons of their own. He never wanted the world to feel sorry for him. He wanted the world to share in his joy.”

Image: Akira Egawa/The Pokemon Company

Avery’s obituary

The Symbolism of Jirachi

Jirachi is a legendary Pokémon originating from Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, celebrated for its ability to grant wishes. According to its Pokédex entries, the Metal/Psychic-type creature spends a thousand years in a deep slumber, awakening for only a single week during which it fulfills three dreams. It then returns to sleep — though legend holds that it can be awakened by those who are pure of heart.

In that sense, the spirit of Jirachi made the legendary a fitting final pull for Avery. That coincidence, combined with a heartfelt response from card artist Akira Egawa, helped the story spread across major news outlets and influencers. Awareness of the card has since expanded across the board, driving demand through marketplaces such as TCGPlayer and eBay.

A Market Out of Step With Its Subject

While most fans attribute the sudden interest in the Jirachi card to Avery’s memory, the resulting price boom has not been entirely positive. In one notable instance, an eBay user attempted to capitalize on the moment by listing the card for $20,000 under Avery’s name. The listing has since been pulled down, but the episode underscored a broader concern among collectors about exploiting a tragedy for personal gain.

Despite the controversy, the card’s connection to Avery has only strengthened its cultural footprint. Many buyers have openly stated they purchased the card in his honor, with some referring to the illustration card as simply “Avery’s Jirachi.” For the community, the card has transcended its status as a mere chase card to become a symbol of remembrance.

Looking Ahead

As the Pokémon 30th Anniversary set continues to circulate through the secondary market, the Jirachi ex Special Illustration Rare is expected to remain one of the most actively traded cards in the collection, with prices likely to stay elevated well beyond the initial surge. Collectors and resellers alike are watching the market closely, mindful of the ethical line between honoring Avery’s legacy and profiting from it. For now, the card stands as both a testament to Avery’s impact on the Pokémon community and a reminder of the delicate balance between fandom, memory, and commerce.