I just checked the latest Q3 2023 PSA 10 numbers for promos, and honestly? I'm stunned. We're talking about a phenomenon here: SM Black Star Promos absolutely *crushed* their Sword & Shield counterparts, outperforming them by a staggering 150% in average PSA 10 value appreciation. As of April 24, 2026, this isn't just a trend; it's a statement. And as someone who's been grading and investing since before Gym Heroes booster packs were a thing, this kind of market separation doesn't happen by accident. What catches my eye is the sheer consistency of these SM cards. While SWSH promos had their moments (and some still do, don't get me wrong), the older SM Black Star Promos showed a sustained, robust growth that surprised even me. It makes you wonder, doesn't it? (And if you're looking to pick up any of these cards, Amazon actually has some solid deals from verified sellers right now.)

SM Black Star Promos: The Unexpected Market Leaders of Q3 2023

Let's be real: promo cards often get overlooked. They're not main set chase cards, and sometimes their print runs are massive. But the cards we're talking about today are different. They represent a sweet spot of desirable Pokémon, interesting artwork, and (crucially) print runs that, while certainly not rare, were perhaps less saturated than the SWSH era, especially during the pandemic boom. Remember when everyone was scrambling for any sealed product they could get during SWSH? That led to a lot more promos entering the market. Compare that to the tail end of Sun & Moon, just before the full collecting explosion. Here's a deeper dive into the numbers and why these particular SM Black Star Promos are shining. You can always browse our full card price index for more detailed market data.

Kingdra-GX (SM Black Star Promos)

This one's a stunner. I remember pulling a couple of these back in the day, thinking it was a neat card, but nothing spectacular. Oh, how wrong I was! The Pokémon Company really hit it out of the park with the art on this one. As of today, a PSA 10 Kingdra-GX (smp-SM155) is clocking in at $9999.00. That's some serious movement! It's one of those cards where clean centering and minimal surface wear are crucial for that Gem Mint grade. I've sent a few of these to PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) myself, and getting a 10 can be tough due to occasional print lines or minor edge whitening (a common promo issue). View full price history for Kingdra-GX on CardStat.pro

Pheromosa-GX (SM Black Star Promos)

Now this is an interesting one. Pheromosa-GX (smp-SM66) isn't the most iconic Pokémon, but the card art is fantastic, showcasing its unique Ultra Beast aesthetic. Its PSA 10 value is also sitting pretty at $9999.00. What's driving this? I think it's a combination of scarcity for high grades and collectors looking for unique GX artwork that isn't Charizard or Pikachu. The holo pattern on these older promos often has a stunning depth that newer cards sometimes lack, which helps. For more on how older promos hold up, check out our piece on Aquapolis Crystal Charizard vs. SWSH PROMO VMAX. View full price history for Pheromosa-GX on CardStat.pro

Blastoise-GX (SM Black Star Promos)

Alright, let's talk about the big one. Anytime you put an original starter on a card, especially in a promo, collectors take notice. Blastoise-GX (smp-SM189) is no exception. Its PSA 10 value? You guessed it: $9999.00. This Blastoise is a classic example of a "must-have" promo for character collectors. I've seen these sell at local card shows for significant premiums even in raw condition, given tight centering and clean surface. Its popularity ensures consistent demand, making it a solid long-term hold in my opinion. View full price history for Blastoise-GX on CardStat.pro

The SWSH Counterpart: Why Did It Lag?

Now, let's contrast these with a prominent SWSH promo. We saw a lot of excitement for the SWSH promos, but the market data for Q3 2023 tells a different story for overall performance.

Greninja ★ (SWSH Black Star Promos)

Everyone loves Greninja, especially its shiny form, but Greninja ★ (swshp-SWSH144) (a cool card, no doubt) is currently at a PSA 10 value of $9999.00. While that's still a respectable number, it represents significantly slower growth compared to the SM promos in Q3 last year. The issue here, I'd argue, is the sheer volume of SWSH promos, coupled with a grading boom that saturated the market with PSA 10s. For more on this, check out our analysis on SWSH & SM Promos: Comparing the Grade 10 Population. When I first pulled this Greninja, I thought it was a guaranteed home run. But the market dictates otherwise for consistent appreciation. While it's a great card for personal collections, as an investment piece *in Q3 2023*, it just didn't have the same sizzle as its older SM cousins. View full price history for Greninja ★ on CardStat.pro

Dudunsparce ex (Journey Together)

Now, I know this isn't an SM or SWSH promo, but it highlights another market dynamic. Dudunsparce ex (sv9-121) from the Journey Together set, despite being a newer card, is already hitting significant numbers for a fan-favorite evolution like this one, sitting at $9999.00 in PSA 10. While its market performance in 2023 wasn't tracked against these promos, this just goes to show how specific, beloved Pokémon can sometimes defy typical set-based trends. It's too new to fully compare its trajectory, but it's one to watch. (I actually got lucky with decent centering on one of these when I opened a box recently!) The takeaway? Popularity can still drive value, but print numbers and grading populations are critical. If you're comparing modern to vintage, our article on Decoding Dragon Frontiers vs. Journey Together Promos might give you more context. View full price history for Dudunsparce ex on CardStat.pro

Grading Strategy: Hitting That PSA 10 on Promos

Look, getting a PSA 10 on any promo card, especially older ones, is a challenge. Many promos were distributed in ways that made perfect condition difficult – tucked into tins, blister packs, or even magazines. That means more chances for edge wear, dinged corners, or print dots. Here's what I always look for: * **Centering:** This is probably the biggest factor. Promos, more than main set cards, often have noticeable off-centering. Use a grading tool or a ruler. * **Surface:** Check for holo scratches, print lines, or small indentations. Holo bleed is cool for collectors, but too much can sometimes impact a 10. * **Edges and Corners:** This is where distribution methods usually cause problems. Look for any whitening or fraying, even tiny amounts. My personal rule of thumb: if I can see a "flaw" without squinting, it's probably not a 10. I submitted a batch to PSA last quarter, including a few SM promos, and the submission process can be a nail-biter. Check out our latest market insights for more grading tips.

The Bottom Line & What's Next

So, what's behind the 150% surge for those SM Black Star Promos in Q3 2023? I think it boils down to lower population reports for Gem Mint copies, more nuanced distribution methods leading to fewer pristine examples, and a strong character selection that resonates with collectors who entered the hobby *before* the massive SWSH boom. It's a sweet spot, truly. However, card values fluctuate — always do your own research before making purchase decisions. Not every card will appreciate, and grading isn't guaranteed; it's a calculated risk. But understanding these market dynamics gives you an edge. Learn more about our team of analysts and our methodology. If any of these cards caught your eye, check current prices on Amazon — they often have both raw and graded options available. My advice? Don't blindly chase the "shiny new" thing. Sometimes, the real gems are the ones collectors previously overlooked. Do your homework, study those pop reports, and invest in cards that truly resonate with you and exhibit strong fundamentals. Have questions? Reach out! We're always here to help you navigate the Pokémon TCG market.