Poliwhirl 23-Karat Gold-Plated Trading Card
Burger King / Nintendo · Collectibles & Antiques > Toys & Games
Era / Decade
Late 1999 (Release Date: November 1999)
Material
23-karat gold-plated metal (usually a zinc alloy base) with a protective plastic/acrylic cover (missing)
Condition
Poor: Significant oxidation, tarnishing, and corrosion are visible. The gold plating is worn and pitted. The original clear acrylic protective case and Certificate of Authenticity are missing.
Demand Level
Moderate-Low: While Pokémon is extremely popular, these were mass-produced in the millions. Collectors typically only pay premium prices for 'Complete In Box' (CIB) or mint condition examples.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$5.00 - $15.00
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $10.00 (1999 promotional price with meal purchase)
Comparable Sales
Loose, heavily tarnished individuals sell for $5-$10. Clean individuals without the ball sell for $15-$25. Mint condition sets in original boxes with certificates sell for $50-$100+.
Description
Vintage 1999 Burger King promotional Pokémon Poliwhirl 'card.' This is a heavy, rectangular metal slab featuring a raised relief of the Pokémon Poliwhirl with the Pokémon logo at the top. Originally part of a six-card set released for the first movie, it originally came in a red plastic Poke Ball and a protective plastic casing.
Key Features
Nostalgia item for 90s kids; official Nintendo licensed merchandise; part of a set featuring Pikachu, Mewtwo, Charizard, Togepi, and Jigglypuff.
Authenticity Indicators
Features official '©1995, 1996, 1998 Nintendo' and 'TM' markings in the bottom right corner. Weight and casting quality match known Burger King promotional items. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Extreme tarnishing and dark spots/pitting across the front and back. Missing the red Poke Ball shell, missing the internal plastic protective slab, and missing the paper COA. The oxidation suggests exposure to moisture.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Mercari: These platforms are best for small collectibles and shipping via padded bubble mailer.
Selling Tips
Do not attempt to scrub with harsh abrasives as it will remove the remaining gold plating. List as an 'unrestored/as-is' item. Use keywords like 'Burger King 1999', 'Gold Card', and 'Poliwhirl.' It may be best sold as part of a lot of other vintage Pokémon toys if you have them.