Pokémon Power Magazine Volume 1, Aug 1998 (Nintendo Power Insert)
Nintendo of America · Books & Media > Magazines
Era / Decade
Late 1990s (1998)
Material
Printed paper with semi-gloss cover; thin newsprint-style interior pages typical of late 90s magazine inserts.
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible corner wear, spine creasing, and significant edge fraying on the right side. The top right corner shows some delamination/peeling. No major staining visible on front, but physical structural wear reduces the grade.
Demand Level
Strong. Early Pokemon memorabilia (1998 precursor era) remains highly liquid among Gen Y collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $15 | Mid: $35 | High: $60 (High end requires near-mint condition)
Estimated Retail Value
$4.95 (Original estimated value when bundled with Nintendo Power Issue #111)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for this specific Volume 1 range from $20 for 'well-loved' copies up to $75+ for flat, crisp copies. CGC graded 9.0+ copies can exceed $200.
Description
Rare first issue of the 'Pokémon Power' mini-magazine series. This 1998 Collector's Edition was originally included as an insert with Nintendo Power magazine to introduce US audiences to Pokemon Red and Blue. Features Ash Ketchum, Pikachu, Charmander, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle on the cover. Includes game profiles, collecting tips, and strategy maps.
Key Features
1st Issue Collector's Edition; First US-based Pokémon promotional literature; predates the massive 1999/2000 craze; highly collectible for 'vintage Nintendo' and 'early Pokémon' enthusiasts.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct 'Volume 1 Aug. 1998' dating; official Nintendo logo and 'Gotta catch 'em all!' trademark styling; correct color saturation for the era. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Softness and fraying along the right vertical edge; blunted corners; spine stress lines (tick marks); slight paper separation on the upper right edge.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the primary market for vintage gaming media. Heritage Auctions or ComicConnect for high-grade copies (though this copy is likely too worn for high-tier auction houses).
Selling Tips
Take high-resolution photos of the spine and all corners to document wear. Use keywords: '1998', 'Vintage Pokemon', 'Nintendo Power', 'First Issue', 'Pre-TCG'. Ship in a rigid mailer with a bag and board to prevent further bending.