Pokémon TCG: Ethan's Magcargo #197 PSA 9 - Japanese

Ethan’s Magcargo 197/193 PSA 9 Japanese Pokémon card – Art Rare from MEGA Dream ex

For collectors of modern Japanese Pokémon TCG graded cards, Ethan’s Magcargo 197/193 PSA 9 is a striking and sought-after piece. This card is an Art Rare (AR) edition from M2a: High Class Pack – MEGA Dream ex, and it has been professionally graded as PSA 9 (Mint). The card combines an exclusive Japanese release, a partner–Pokémon theme, and unique artwork by Hideki Ishikawa — all presented in an authentic, graded format.

About the card: Identity and rarity

Ethan’s Magcargo 197/193 is a Japanese single card from M2a: High Class Pack – MEGA Dream ex (set code M2a), released as part of the Scarlet/Violet era’s high class pack series. The card is classified as Art Rare (AR) and features over-secret numbering (197/193), making it one of the set’s most exclusive chase cards. The artwork depicts Magcargo alongside Ethan (Hibiki in the Japanese version), the protagonist from the Johto region.

• Set: M2a: High Class Pack – MEGA Dream ex
• Card number: 197/193 (Art Rare, over-secret)
• Language: Japanese
• Type: Stage 1 Fire-type Pokémon
• Rarity: Art Rare (full art holo)
• HP: 130
• Ability – Melt Away: If the card has no Energy attached, it has no Retreat Cost
• Attack – Lava Burst: [Fire][Fire][Fire] – discard up to 5 Fire Energy; 70 damage per Energy
• Weakness: Water ×2
• Retreat Cost: 3 (basic)

PSA 9 grading – what does it mean?

This example is PSA-graded and receives the grade PSA 9 – Mint. That means the card appears in nearly flawless condition with minimal wear, sharp corners, and well-centered printing. PSA’s authentication ensures you receive a genuine Japanese Pokémon TCG card, protected in an official slab with a unique serial-number identification. For collectors of Graded cards this type of grading is a mark of quality and an important factor for both preservation and documentation.

Unique artwork and mechanical characteristics

The card’s artwork was created by Hideki Ishikawa, known for his detailed and atmospheric style. The illustration depicts Magcargo and Ethan/Hibiki in a full-art holo design that highlights the partner–Pokémon theme. As an Art Rare, the 197/193 edition differs significantly from the standard card (019/193) in both finish and collector status.

Relevance for Japanese Pokémon collectors

Ethan’s Magcargo 197/193 AR is a popular choice among collectors of Japanese Pokémon cards and graded chase cards from recent high class packs. The combination of the partner–Pokémon theme, Art Rare status, and PSA 9 grading makes this card a strong collectible for anyone who values authenticity, condition, and Japanese TCG culture. See also our selection of Pokémon cards for more Japanese and international collector cards.