At We Love Collectibles, we’re collectors ourselves. We are always on the hunt for interesting stock, from the very latest TCG releases to rare, out-of-print boxes that you won’t find on most shop shelves.
This is especially true when it comes to Pokémon TCG Elite Trainer Boxes. They are a cornerstone of any sealed collection, but it can be confusing. Why does one brand new ETB cost £50, while another from a few years ago, like the 20th Anniversary Generations box, commands a price of over £1,800?
This guide looks at some of the incredible ETBs currently in our collection, breaking down what makes each one a unique piece for any serious collector.
The Collector's Edge: Pokémon Center vs. Regular ETBs
One of the first things collectors notice is the “Pokémon Center” exclusive ETB. These are special editions that, as the name suggests, are primarily sold through the official Pokémon Center. They almost always command a higher price, both at release and on the secondary market. This is for two simple reasons: they contain more packs (for example, 11 packs instead of 9 in the Temporal Forces era), and they include a second, exclusive full-art promo card you can’t get in the standard version.
This built-in scarcity makes them a premium item from day one. You can see this with our current stock of the Pokémon TCG Scarlet & Violet – Temporal Forces Pokémon Center ETB (Walking Wake) (£140.00) and the upcoming Pokémon TCG Surging Sparks Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box (£260.00).
So, What Makes an Old ETB So Expensive?
Beyond the Pokémon Center premium, several factors can turn a standard ETB into a high-value collectible over time. This is a key part of any Pokémon Elite Trainer Box Collector’s Guide.
Age & Scarcity: The simplest reason is time. As sets go out of print, the number of sealed ETBs in circulation naturally falls. Boxes from older eras become true time capsules. A fantastic example is the Pokémon TCG Sun & Moon – Ultra Prism Elite Trainer Box from 2018, a set that introduced the fan-favourite Prism Star cards.
The Power of the Set: A set’s reputation is everything. Boxes from sets filled with iconic “chase cards” are always in high demand. The modern champion of this is Evolving Skies. It’s packed with stunning alternate art Eeveelutions that collectors are desperate to pull, which has made sealed Evolving Skies ETBs incredibly sought-after.
Special Sets: Some expansions, like Crown Zenith, Paldean Fates, and Dragon Majesty, are “special sets.” You can’t buy their booster packs from a standard booster box, making the ETB one of the main ways to get them. This limited availability boosts their long-term value.
A Tour Through the Eras: High-Value ETBs at WLC
We are incredibly proud of the rare and high-value ETBs we’ve managed to track down for the community. Our current collection features some true milestones in Pokémon TCG history.
The 20th Anniversary Icon: Generations ETB
A true piece of Pokémon history, the Pokémon TCG Generations Elite Trainer Box (£1,800.00) was released in 2016 to celebrate the 20th Anniversary. With its exclusive Shaymin-EX promo and packs you couldn’t get anywhere else, it stands as one of the ultimate sealed grails for any modern collector.
The Modern Legend: Evolving Skies ETBs
We currently have both iconic Eeveelution-themed versions of the Evolving Skies ETB (£400.00) in stock. Whether you prefer the artwork featuring Flareon, Jolteon, Umbreon, and Leafeon, or the Sylveon, Glaceon, Vaporeon, and Espeon (£400.00) version, these boxes are a must-have.
The Sun & Moon Powerhouses: Unified Minds & Dragon Majesty
Representing an era of growing scarcity, the Pokémon TCG Unified Minds Elite Trainer Box (£1,400.00) and the Pokémon TCG Dragon Majesty Elite Trainer Box (£800.00) are fantastic examples of out-of-print sets that are increasingly hard to find sealed.
The Hidden Gem: Lost Origin PC ETB
Another highly desirable Pokémon Center exclusive, the Pokémon TCG Lost Origin Pokemon Center Elite Trainer Box (£350.00) features the return of the Lost Zone mechanic and some incredible Giratina artwork.
The Next Chapter: Phantasmal Flames Pre-Orders are Live!
Looking ahead, the next major release is Pokémon TCG: Phantasmal Flames, arriving on November 14th. This set continues the exciting Mega Evolution era, and pre-orders have begun dropping on the WLC website. Be sure to check the product pages and secure yours for the next chapter of the TCG!
Get More From Every Duel with WLC Rewards!
With so many exciting sets to collect, there’s never been a better time to join the new WLC Rewards Programme. Earn points on every purchase, both online and in-store, and convert them into discounts on your next order.
Shop Your Way
Discover our full range of singles and sealed products online, or visit us in-store for the ultimate treasure hunt!
Our Address: Unit 101, Westwood Business Park, Margate CT9 4JJ.
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Unit 101, Westwood Business Park, Margate CT9 4JJ
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