Top 10 Most Valuable Cards from Pokémon TCG: Destined Rivals

The Destined Rivals expansion has taken the Pokémon Trading Card Game community by storm, blending powerful new mechanics with jaw-dropping art and fan-favorite characters. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting into the game, this set offers some of the most visually stunning and financially valuable cards in recent memory.

Here are the 10 most valuable cards from Destined Rivals—each a treasure for collectors, battlers, and fans alike.

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1. Team Rocket's Mewtwo Ex – Special Illustration Rare

Darkness meets power in this visually arresting card that showcases Mewtwo under the control of Team Rocket. The illustration tells a story of corrupted potential—Mewtwo’s raw psychic energy crackling against a moody, shadow-drenched backdrop. This card isn’t just a collector’s piece; it’s a visual narrative, a callback to Mewtwo’s complex origins. With its rarity and storytelling artwork, it's currently the crown jewel of the Destined Rivals set.

 

2. Cynthia's Garchomp Ex – Special Illustration Rare

Cynthia and her iconic Garchomp are front and center in this beautifully detailed card that balances elegance and intensity. The artwork captures a battle-hardened Garchomp at full throttle, while Cynthia remains calm and commanding. This card resonates deeply with fans of the Sinnoh region and is a top-tier collectible thanks to its stunning full-art treatment and the enduring popularity of one of the game’s most beloved Champions.

 

3. Team Rocket's Moltres Ex – Special Illustration Rare

This card reimagines the legendary Moltres in a fiery new light, under the sinister command of Team Rocket. Flames swirl through the sky as Moltres takes flight, radiating menace and power. The gritty, cinematic illustration adds a dark twist to a legendary bird known for its majesty. Combine that with its rarity and villainous branding, and you’ve got one of the most coveted cards in the set.

 

4. Ethan's Ho-Oh Ex – Special Illustration Rare

Step back into the golden days of Johto with this breathtaking depiction of Ethan alongside Ho-Oh soaring majestically across the skies. The card captures the magic of legendary discovery, featuring rich colors, dynamic composition, and a nostalgic emotional pull that will resonate with fans of Pokémon Gold and Silver. It’s not just a card—it’s a memory, preserved in foil. 

 

5. Team Rocket's Crobat Ex – Special Illustration Rare

Sleek, swift, and surrounded by shadows, Crobat dives into battle in this hauntingly atmospheric card. The art leans into Crobat’s stealthy nature, with eerie lighting and a nocturnal cityscape that screams espionage. This card has been climbing in value thanks to its unique visual style and its rarity as part of the Team Rocket series—combining villainy, speed, and style in one collectible. 

 

6. Team Rocket's Nidoking Ex – Special Illustration Rare

Old-school power gets a modern makeover. Nidoking is depicted in a brutal, earth-shattering pose, exuding raw might and loyalty to Team Rocket. The dynamic angle and gritty textures bring a sense of motion and fury, appealing to fans of Kanto’s original lineup and lovers of villainous aesthetics. It’s a bold, aggressive card that’s making big waves among collectors.

 

7. Team Rocket's Mewtwo Ex – Hyper Rare

A shimmering variant of the special illustration, this Hyper Rare version amplifies the dramatic design with a radiant, rainbow-like foil. It lacks the full narrative artwork of the special illustration, but makes up for it in sheer visual dazzle. With fewer in circulation and high competitive potential, this version is still pulling serious weight in collector markets.

 

8. Ethan’s Adventure – Special Illustration Rare (Supporter)

This serene and heartwarming card shows Ethan on a peaceful path, Poké Ball in hand, as he begins his journey. The painterly style and soft lighting evoke feelings of nostalgia and hope, offering a quiet moment that contrasts with the high-octane energy of other cards in the set. As a supporter card with high rarity and emotional impact, it’s a sleeper hit among fans and collectors.

 

9. Cynthia’s Garchomp Ex – Hyper Rare

For those who prefer flash over story, this Hyper Rare version of Cynthia’s Garchomp Ex delivers. With its rainbow foil and high-end finish, it’s a prized addition for collectors who want a competitive card with extra sparkle. While it may not carry the full scenic illustration, its high playability and visual appeal keep it in high demand.

 

 

10. Ethan’s Ho-Oh Ex – Hyper Rare

Rounding out the top 10 is this glistening Hyper Rare version of Ethan’s Ho-Oh Ex. The rainbow foil lends it a celestial feel, perfectly complementing Ho-Oh’s mythic presence. Its value lies not only in its rarity but also in its connection to one of the most beloved Trainer-Legendary pairings in the franchise.

 

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These cards aren’t just collectibles—they’re snapshots of Pokémon history, reimagined with modern artistry and infused with competitive potential. Whether you're hunting packs or trading online, these are the ones you’ll want to keep your eyes (and wallet) on.