Jirachi ex Card Surges After the Death of Avery The Poke Kid: Between Grief and Market Speculation

The price of the Jirachi ex Special Illustration Rare card from the Pokémon 30th Anniversary set has nearly doubled within days of the death of Avery The Poke Kid, a 12-year-old Pokémon influencer who died on 18 September after battling cancer. The increase surprised the collectible card market, which usually sees prices fall after a new set is released.

According to data from card trading platforms such as TCGPlayer and eBay, the average price of the Jirachi ex #155 card illustrated by Akira Egawa jumped from $81 on 17 September to around $118 on 23 September—a rise of about 45%. Some cards even sold for between $140 and $198, depending on condition and centering. The phenomenon is unusual because chase card prices typically drop after a set is released, not rise.

The main trigger for the surge was an emotional video recorded by Avery's parents before he died. In the video, Avery opens his last Pokémon pack and finds the Jirachi ex card. Jirachi, the legendary Pokémon from the Ruby and Sapphire generation, is known as a granter of wishes who awakens only once every thousand years to fulfill three dreams. This symbolism is seen as fitting for Avery, who was known for being optimistic and generous.

Avery's story touched many people, including the card's illustrator, Akira Egawa, who responded warmly. This strengthened the emotional bond between the community and the card. Many fans said they bought the Jirachi ex card as a tribute to Avery, even calling it "Avery's Jirachi".

However, the price surge also had a negative side. An eBay user tried to sell a Jirachi ex card for $20,000, exploiting Avery's name for profit. The listing was later removed. The incident shows how the secondary market can exploit a moment of grief for personal gain.

"Avery had a rare generosity," reads a quote from his obituary. "He gave cards and gifts to other children, brought happiness into hospital rooms, and used his own journey to bring hope to families going through difficult times. He never wanted others to feel sorry for him. He wanted the world to share in his joy."

For the collectible card market in Indonesia, this phenomenon could reflect how emotional factors and personal narratives can move prices. Indonesia's large Pokémon community could also be affected, especially in terms of demand for special edition cards. However, unethical speculation practices, such as what happened on eBay, should also be watched out for.

Going forward, the question is whether this price surge will last or is only temporary. If demand continues to be driven by emotional factors, prices may stay high. But if the market returns to rationality, prices could correct. What is clear is that Avery's story has left a deep mark on the hearts of the Pokémon community, far beyond the value of the card itself.