To put this sale, and the Charizard 1st Edition PSA 10, into perspective: with 124 PSA 10 slabs in existence, each valued at $550,000, their combined market value totals $68.2 million
This blue creature card went for $4.70 on May 21, but now copies are selling for $9.80, a rise of 109%
Unfortunately, it seems like Wizards of the Coast dramatically underestimated how powerful the Companion ability would be, and the entire mechanic had to be nerfed after the cards featuring it were released
It's understandable - MINT 9 might be the best grading we've ever seen this promo get
Collector tip: When buying tournament promos, check for certificate of authenticity (if applicable) and confirm distribution number (some promos may have very few copies)
Pokemon TCG (almost always)