Blue-Eyes White Dragon (SKE-001)

Collectible Trading Card, Mass-produced Print on CardstockKazuki Takahashi (Original Illustrator), Konami (Publisher)

Blue-Eyes White Dragon (SKE-001)

Style & Movement

Anime/Manga Art Style, early 2000s Pop Culture Illustration

Medium & Technique

Offset lithography with matte finish and holographic security foil stamp

Creation Period

2004 (English Release)

Dimensions & Format

Approximately 59 x 86 mm; Portrait orientation

Subject Description

A mythical silver-blue dragon in a dynamic, aggressive pose set against a cosmic purple and red background. Iconography includes the Level 8 rank stars and 'LIGHT' attribute symbol.

Condition & Value Assessment

Condition Assessment

Good to Very Good; visible silvering on edges and minor surface scratches

Estimated Market Value

$5.00 - $15.00 USD (Ungraded)

Auction Estimate

$10.00 - $30.00 USD (Variable based on professional grading)

Provenance History

Standard retail distribution; likely part of the 'Starter Deck: Kaiba Evolution' released in March 2004

Art Historical Significance

Iconic cornerstone of the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise; represents the transition of Japanese manga aesthetics into global competitive gaming culture.

Notable Features

SKE-001 set code; unique artwork variation specific to the Evolution Starter Deck series; 1st Edition or Unlimited status (looks Unlimited).

Condition Issues

Edge wear ('whitening') on the borders; light surface scuffing; possible micro-creasing at corners from play use.

Conservation Recommendations

Keep in acid-free PVC-free poly sleeves and a rigid top-loader; store in a temperature-controlled environment away from UV light.

Identified on 4/19/2026