Last Updated: July 2026
Hamachan’s Slowking is one of the most unusual Japanese promotional Pokémon cards ever released. Rather than featuring standard Pokémon artwork, this unique promo was created in collaboration with Japanese comedian Masatoshi Hamada, making it one of the few celebrity-themed Pokémon cards from the original era.
Originally distributed as a bonus card with CoroCoro Comic’s September 1999 issue, Hamachan’s Slowking has become a favorite among collectors looking for rare and uniquely Japanese Pokémon promotions.
📌 Key Facts
| Release | CoroCoro Comic September 1999 |
| Card No. | Japanese Promotional Card |
| Card Type | Stage 1 Pokémon |
| Estimated PSA 10 Value | Approximately $2,400 |
| Availability | CoroCoro Comic Bonus Promo |
| Language | Japanese Exclusive |
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History
Hamachan’s Slowking was released as a promotional card included with the September 1999 issue of CoroCoro Comic, Japan’s famous manga magazine that played a major role in the early success of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.
The card celebrates the release of Pokémon the Movie 2000 (The Power of One), in which Japanese comedian Masatoshi Hamada, one half of the legendary comedy duo Downtown, provided the Japanese voice for Slowking.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this card is its illustration. According to the original promotion, the artwork was drawn by Hamada himself, giving the card a playful style unlike any other Pokémon card released during the vintage era.
Although it was originally distributed as a magazine insert, collectors often removed the card from its attached sheet. Because of this, well-preserved copies are becoming increasingly difficult to locate, especially in Gem Mint condition.
Price Guide
The prices below are approximate market values based on recent Japanese sales and international collector demand. Because Hamachan’s Slowking was distributed as a magazine bonus card, values vary depending on condition, grading, and whether the original unpeeled insert has been preserved.
| Condition | Estimated Market Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Near Mint (NM) | Approximately $65 |
| Moderately Played (MP) | Approximately $35 |
| PSA 10 | Approximately $2,400 |
Where to Buy Hamachan’s Slowking
Hamachan’s Slowking is not as widely available as many standard Japanese promotional cards. While raw copies occasionally appear on Japanese marketplaces, PSA-graded examples are considerably less common and are typically sold through international auction sites.
Mercari Japan is one of the best places to search for Hamachan’s Slowking. Since most surviving copies remain in Japan, collectors can often find raw cards there before they appear on international marketplaces.
International buyers frequently use proxy shopping services to purchase directly from Mercari Japan, making rare Japanese-exclusive promotional cards much more accessible.
Collector’s Notes
Hamachan’s Slowking occupies a unique place in Pokémon card history because it combines Pokémon with one of Japan’s most famous television personalities. Very few Pokémon cards feature a real celebrity, making this promo especially interesting to collectors of unusual Japanese releases.
The card’s quirky artwork also sets it apart from traditional Pokémon illustrations. Because it was promoted as being drawn by Masatoshi Hamada himself, it has become one of the most recognizable novelty cards from the vintage era.
Collectors also seek unpeeled magazine inserts, as these are considerably more difficult to find than loose cards. Complete inserts have become increasingly desirable as fewer sealed examples remain in circulation.
International collectors sometimes search for this card using terms such as “Hamachan Slowking”, “Hamada Slowking”, or “CoroCoro Slowking Promo”, making these useful alternative names when researching the card.
Investment Potential
Hamachan’s Slowking has become one of the most distinctive Japanese promotional Pokémon cards from the vintage era. While it was originally distributed as a magazine bonus, its unusual background, celebrity connection, and growing international recognition have helped increase collector demand in recent years.
Several factors continue to support its long-term appeal:
- Exclusive bonus card from the September 1999 issue of CoroCoro Comic.
- Illustrated by Japanese comedian Masatoshi Hamada, who also voiced Slowking in Pokémon the Movie 2000.
- One of the very few official Pokémon cards featuring a real-life celebrity collaboration.
- Glossy magazine insert, making high-grade copies increasingly difficult to obtain.
- Growing worldwide interest in unusual Japanese-exclusive promotional cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How was Hamachan’s Slowking distributed?
Hamachan’s Slowking was included as a bonus card with the September 1999 issue of CoroCoro Comic. It was never sold separately or included in booster packs.
Who is Hama-chan?
Hama-chan is the nickname of Japanese comedian Masatoshi Hamada, one half of the famous comedy duo Downtown. He voiced Slowking in the Japanese version of Pokémon the Movie 2000 and also illustrated this promotional card.
Does an English version exist?
No. Hamachan’s Slowking has never been officially released outside Japan, making it a true Japanese-exclusive promotional card.
Why is Hamachan’s Slowking popular among collectors?
Collectors appreciate its unusual artwork, celebrity collaboration, and unique place in Pokémon history. It is widely regarded as one of the most distinctive Japanese promotional cards ever produced.
Related Guides
- CoroCoro Mew Price Guide
- Trainer’s Porygon Price Guide
- Shining Mew Price Guide
- Top 20 Most Valuable Vintage Japanese Pokémon Cards
Final Thoughts
Hamachan’s Slowking is unlike any other Pokémon card from the original era. Combining a CoroCoro Comic promotion, a collaboration with one of Japan’s most famous comedians, and artwork drawn by the voice actor himself, it represents a fascinating chapter in Pokémon history.
Today, its unique origin, Japanese exclusivity, and increasing collector recognition make Hamachan’s Slowking an excellent addition to any serious collection of vintage Japanese promotional Pokémon cards.