Last Updated: July 2026
Team Rocket’s Meowth is one of the most beloved Japanese Pokémon promo cards from the vintage era. Released as a bonus card with the 1999 CD Meowth’s Party (ニャースのパーティ), it faithfully depicts the iconic talking Meowth from the Pokémon anime rather than the version found in the games.
Unlike standard Meowth cards, this promotional release features the official name “Team Rocket’s Meowth” and even includes exclusive flavor text stating that it cannot evolve into Persian. Combined with its unique distribution method and memorable artwork, it has become one of the most collectible Japanese promo cards among anime fans.
📌 Quick Facts
| Japanese Name | ロケット団のニャース |
| English Name | Team Rocket’s Meowth |
| Release Date | October 27, 1999 |
| Distribution | Meowth’s Party CD Bonus Promo |
| Card Type | Japanese Promo |
| Illustrator | Kunihiko Yuyama |
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Card Overview
Team Rocket’s Meowth was included exclusively with the Japanese music CD Meowth’s Party, released in late 1999. Because it was never available in booster packs, sealed copies have become increasingly difficult to obtain.
The card is especially notable because it represents the anime version of Meowth—the intelligent, talking companion of Jessie and James—instead of the ordinary species from the Pokémon games. Even the card name reflects this distinction, making it one of the few vintage cards based directly on the television series.
A Unique Anime-Inspired Card
One of the most charming features of the Japanese version is the special line printed beneath the card name:
“It won’t evolve into Persian!”
This playful text references the anime storyline in which Team Rocket’s Meowth never evolves. It is an extremely unusual design choice for a Pokémon card and helps distinguish this promo from virtually every other Meowth card released during the vintage era.
The artwork was illustrated by Kunihiko Yuyama, the longtime director of the Pokémon anime. The background is filled with silhouettes of numerous Pokémon, giving the illustration a lively and nostalgic atmosphere that collectors continue to appreciate today.
Later Reprint
The artwork was later reused in the Pokémon Web expansion. While the layout was updated to the e-Card format, the original illustration remained unchanged, making it easy for collectors to recognize across both releases.
English Release
An English version was also released as Wizards Black Star Promo #18 in 2000. It was distributed through Pokémon League events and was additionally available at the Millennium Dome Pokémon Exhibition in the United Kingdom.
Although both versions feature the same artwork, their distribution methods differ significantly, making each version desirable to different groups of collectors.
Current Market Prices
| Japanese Promo | Approximate Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Near Mint | ~$475 |
| Moderately Played | ~$230 |
| PSA 10 | ~$1,510 |
| English Black Star Promo #18 | Approximate Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Near Mint | ~$50 |
| Moderately Played | ~$30 |
| PSA 10 | ~$350 |
Where to Buy Team Rocket’s Meowth
Because Team Rocket’s Meowth was distributed with a music CD rather than in booster packs, finding high-grade copies can be more difficult than many collectors expect. Before purchasing, always compare recent sales and check photos carefully.
Buying from Japan
Many of the best-condition vintage Japanese Pokémon cards remain in Japan. Services such as Mercari Japan often offer a wider selection than international marketplaces, although buyers outside Japan typically need a proxy shopping service to complete purchases.
Collector’s Notes
Team Rocket’s Meowth occupies a unique place in Pokémon TCG history. Rather than depicting an ordinary Meowth, it celebrates the unforgettable anime character who traveled alongside Jessie and James throughout the original series.
The exclusive Japanese text “It won’t evolve into Persian!” has never appeared on the English version and remains one of the card’s most distinctive features. This small detail makes the Japanese promo especially desirable among collectors who appreciate anime-related cards.
Collectors also enjoy pairing this card with Here Comes Team Rocket!, Dark Pokémon, and other Team Rocket-themed releases from the same era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Team Rocket’s Meowth a promo card?
Yes. The Japanese version was distributed exclusively with the 1999 Meowth’s Party music CD.
Does an English version exist?
Yes. It was released as Wizards Black Star Promo #18 through Pokémon League events and other special promotions.
Why doesn’t it evolve into Persian?
The Japanese card intentionally references the anime version of Meowth, which famously never evolves. This is why the card includes the unique printed note beneath its name.
Was this card reprinted?
Yes. The artwork later appeared in the Pokémon Web expansion using the e-Card layout.
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