Mew is one of the most mysterious and beloved Pokemon ever created. Known as the New Species Pokemon, Mew is said to contain the genetic code of every Pokemon, and it was famously hidden in the original games as a secret. In the trading card game, Pokemon Mew cards range from rare vintage promos to stunning modern full arts, which makes Mew a wonderful Pokemon to collect.
This guide covers the Pokemon Mew story, its most famous cards and how to build a Mew collection you will love.
Who Is Pokemon Mew?
Mew is a Psychic type Mythical Pokemon from the Kanto region and number 0151 in the National Pokedex. In the original Red and Blue games, Mew was not available through normal play, which turned it into a playground legend. It was distributed at special events instead, adding to its mystique.
Mew is also linked to Mewtwo, which was created from Mew’s genetic material. That connection has inspired many cards that pair the two.
Why Collectors Love Pokemon Mew Cards
Mew is small, playful and pink, with a curious expression that artists love to draw. Its Mythical status gives it an air of rarity, and its place as number 151 makes it the final card in many Kanto binders. Collectors also love Mew because of its history with promotional events, which produced many unique cards.
8 Famous Pokemon Mew Cards
1. Ancient Mew promo
A famous promo given away with the first Pokemon movie, featuring ancient-style text. It is one of the most recognisable vintage Mew cards.
2. Wizards of the Coast Black Star promos
Early English promos included Mew, often distributed through events and magazines.
3. Mew from Southern Islands
A beautiful vintage set featuring tropical artwork, including Mew.
4. Gold Star Mew
The EX era Gold Star cards featured shiny Pokemon, and Gold Star Mew is a prized vintage card.
5. Mew VMAX alternate art (Fusion Strike)
A dramatic Sword and Shield alternate art that became one of the era’s most popular cards.
6. Mew ex full art (151)
The 151 set gave Mew ex a full-art Ultra Rare version, a favourite with modern collectors.
7. Gold Mew ex (151, 205/165)
The shiny gold Hyper Rare that closes the 151 set.
8. Celebrations and anniversary cards
Anniversary sets often revisit classic Mew cards, giving new collectors a chance to own famous artwork.
Pokemon Mew in the 151 Set
The 151 set is one of the best places to collect modern Mew cards. As Pokedex number 151, Mew closes the main set, and its full-art and gold Hyper Rare versions are major chases. Our 151 booster packs give you a chance at them, and our 151 Pokemon set guide explains the full set.
How to Build a Pokemon Mew Collection
- Start with one modern Mew card you love.
- Add a vintage Mew if your budget allows.
- Pair Mew and Mewtwo cards on the same binder page.
- Collect Mew across eras: promos, Gold Star, VMAX and ex.
- Upgrade cards over time to better condition or rarer versions.
A 9-pocket binder is perfect for an era-by-era Mew page, while a 4-pocket portfolio gives special cards more room.
Are Pokemon Mew Cards Valuable?
Mew is consistently popular, so its rare cards hold strong demand. Vintage promos in top condition, Gold Star Mew and modern alternate arts are among the most valuable. Many modern regular Mew cards are affordable, which makes Mew an easy Pokemon to start collecting.
Tips for buying Mew cards
- Check recent sold prices for the exact version
- Inspect vintage promos for wear and scratches
- Verify graded cards on the grading company’s website
- Buy from trusted sellers, because popular Pokemon attract fakes
Pokemon Mew in the Trading Card Game
Mew cards often have flexible abilities that fit Mew’s reputation as a Pokemon that can learn anything. Some versions copy attacks, draw cards or support other Pokemon, which makes Mew a useful card in many decks. Check the current Standard format before building for tournaments.
Pokemon Mew Through the Eras
Every era has given Mew a fresh look:
- Wizards of the Coast era: promos, Southern Islands and Neo era cards
- EX era: Mew ex and the Gold Star Mew
- Diamond and Pearl era: new Mew cards and promos
- Black and White to Sun and Moon: Mew-EX and Mew-GX
- Sword and Shield: Mew V and Mew VMAX, including alternate arts
- Scarlet and Violet: Mew ex in the 151 set
- Mega Evolution era: Mew continues to appear in new sets and promos
Collecting one Pokemon Mew card from each era makes a beautiful binder page and shows how card design has changed over the years.
Mew and Mewtwo
Collecting Mew and Mewtwo together is a classic goal. Many sets feature both, and some cards show them together in one artwork. Our guide to Mewtwo Pokemon cards covers the Genetic Pokemon in detail.
Pokemon Mew in the Games and Movies
Mew’s role in the first Pokemon movie, alongside Mewtwo, introduced it to millions of fans. In the games, it has been distributed through events and special offers many times. Each distribution has inspired new merchandise and cards, keeping Mew in the spotlight for more than 25 years.
Mew for younger fans
Mew’s cute design makes it a favourite with kids. A Mew card in a sleeve, a few booster packs and a small binder make a lovely gift for a young Mew fan.
Mew in themed collections
Mew fits beautifully into Psychic-type binders, Mythical Pokemon collections and Kanto Pokedex projects. As the 151st Pokemon, it is the perfect final card for an original Kanto binder.
Protecting Your Pokemon Mew Cards
Pink and gold cards show scratches easily, so sleeve them straight away. Use toploaders or magnetic holders for valuable cards, and keep displays out of direct sunlight. Our premium sleeves are a simple way to keep your Mew cards looking new.
Pokemon Mew FAQ
What type is Mew?
Mew is a Psychic type Mythical Pokemon.
What number is Mew in the Pokedex?
Number 0151.
What is the most famous Mew card?
The Ancient Mew movie promo and the Mew VMAX alternate art are two of the best known.
Where can I see every Mew card?
The official Pokemon card database lists every Mew card ever printed.
Pokemon Mew cards capture the mystery and magic of the Mythical Pokemon. Start with a favourite, pair it with Mewtwo and enjoy building a collection with a legendary story.
