The Zekrom card labeled114/114from Pokémon’s Black & White expansion has drawn interest not just for being a fullart Ultra Rare, but also for a curious misprint phenomenon involving its background color. Collectors sometimes refer to these as the Zekrom 114/114 misprint, highlighting versions with either a black or gray holographic background. What’s behind this variation, and does it really count as a misprint or simply an early print run variation?
Black vs Gray Background Variants
The card in question is the fullart Zekrom labeled 114/114 in the Black & White base set. Two background variants exist:
- Dark black backgroundbehind Zekrom artwork, with shiny foil effects.
- Light gray backgroundmatching the white style used on Reshiram’s card.
Per conversations among collectors on Reddit and fan forums, both variants are authentic print runs not counterfeit. Several users note that the black background was likely in earlier prints, while the gray background is considered by many as a later adjustment for clarity ([turn0search0]î). One forum member on PokeGym suggests the original intent was black so gray might actually be the anomaly but both versions are genuine ([turn0search1]îturn0search4î).
Is It a Real Misprint or Just Variation?
Despite the label misprint, most collectors now regard the background difference as a simple production variation, not a mistake:
- The grayback version appears to be more common.
- Collectors acknowledge both types within standard sets.
- Neither variant is known to be intentionally rare or recalled.
Some sellers and retailers advertise the gray background as a misprint variant, possibly to attract interest or suggest rarity but market data shows that gray copies are plentiful, and values remain similar across both types ([turn0search2]îturn0search8î). In other words, the term misprint is more marketing than fact.
Price and Collectibility
The Zekrom 114/114 card is popular in vintage Pokémon circles due to being a full art Ultra Rare from Black & White. Prices vary based on condition and CS status but background color alone does not significantly change values:
Typical Price Ranges
- Nearmint raw copies of either variant: roughly $40$80.
- PSA or CGC graded versions: depending on grade and background, $100 to $400+.
- Lowpop PSA 9 or 10 grayback copies occasionally reach $400+ in auctions ([turn0search2]îturn0search8îturn0search2î).
High graded blackback cards sell similarly some PSA 9s hit $415 or more. High grade graybackground cards of low population value slightly more in rarity, but both remain desirable full art collectibles [[turn0search2]îturn0search8î.
Collector and Community Insights
Discussion on Reddit and PokeGym indicates a spectrum of opinions:
- Many collectors accept both background colors as legitimate.
- Some claim gray appears more often in packs opened later in the product cycle.
- Others suggest black backgrounds reflect first print factory runs maybe using different holographic stock or production lines.
Most agree the gray background is not counterfeit. Nor was it corrected by Wizards the variety appears across authentic booster pulls ([turn0search0]îturn0search1î). One redditor shared that gray background units seemed more visible when the card’s release was new, implying factory adjustments during release phases ([turn0search0]î.
How to Identify Each Variant
If you’re trying to distinguish which version you have, key visual cues help:
- Blackback version: Deep dark foil behind Zekrom, with strong contrast; shiny foil effect.
- Grayback version: Lighter, silvery gray tone; more subtle reflection.
- Texture: Black backgrounds often feel more textured, similar to lithographic cards; gray backs are flatter ([turn0search7]î).
Feel the card and tilt it under light. If the entire background area reflects foil strongly, it may be blackback. Gray seems less holographic under reflection.
Should Collectors Care?
Deciding whether to value one version over another depends on personal preference:
- Collectors seeking uniform sets might prefer one variant to match others.
- Some builders chase perceived firstprint black backgrounds for display appeal.
- Grayback versions may appeal because they mirror Reshiram’s aesthetic from the same set.
But both versions are readily available: neither is officially labeled rare, and both appear regularly graded and raw for sale. The price comes down to card condition and grading, not background color alone.
Summary of Key Points
- Zekrom 114/114 full art from Black & White exists in two background variants: black and gray.
- Both are legitimate factory prints not counterfeit; sometimes called misprint but more accurately a print variation.
- Grayback copies tend to be more common, blackback possibly more textured and earlier run.
- Value differences are driven by condition and grade, not background color.
- Collectors enjoy both, and understanding the history helps make informed acquisition choices.
The socalledZekrom 114/114 misprintstory is a fascinating example of how simple production variations can spark collector interest. While some sellers continue to advertise grayback cards as errors, the community consensus is clear: both black and gray backgrounds are authentic, neither is prosecutable as a mistake, and neither dramatically alters market value on its own. As a collector, your focus should be on card condition and grading. If you happen to spot a textured black background in a mint PSA 9 or PSA 10, that may be a showcase piece. If you prefer the cleaner gray version to complete set visuals, that’s equally valid. Either way, Zekrom 114/114 remains a cherished card from the early era of Full Art Pokémon TCG and its background variation only adds to its lore.
: