Clefairy Base Set: The Original Metronome

A Surprising Holo Rare

For many modern collectors, it can be surprising to learn that Clefairy was one of the sixteen holographic rare cards in the original Pokemon Base Set. In an era before Fairy-type existed, this small Normal-type Pokemon (card #5/102) held holographic status alongside powerhouses like Charizard, Blastoise, and Mewtwo. But Clefairy had earned its place — in early Pokemon lore, Clefairy was originally planned to be the franchise mascot before Pikachu took over. For collectors in Sacramento, San Francisco, and across the country who opened packs in 1999, pulling a holo Clefairy evoked mixed feelings — excitement at finding a holo, but perhaps a twinge of disappointment that it wasn't Charizard.

Today, that perspective has shifted. Clefairy is an appreciated part of the Base Set holographic lineup, and its unique gameplay mechanic makes it a genuinely interesting card.

Metronome: The Wildcard Attack

Clefairy's signature attack, Metronome, was one of the most creative and unpredictable moves in the early TCG:

• Copy Any Attack: Metronome allowed Clefairy to use any attack belonging to the defending Pokemon
• No Energy Requirement: The copied attack was performed regardless of its normal energy cost (beyond Metronome's own cost of three Colorless energy)
• Coin Flip: Required a successful coin flip to work, adding an element of luck
• Versatile: The attack's effectiveness depended entirely on what your opponent was using
• Pound: A backup 20-damage attack for one Colorless energy

Using Metronome to copy an opponent's most powerful attack — like Charizard's Fire Spin — with a tiny 40 HP Clefairy was both hilarious and surprisingly effective. Players in the Bay Area, Modesto, and Roseville loved the chaotic energy Clefairy brought to casual games.

The Almost-Mascot

Clefairy's holographic status in the Base Set reflects its early importance in the Pokemon franchise. In the original Pokemon manga, Clefairy (not Pikachu) was the main character's partner Pokemon. Early design documents suggest Clefairy was a serious contender for the franchise mascot role. While Pikachu ultimately won that honor, Clefairy retained enough prominence to earn a holographic spot in the TCG's debut set.

This piece of franchise history gives Base Set Clefairy an additional layer of significance for collectors in San Jose, Stockton, and Oakland who appreciate the deeper lore behind the cards.

Market Value

Base Set Clefairy is among the most affordable holos in the original set, making it an accessible entry point for collectors building a complete Base Set holo collection. Unlimited copies in good condition sell for $5 to $15, while near-mint copies bring $20 to $50. PSA 9 unlimited copies typically sell for $40 to $100, and PSA 10 copies can reach $300 to $600. 1st Edition copies carry a moderate premium.

Don't overlook the value of your more affordable Base Set holos — they still contribute meaningful dollars when sold as part of a collection. Get a quote from PokemonBuySell.com on your entire collection, and we'll ensure you get fair value for every card.

Clefairy's Collector Appeal

Base Set Clefairy represents the breadth and charm of the original Pokemon TCG. Not every holo needed to be a legendary powerhouse — some, like Clefairy, brought personality, creativity, and fun to the game. For collectors in Elk Grove, Folsom, and throughout Northern California, Clefairy is a delightful piece of the Base Set puzzle. Browse the complete Base Set lineup and explore all sixteen original holos on PokemonBuySell.com.