# Card Notes: Charmeleon The 1999 Pokemon Base Set Shadowless edition represents the earliest printing of the modern trading card game, released when Pokemon was first exploding into mainstream culture. These initial printings, characterized by the absence of a shadow behind the Pokemon illustration, have become foundational to the hobby. Base Set Shadowless cards capture a pivotal moment when collecting and gameplay first converged, making them historically significant and deeply nostalgic for collectors who experienced the original phenomenon. Charmeleon holds particular appeal as the middle evolution in one of Pokemon's most iconic lines. Its artwork captures the creature mid-evolution between the beloved Charmander and the powerful Charizard, making it a natural focal point for evolution line collectors. Shadowless printings of this card remain sought after by those building comprehensive Base Set collections and vintage Pokemon enthusiasts alike.