Set Overview
Diamond & Pearl was the base set of the Diamond & Pearl era, released in May 2007. It launched the fourth generation and the Sinnoh region into the Pokémon TCG, and introduced Pokémon Lv.X — a new ultra-rare card type. Its three Lv.X are the Sinnoh starter final evolutions: Empoleon, Infernape and Torterra.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | May 23, 2007 (English) |
| Publisher | Nintendo / The Pokémon Company |
| Total Cards | 130 cards |
| Pokémon Lv.X | Empoleon, Infernape & Torterra (120–122) |
| Notable Feature | First set to introduce Pokémon Lv.X |
| Key Chase Card | The three starter Lv.X (120–122) |
About the Set
Diamond & Pearl opened a new era for the Pokémon TCG, moving from the EX Series to the Sinnoh-region fourth generation. Its headline addition is Pokémon Lv.X: a card you play on top of a Pokémon already in play to give it extra HP and a new Poke-Power or attack. The set’s three Lv.X are the starter final evolutions — Empoleon Lv.X, Infernape Lv.X and Torterra Lv.X.
How to identify it: numbered cards read N/130. Pokémon Lv.X cards (120–122) carry the “LV.X” label and a metallic border, and are stacked onto a Pokémon already in play rather than evolved normally.
Pokémon Lv.X
Diamond & Pearl had a single print run. Its defining feature is the debut of Pokémon Lv.X, the era’s new ultra-rare card type.
| Type | What it means |
|---|---|
| Main set (1–119) | The commons, uncommons, rares and holo rares that make up the bulk of the set. |
| Pokémon Lv.X (120–122) | Empoleon, Infernape and Torterra Lv.X — the ultra-rare chase cards, stacked onto a Pokémon already in play. |
| Basic Energy (123–130) | The eight basic Energy types, included in the set numbering. |
Note: the gallery below covers all 130 cards. The three Pokémon Lv.X read 120/130 to 122/130.
Complete Card Gallery
All 130 cards from Diamond & Pearl, including the three starter Pokémon Lv.X. Click any card to view it full size — use the arrow keys (or swipe) to move through the set.
Key Cards
The three starter Pokémon Lv.X are the set’s chase cards.
| Card | Name | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
 |
Infernape Lv.X 121/130 Pokémon Lv.X | The Fire starter Lv.X and one of the set’s marquee chase cards. |
 |
Torterra Lv.X 122/130 Pokémon Lv.X | The Grass starter Lv.X, closing the Lv.X trio at 122/130. |
 |
Empoleon Lv.X 120/130 Pokémon Lv.X | The Water starter Lv.X, opening the Lv.X run at 120/130. |
Promo Cards
The DP Black Star Promos launched alongside the Diamond & Pearl era, opening with the three Sinnoh starters — Turtwig, Chimchar and Piplup.
DP Black Star Promos use their own numbering (DP01 onward) and carry a black star where a set symbol would be.
Collecting & Where to Buy
Diamond & Pearl is out of print and trades on the secondary market. Common singles are inexpensive, while the three starter Pokémon Lv.X carry the strongest premiums, especially in high grade.
Collector tip: the three Pokémon Lv.X (120–122) are the prize — check the metallic border for wear, and confirm you are looking at the Lv.X and not the regular holo of the same Pokémon.
Note: external links are provided for reference only. Always confirm a card's printing, condition and authenticity before purchasing.