Set Overview
EX Sandstorm was the second EX Series set, released in September 2003. It featured a mix of Hoenn Pokémon alongside revived fossils, including fossil Pokémon-ex such as Aerodactyl and Kabutops, and headlined with Gardevoir ex.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 18, 2003 (English) |
| Publisher | Nintendo / The Pokémon Company |
| Total Cards | 100 cards |
| Pokémon-ex | 7 Pokémon-ex (cards 94–100) |
| Notable Feature | Fossil & desert theme · reverse-holo parallels |
| Key Chase Card | Gardevoir ex 96/100 |
About the Set
EX Sandstorm built on the mechanic its predecessor introduced. Its seven Pokémon-ex span a broad mix — Aerodactyl, Aggron, Kabutops and Wailord alongside Gardevoir, Raichu and Typhlosion. Gardevoir ex is the set’s standout collector card.
How to identify it: EX Sandstorm cards read N/100 and carry the “ex” set symbol. Pokémon-ex have the silver holo border and the “ex” suffix. Like the rest of the EX Series it was a single Unlimited run with no 1st Edition stamp.
Pokémon-ex & Reverse Holo
As with the whole EX Series, EX Sandstorm had a single Unlimited print run. The variants that matter are the Pokémon-ex and the reverse-holo parallels.
| Type | What it means |
|---|---|
| Pokémon-ex (94–100) | The seven silver-bordered ex cards — the set’s ultra rares, worth two prizes when knocked out. |
| Holo rares | Traditional holo cards with the foil in the artwork window. |
| Reverse holo | Parallel foil versions of commons, uncommons and rares, with the shimmer across the whole card body. |
Quick check: a silver holo border and an “ex” after the name marks a Pokémon-ex; there is no 1st Edition variant in this era.
Complete Card Gallery
All 100 cards from EX Sandstorm, including the seven Pokémon-ex. Click any card to view it full size — use the arrow keys (or swipe) to move through the set.
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100exKey Cards
The seven Pokémon-ex lead the set, with Gardevoir ex the standout chase card.
| Card | Name | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
 |
Gardevoir ex 96/100 Pokémon-ex | The set’s marquee card and one of its most sought-after Pokémon-ex. |
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Aggron ex 95/100 Pokémon-ex | A heavy-hitting steel-type ex and a popular secondary chase. |
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Aerodactyl ex 94/100 Pokémon-ex | Opens the ex run at 94/100, carrying the set’s fossil theme. |
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Wailord ex 100/100 Pokémon-ex | Closes the set at 100/100 as the last of the seven Pokémon-ex, with a notably high HP total. |
Promo Cards
The Nintendo Black Star Promo line ran throughout the EX Series. These entries featured Hoenn Pokémon and the legendary duo Latias and Latios.
#12Promo
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#15PromoNintendo Black Star Promos use their own numbering (#1 onward) and carry a black star where a set symbol would be.
Collecting & Where to Buy
EX Sandstorm is out of print and trades on the secondary market. Most singles are inexpensive, but the seven Pokémon-ex — Gardevoir ex especially — hold solid value, and high-grade ex cards command a clear premium.
Collector tip: the Pokémon-ex are where the value sits — inspect the silver border and holo for scratches, since the finish shows wear easily.
Note: external links are provided for reference only. Always confirm a card's printing, condition and authenticity before purchasing.