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.
Key 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. |
 |
Aggron ex 95/100 Pokémon-ex | A heavy-hitting steel-type ex and a popular secondary chase. |
 |
Aerodactyl ex 94/100 Pokémon-ex | Opens the ex run at 94/100, carrying the set’s fossil theme. |
 |
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.
Nintendo 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.