Blue-Eyes White Dragon Collector's Guide: Printings, Value and Grading

Blue-Eyes White Dragon is the most recognizable card in Yu-Gi-Oh!: Seto Kaiba's signature monster, a Level 8 LIGHT Dragon with 3000 ATK and 2500 DEF. It's been printed many times since the TCG launched in 2002, and those printings range from bulk-priced reprints to some of the most valuable cards in the hobby. This guide explains the key printings, what drives value, and how to buy, protect and grade a Blue-Eyes.

Blue-Eyes White Dragon card facts

Type	Normal Monster (Dragon)
Attribute	LIGHT
Level	8
ATK / DEF	3000 / 2500
First TCG set	Legend of Blue Eyes White Dragon (2002)

As a Normal Monster with no effect, Blue-Eyes is supported by a whole archetype of cards that search for it, summon it and power it up.

The original printings

Legend of Blue Eyes White Dragon (LOB)

The first North American booster set gave the card its first TCG printing, as an Ultra Rare at LOB-001. Early North American prints didn't include a language code, so the code is LOB-001 rather than LOB-EN001. Early European English printings used LOB-E001. The 1st Edition LOB-001 is the headline Blue-Eyes for vintage collectors, especially in high grades.

Starter Deck Kaiba (SDK)

Released around the same time, Starter Deck Kaiba included Blue-Eyes as SDK-001. Because starter decks were opened and played by kids, clean early SDK copies are also sought after.

Learn how to read these codes and editions in our 1st Edition vs. Unlimited guide.

Reprints and modern printings

Since 2002, Blue-Eyes has been reprinted in starter decks, Structure Decks, tins, Legendary Collections, anniversary products and special sets, often in premium rarities. That's good news for both players and collectors:

• Players can find affordable copies to play.
• Collectors can chase specific premium versions, such as Quarter Century Secret Rare, Starlight or Ultimate Rare printings, or alternate artwork.

The Blue-Eyes family keeps growing too. Recent special products have included new takes on the dragon, such as Blue-Eyes White Dragon, the White Phantom Beast and Blue-Eyes Toon Dragon in Magnificent Maestros. See our Magnificent Maestros set guide.

What drives a Blue-Eyes's value?

1. Printing: LOB and SDK originals sit at the top. Specific premium modern rarities follow.
2. Edition: 1st Edition copies of early printings are generally scarcer.
3. Condition: decades-old copies in Near Mint are rare. Edge whitening and surface scratches are common on vintage cards. See our card condition guide.
4. Grade: for vintage copies, the gap between grades can be large.
5. Authenticity: Blue-Eyes is one of the most counterfeited cards in the game.

Prices change with demand. Buy the version you want to own rather than speculating.

Watch out for fake Blue-Eyes

Because it's iconic and valuable, Blue-Eyes is a favourite of counterfeiters. Check the set code, font, card back, hologram and foil against a known genuine copy, and be wary of vintage copies priced well below market. Our guide on how to spot fake Yu-Gi-Oh! cards walks through every check.

Should you grade your Blue-Eyes?

If you own an original LOB or SDK copy in strong condition, or a premium modern version, grading authenticates it, records its condition and protects it. See our Yu-Gi-Oh! grading guide. If you'd rather buy one already graded, browse our PSA and TAG collections.

Playing Blue-Eyes today

Blue-Eyes remains a playable archetype, with support cards that search, summon and fuse Blue-Eyes into powerful Extra Deck dragons. Players usually use affordable printings in their deck and keep their collectible copies safe. Our deck building guide can help you build around it.

Frequently asked questions

What is the original Blue-Eyes White Dragon card number?

LOB-001 in the North American Legend of Blue Eyes White Dragon set, and SDK-001 in Starter Deck Kaiba.

How do I know if my Blue-Eyes is 1st Edition?

Look for "1st Edition" printed below the artwork on the left side.

How much ATK does Blue-Eyes White Dragon have?

3000 ATK and 2500 DEF.

Is Blue-Eyes White Dragon still printed?

Yes. It's been reprinted many times, including in premium rarities and special products.

Are Blue-Eyes cards counterfeited?

Yes, frequently. Always check the set code, foil, font and card back, and buy from sellers who guarantee authenticity.

Shop Blue-Eyes

Find Blue-Eyes White Dragon printings and support cards in our Yu-Gi-Oh! singles. Every card is 100% authentic and shipped across Canada.