Pokemon Cards as Global Currency? Investor Explains Enduring Appeal

Peter Levin, co-founder of Griffin Gaming Partners, has suggested a provocative scenario: in the event of a global apocalypse, Pokemon cards could emerge as the primary form of currency. This assertion stems from the franchise's remarkable and sustained global popularity over the past three decades, a trend Levin detailed in a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter.

"Pokemon is a global phenomenon," Levin stated. "I'm absolutely convinced that if the world suffered an apocalypse tomorrow, the following day the global currency would be Pokemon cards." He elaborated on the franchise's impressive financial performance, noting that "Pokemon cards are beating the S&P 500 by 3,000%."

Originating in Japan, the Pokemon phenomenon gained significant traction worldwide in the late 1990s and early 2000s. After experiencing periods of peak popularity and subsequent decline, the franchise has been on a consistent growth trajectory, described by Levin as a "parabolic growth curve."

While the idea of Pokemon cards as post-apocalyptic currency may seem far-fetched, it highlights the franchise's substantial economic impact. The notes suggest that this value is recognized even outside the core fanbase, citing reports of rare Pokemon cards being used for illicit activities such as money laundering and brazen retail theft. The immense sums some collectors are willing to pay for rare cards underscore their significant market value.

However, the intrinsic value of Pokemon cards as a currency, even in Levin's hypothetical scenario, would depend on a network of buyers willing to exchange real currency for them. Without this market demand, their worth would diminish significantly, regardless of any apocalyptic circumstances.

Beyond speculative economic theories, the Pokemon franchise continues its expansion. A new stop-motion animated series is slated for release on Disney+. Additionally, events for the mobile game Pokemon Go were announced for September 2026, and the title Pokemon Pokopia received a downloadable content update earlier this summer.