In a surprising turn of events, a rare Pokémon-shaped Cheeto known as “Cheetozard” recently fetched a staggering $87,840 at auction. The Flamin’ Hot snack, which bears a striking resemblance to the fire-breathing Pokémon Charizard, was sold through Goldin, a renowned online auction house specializing in collectibles, trading cards, and memorabilia. This peculiar creation, measuring a mere three inches in length, was cleverly mounted on a custom Pokémon card and encased in a transparent card storage box.
The bidding war for this unique item kicked off on February 10 at 8:10 PM with an opening bid of $250. Over the course of nearly a month, enthusiastic bidders from around the globe engaged in a spirited competition, resulting in a winning bid of $72,000 on March 2 at 1:42 AM. The final price of $87,840 includes a 22% “buyer’s premium” fee imposed by the auction house, Goldin.
While the identity of the fortunate buyer remains undisclosed, Goldin’s Head of Consignment, Dave Amerman, shed light on the fascination surrounding the Cheetozard. He remarked, “Goldin specializes in rare and one-of-a-kind collectibles, and the Cheetozard is exactly this. Part of what makes this item so fun and unique is that it bridges two fandoms — Pokémon and Cheetos.”
Following the sale, Goldin took to Instagram in partnership with eBay to announce the exciting news. Unsurprisingly, the online community erupted with a flurry of reactions and commentary, reflecting a mix of awe, humor, and incredulity. From comparisons to Maurizio Cattelan’s banana duct-taped artwork to playful references to beloved Pokémon characters, the internet was abuzz with chatter surrounding the remarkable Cheetozard auction.
Notably, the journey of the Cheetozard began between 2018 and 2022 when 1st & Goal Collectibles stumbled upon and preserved the distinctive snack. After lying dormant in a secure location for several years, the Cheeto resurfaced in April 2024, garnering widespread attention and sparking a viral sensation on social media. In a testament to its popularity, a dedicated cryptocurrency, the Cheetozard meme coin, emerged as a tribute to this iconic snack.
Moreover, the phenomenon of uniquely-shaped Cheetos has spawned a burgeoning market of its own, with offerings resembling celebrities, fictional characters, and brand logos commanding hefty prices on online platforms. While some quirky Cheeto creations are still up for grabs, such as those modeled after Arnold Schwarzenegger, Godzilla, and the Nike swoosh, the $87,000 Cheetozard sale is hailed as a bargain compared to past Cheeto auctions.
In a world where unexpected treasures can emerge from the most ordinary of places, the tale of the Cheetozard serves as a delightful reminder of the whimsical intersections of pop culture and everyday life. As enthusiasts and collectors continue to seek out extraordinary finds, the allure of a Pokémon-shaped snack transcends mere novelty, embodying a blend of nostalgia, humor, and sheer wonder. Whether destined for a fan’s prized collection or as a centerpiece of culinary curiosity, the legendary Cheetozard has secured its place in the annals of unusual auction triumphs.
As the legacy of the Cheetozard lives on in the hearts of fans and connoisseurs alike, its tale stands as a testament to the enduring power of imagination, creativity, and the thrill of unexpected discoveries. In a world brimming with surprises and hidden treasures, the journey of a humble Flamin’ Hot Cheeto has captured the hearts and minds of a global audience, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of collectibles and curiosities.