In a world where art aficionados splurge millions on abstract masterpieces, who could have predicted that a crunchy, spicy snack would set the auction world ablaze? Enter “Cheetozard,” a Flamin’ Hot Cheeto bearing an uncanny resemblance to Charizard, the iconic fire-breathing Pokémon.
This three-inch munchable marvel recently fetched an astonishing $87,840 at auction, leaving many to wonder: have we collectively lost our minds, or is this the pinnacle of pop culture convergence?
From Snack Bag to Auction Block
Discovered between 2018 and 2022 by 1st & Goal Collectibles, a Georgia-based memorabilia company, this peculiar Cheeto languished in obscurity until it resurfaced on social media in late 2024.
Its striking similarity to Charizard—a creature known for its fiery breath and formidable presence—captured the imaginations of both snack enthusiasts and Pokémon fans alike. Recognising its potential value, the Cheeto was mounted onto a custom Pokémon card and encased in a clear storage box, preserving its crunchy contours for posterity.
The Auction That Set Wallets on Fire
Goldin Auctions, renowned for handling rare collectibles, listed the Cheeto with an initial bid of $250 on February 10, 2025.
What followed was a bidding war as intense as the Cheeto’s flavor, culminating in a winning bid of $72,000. After including the buyer’s premium, the total soared to $87,840. This sale not only underscores the enduring appeal of Pokémon but also highlights the lengths to which collectors will go to own a piece of pop culture history.
A Nostalgic Nibble or a Sign of the Times?
This isn’t the first time a snack has transcended its edible purpose to become a collector’s item. In 2017, a Cheeto resembling Harambe the gorilla reportedly sold for nearly $100,000. Such sales raise eyebrows and questions about the nature of value, nostalgia, and the human penchant for finding meaning—and monetary worth—in the most unexpected places.
The “Cheetozard” phenomenon serves as proof for people’s collective desire to connect with the past, celebrate the quirky, and, perhaps, indulge in a bit of frivolity. Whether viewed as a savvy investment or a frivolous expenditure, there’s no denying that this spicy snack has left an indelible mark on the collectibles market.
