What Is the Most Expensive Single Magic Card?
Magic: The Gathering (MTG) has come a long way since its inception in 1993. From humble beginnings as a minor trading card game to a global sensation with a thriving competitive scene and millions of players worldwide, MTG has seen enormous growth and evolution. One aspect of the game that has remained unchanged throughout its history is the allure of rarity, with certain cards commanding incredible valuations due to their rarity. In this article, we will delve into what makes a Magic card so precious and explore the most expensive single card, ever sold.
Why Certain Cards are More Valuable Than Others
In the game of Magic, cards are categorized based on rarity, with common, uncommon, and rare cards making up the bulk of available cards. Mythic rare (M) cards, like Black Lotus, are one-of-a-kind, making them exceptional and highly sought after by players and collectors alike. These unique aspects contribute to their extraordinary value:
| Rarity | Average Value | Why So Pricey? |
|---|---|---|
| Mythic Rare | $100-$2,000 | Unlimited supply, unique design |
| Black Lotus | $150-$2,500 | Unique creation, limited supply, iconic |
| Modern Masters | $60-$1,000 | Foil, limited supply, desirable artists |
The Most Expensive Single Card?
In Eight Days, an Artifact Proof of the Black Lotus from the Limited Edition Beta set stunned the MTG community by flogging for $615,000 at an auction, becoming the costliest Magic card ever sold, surpassing the previous record-setter, the Original Painting of the Black Lotus, sold privately for $414,915.
Is there a way to compare Cards?
Value charts and price guides for new and vintage cards can give owners an idea of their card’s potential sale price. However, flights of fancy are where the real action begins when it comes to rare or single cards. The auction mentioned above, for instance, shattered past records, making pricing a highly subjective task
Other Notable Auction Items
Not satisfied with just one record? More magic happens when we venture away from the Black Lotus! From the 1996 World Champ to the Menthor, some cards sell higher than others, but that ‘s the magic. Consider the following:
| Card Name | Year | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1953 Mickey Mantle Topps Card | 1952 (reprint) | Sports iconic | $12,000 (reprint) |
| Ancient Ruins | 2016 | Mythic rare lands combo | $80-$1000</b] |
| Mox Pearl: | 1993 (new) | Uncommon foiler | $20-$b10 |
The Verdict (or the Auction): No Limit
Card values can fluctuate because of supply and demand. Sometimes, a rare card’s popularity changes, affecting its value. Consider card rarity, condition, and potential (or lack thereof), impacting the price. In the case of this incredibly rare Black Lotus artifact proo