10 Rare Magic The Gathering Cards Sold For Big Money

Rare Magic the Gathering Cards, Best MTG Cards, and the TOP 10 Rarest Magic The Gathering Cards

Background: Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Magic: The Gathering (MTG) remains strong in the 21st century despite the digital tech wave. Created by Richard Garfield in the early 90s, MTG boasts about 20 million players worldwide. Wizards of the Coast (WotC) has released some incredibly rare cards over the years.

Personal Experience: The author, Matt Johnson, started playing MTG around 1995 and continued for a decade. He recalls the unique allure of the cards and how each new set brought added complexity. Despite not playing as regularly after moving states, Johnson’s interest in the collectability of MTG cards never waned.

The game is constantly evolving

MTG changed a lot over 25 years. So much so, that if you played the game in the 90s, but since stopped playing, you probably wouldn’t recognize many game elements today. As for myself, I regularly check in on the game, and I’m always interested in the newly introduced mechanics, evolving play styles, and new deck builds.

Ok, I know what you’re thinking—enough already! Don’t worry; I’ll spare you the pain of listening to the mundane details of my trip down memory lane with MTG any further. Also, I think it necessary to mention this won’t be another “Power 9” list!

So, What Are The Rarest And Most Coveted MTG Trading Cards Ever Printed?

Let’s get things underway, and you can see for yourself.

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#10. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Tropical Island

• Card Name: Tropical Island
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: May 2023
• Sale Price: $15,000
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

➡️ Compare prices of Tropical Islands on eBay

Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Tropical Island” Graded Card

May 2023 Sale Price: $15,000

• Card: Tropical Island.
• Illustrator: Mark Poole.
• Special Feature: Dual Land, acts as both forest and island.
• Use in Gameplay: Enhances Simic playstyles, perfect for strategies like Oath of Druids and Sultai Midrange.

Scarcity and Condition:

• From 1993 Alpha print run with only about 1,008 of each rare card.
• Due to its frequent use before protective sleeves became popular, few remain in high grades.
• PSA awarded only five examples its top designation.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 5/28/2023 | Grade: PSA 8 NM-MT | Price: $7,200
2. Date: 9/22/2022 | Grade: BGS 9.5 GEM | Price: $15,600

For graded card investors, “Tropical Island” remains a highly sought-after piece due to its limited availability in high grades and historical gameplay significance.

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#9. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Underground Sea

• Card Name: Underground Sea
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $27,000
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

➡️ Compare prices of Underground Sea on eBay

Investor’s Note: The Coveted “Underground Sea” Alpha Edition

• Card: Underground Sea (Dual Land).
• Essence of Gameplay: In the captivating realm of Magic the Gathering, the deck’s composition is paramount. Lands, serving as the game’s foundational resource, empower players to cast spells and gain the upper hand. Most lands typically grant just one type of mana, yet the allure of Dual Lands lies in their dual-functionality, bestowing players with a choice of two mana types.
• Unparalleled Advantage: Whereas most contemporary Dual Lands come saddled with restrictions, the original series, like Underground Sea, granted players unbridled flexibility. Representing the charismatic combo of Blue (Island) and Black (Swamp), it’s the go-to for enthusiasts seeking to channel the formidable Dimir essence.
• Artistic Merit: This piece of artistry is credited to the celebrated Rob Alexander, whose illustration seamlessly melds the moody expanse of a swamp with the tranquility of an island. His rendition has captivated players, making it one of the most sought-after depictions.
• Modern Comparisons: In the contemporary iterations of MTG, while Dual Lands remain a staple, none quite offer the unrestricted utility synonymous with Underground Sea.
• Historical Rarity: Nestled within the Alpha set, players had a 9 in 10 chance to procure one of the original dual lands. However, many found their way into active decks, bearing the brunt of gameplay and time, making pristine copies a rarity in the collector’s market.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 4/20/2023 | Grade: PSA 10 GEM MINT | Population: 1 of 6 | Status: Premier MTG Card | Price: $27,000
2. Date: 2/20/2022 | Grade: BGS 8 NM-MT | Price: $12,600

The Underground Sea isn’t just a card; it’s a symbol of strategic flexibility and a visual masterpiece. Owning one is akin to holding a piece of MTG history – a blend of function and artistry, making it a crown jewel for both players and collectors alike.

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#8. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Shivan Dragon

• Card Name: Shivan Dragon
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $33,600
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Shivan Dragon” Graded Card

• Card: Shivan Dragon.
• Release: Part of Magic the Gathering’s pioneering Alpha set in 1993.
• Gameplay Impact: An iconic card, especially for early MTG players. A 5/5 flying creature with the ability to grow even stronger, Shivan Dragon was often the game-ending play that left an indelible mark on many players’ memories.
• Flying Mechanic: Flying creatures like Shivan Dragon offer strategic depth, as they can only be blocked by other flyers or creatures with the ‘reach’ trait, necessitating clever counterplay.
• Card Condition: Many Alpha cards were played unsleeved, with some even intentionally damaged for easy identification, making pristine copies a collector’s treasure.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 4/20/2023 | Grade: PSA 10 GEM MINT | PSA Population: 1 of 2 | Price: $33,600
2. Date: 11/17/2022 | Grade: BGS 9.5 GEM MINT | BGS Population: 1 of 10, with only two graded higher | Price: $44,400

For graded card investors, Shivan Dragon stands as an emblem of MTG’s early days. Its historical significance, combined with the rarity of mint condition copies, positions it as a valuable asset for collectors.

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#7. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Ancestral Recall

• Card Name: Ancestral Recall
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: March 2023
• Sale Price: $37,200
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

➡️ Compare prices of Ancestral Recall on eBay

Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Ancestral Recall” Graded Card

• Card: Ancestral Recall.
• Artistic Brilliance: Created by Mark Poole, the card’s visuals incorporate inspiration from the Aztec culture, making it a standout piece from MTG’s Alpha printing.
• Thought-Provoking Imagery: Ancestral Recall seamlessly weaves a story that sparks curiosity. Questions arise about the temple guards, the temple’s mysteries, the bearded man’s identity, and the power he possesses. The card name itself, “Ancestral Recall,” is an enigma.
• Release: Issued in the 1993 Alpha set, this edition was the first print run of the original MTG.
• Edition Rarity: With only 295 distinct cards and a total of 2.61 million prints, each rare card, like Ancestral Recall, had only approximately 1,008 copies released.
• Game Significance: Recognized as one of the “Power Nine,” Ancestral Recall is deemed one of the original MTG’s most formidable cards. Moreover, it’s the sole “Power Nine” card among the five “Boons”—cards that offer triple of something for a single mana. Ancestral Recall’s utility to either draw three cards or compel an opponent to draw three for just one blue mana denotes its remarkable playability.
• Collectibility: As the only Boon that hasn’t seen a reprint post its Unlimited release, Ancestral Recall has merely three print iterations. With PSA grading just four Alpha Ancestral Recall cards as PSA 10 from 71 submissions, it’s a treasured asset in premium collections.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 3/16/2023 | Grade: PSA 10 GEM MINT | PSA Population: 1 of 4 | Price: $37,200
2. Date: 5/04/2023 | Grade: BGS 9 MINT | Price: $18,600

With its compelling artwork, strategic importance, and limited availability, Ancestral Recall remains a coveted gem in the MTG universe, making it an unparalleled acquisition for any serious MTG collector.

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#6. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Chaos Orb

• Card Name: Chaos Orb
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $44,400
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Chaos Orb” Graded Card

• Card: Chaos Orb.
• Release: Part of Magic the Gathering’s debut set, Alpha, in 1993.
• Significance: Recognized as a wild card from the game’s early days, Chaos Orb was unique for its game-changing, physical flipping effect.
• Banned Status: Quickly banned in all formats in 1994 and holds a place in MTG lore due to its unique play mechanic.
• Historical Moment: Infamous for a tournament instance where a player tore the card to bits, scattering it over the opponent’s field, leading to disqualification.
• Condition: Given its physical play mechanic, mint condition copies are rare.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 4/20/2023 | Grade: PSA 10 GEM MINT | PSA Population: 1 of 1 | Price: $44,400
2. Date: 10/30/2023 | Grade: BGS 8.5 NM-MT+ | Price: $12,600

For graded card investors, “Chaos Orb” is not just a card, but a piece of MTG history. Its unconventional play style and colorful past make it a coveted relic for collectors.

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#5. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Time Walk

• Card Name: Time Walk
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $63,000
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Time Walk” Graded Card

• Card: Time Walk.
• Unique Ability: The powerful directive, “Take an extra turn,” placed Time Walk at the apex of Magic cards, especially given its pioneering role in ushering control-style gameplay.
• Reaction: Evoking strong reactions like groans and sighs at game tables, Time Walk is undeniably an iconic and impactful card.
• Release: Debuted in the 1993 Alpha set, Time Walk has since been a memorable card in the MTG universe.
• Gameplay Impact: About 72 distinct combos utilize Time Walk, some giving infinite turns or vast resources. Its potency, however, has resulted in its restriction to just one format and a single copy in that format.
• Rarity: Decades of gameplay usage means few Time Walk cards have endured in mint condition.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 4/20/2023 | Grade: PSA 10 GEM MINT | PSA Population: 1 of 10 | Price: $63,000
2. Date: 3/19/2023 | Grade: CGC 9.5 GEM MINT | CGC Population: 1 of 4 | Price: $27,600
3. Date: 5/04/2023 | Grade: PSA 8 NM-MT | Price: $14,700

Time Walk, with its commanding presence and significant gameplay role, stands as a paramount piece in MTG history. Given its historic significance and scarce mint conditions, it’s a prime collectible for any serious MTG enthusiast. Time Walk, in high grades is another rare Magic the Gathering card to add to your collection in any grade.

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#4. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Vesuvan Doppelganger

• Card Name: Vesuvan Doppelganger
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: BGS 9.5
• Sale Date: February 2023
• Sale Price: $63,000
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

➡️ Compare prices of Vesuvan Doppelganger on eBay

Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Vesuvan Doppelganger” Graded Card

• Card: Vesuvan Doppelganger.
• Special Ability: A dynamic card allowing players to adapt it into any creature present on the battlefield. This can be modified during each of the player’s upkeep, providing tactical flexibility.
• Release: Featured in the Alpha set, Magic: The Gathering’s debut set from August 1993.
• Unique Rarity: Among the 116 rare cards from the limited 2.61 million Alpha print run, only around 1,008 copies of each rare card like Vesuvan Doppelganger were released.
• Reserved Status: This card graces the reserved list, meaning Wizards of the Coast has pledged never to reprint it, further enhancing its scarcity and desirability.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 2/16/2023 | Grade: BGS 9.5 GEM MINT | BGS Population: 1 of 5, with none graded higher | Price: $63,000
2. Date: 3/26/2023 | Grade: PSA 9 MINT | PSA Population: 1 of 14, with none graded higher | Price: $7,800

Vesuvan Doppelganger, with its unique gameplay dynamics and extreme rarity, stands as a pinnacle collection piece. The card’s promise of non-reproduction and its elite grading make it a noteworthy asset for players and when found in high grades is one of the more rare Magic the Gathering cards.

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#3. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Mox Jet

• Card Name: Mox Jet
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: BGS 9.5
• Sale Date: July 2018
• Sale Price: $65,100
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

Investor’s Note: The Incomparable “Mox Jet” Alpha Edition

➡️ Compare prices of Mox Jet on eBay

• Card: Mox Jet.
• Grading Rarity: Beckett’s grading has recognized a mere 109 instances of this card. Astonishingly, only five of these have achieved the elite ‘9.5’ grade, showcasing the card’s condition sensitivity.
• Condition Vulnerability: The Mox Jet is renowned for its susceptibility to edge chipping and wear from gameplay, due to its distinctive black border.
• Card Attributes: This offering presents itself with impeccable, sharp corners, virtually untouched edges, and vivid, error-free imaging on its surface. With blemish-free borders complemented by robust card stock, it’s a pristine piece of artistry.
• Print Run Rarity: Considering only 1,100 rare cards were ever produced and most have seen gameplay (leading to wear and tear), the actual availability is significantly scarce when juxtaposed against the demand.
• Collectibility and Investment: This Mox Jet is more than just a card – it embodies perfection from every perspective. Analogous to an exceedingly rare art piece, its investment potential is as alluring as its design.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 7/26/2018 | Grade: BGS 9.5 GEM MINT | Population: 1 of 5 (None Higher) | Status: Premier MTG Card | Price: $65,100
2. Date: 3/26/2023 | Grade: BGS 5 EX | Price: $6,300

The Mox Jet is not merely a rare card; it’s a testament to the intricate fusion of art and collectibility. For any connoisseur, it’s an investment that promises not just return on capital but a journey through the rich legacy of rare Magic the Gathering cards.

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Mox Sapphire

• Card Name: Mox Sapphire
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 9
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $46,800
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Mox Ruby

• Card Name: Mox Ruby
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: March 2023
• Sale Price: $39,600
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Mox Emerald

• Card Name: Mox Emerald
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: March 2023
• Sale Price: $37,200
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Mox Pearl

• Card Name: Mox Pearl
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: March 2023
• Sale Price: $34,800
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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#2. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Timetwister

• Card Name: Timetwister
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: PSA 10
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $84,000
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

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Investor’s Note: MTG’s “Timetwister” Graded Card

• Card: Timetwister.
• Set: Part of the revered “Power Nine”.
• Significance: Deemed the “most fair” within the Power Nine by players and historians.
• Gameplay: Unique for being legal in additional formats like legacy and occasionally seen in Commander/EDH. Notably responsible for card bans due to its synergy with cards like Underworld Dreams, which led to powerful combos.
• Collector Value: Though treasured by collectors and rarely seen in actual gameplay, it holds a special place for fans of blue cards.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 4/20/2023 | Grade: PSA 10 GEM MINT | PSA Population: 1 of 3 | Price: $84,000
2. Date: 5/04/2023 | Grade: BGS 9.5 GEM MINT | Price: $52,800
3. Date: 4/27/2021 | Grade: BGS 9 MINT | Price: $23,095

For graded card investors, “Timetwister” stands as a pinnacle piece and rare Magic the Gathering cards, especially for enthusiasts of the blue playstyle. Its gameplay legacy and collector’s value make it a standout within the Power Nine.

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#1. 1993 Magic The Gathering Alpha Black Lotus

• Card Name: Black Lotus
• Year: 1993
• Release: Alpha
• Grade: BGS 9
• Sale Date: April 2023
• Sale Price: $222,000
• Auction House: PWCC Auctions

➡️ Compare prices of Black Lotus on eBay

Investor’s Note: The Pinnacle of MTG – “Black Lotus” Graded Card

• Card: Black Lotus.
• Status Within Magic: Of the esteemed Power Nine from the Alpha set, Black Lotus stands as the zenith, crowned as the mightiest card of all time in Magic: The Gathering.
• Reputation: Black Lotus’ emblematic standing makes it a foremost thought for players when MTG is mentioned.
• Competitive Restriction: With its unmatched power, the card is banned in three gameplay formats and is limited to a single copy in the vintage format.
• Gameplay Impact: This Mono Artifact, which can be played at no cost, grants players three mana of any color of their preference. This potency led to Black Lotus being a driving force behind the adoption of a card copy limit in deck building.
• Historical Gameplay: Before copy limits, players exploited decks with multiple copies of Black Lotus, combined with cards like Channel and Fireball, leading to unrestrained and rapid game conclusions.
• Artistic Mastery: The allure of the Black Lotus is further augmented by the artistic brilliance of Christopher Rush. This card is a testament to his genius and stands as his masterwork.
• Collectibility: Black Lotus remains a prime collection goal for all – whether you’re a seasoned MTG enthusiast or someone with fleeting familiarity with the game.

Recent Sales Data:

1. Date: 4/20/2023 | Grade: BGS 9 MINT | Subgrades: (9.5, 9.0, 9.5, 9.0) – 0.5 Away | Price: $222,000
2. Date: 5/25/2023 | Grade: BGS 8.5 NM-MT+ | Price: $99,000

The Black Lotus isn’t just a card; it’s a historical artifact, an epitome of gaming influence. Owning one is akin to having a piece of MTG history – a treasure that forever resonates with its monumental impact on the game and the collectibles realm. If you want the rare Magic the Gathering card, then Black Lotus is your answer.

In the end…

You can see that many factors go into determining the rarity of any given Magic The Gathering card. Of course, this list is not the end-all-be-all, definitive list of the best Magic cards, but rather a mix of personal favorites and the most valuable in the game.

With nearly 20 million players worldwide, you might be asking yourself why MTG cards are so popular, and, subsequently, collectible. Well, no one knows for sure. After all, why was D & D so popular? Or any strategic table-top game for that matter?

MTG is Continually evolving

A large part of MTG’s collectability comes from the variety offered by the game and its overall adaptive nature. Even though the feel goes unchanged, the game is continuously evolving and able to provide new adventures to even the most seasoned player.

Cards are increasing in value

Naturally, just because the game is so encapsulating to its players is not the only reason these cards hold value. Even though it may seem like you were just buying your first pack of Alphas, the game’s been around longer than many of its followers have been alive.

Attractive card designs draw crowds

Along with this extensive history, the artwork and aesthetic appeal of these cards lend to their value. With each card individually crafted by devoted artists, there is no doubt these cards offer an attractive hobby.

Collect to invest!

So, whether you are a long-time collector, you travel the globe competing with other MTG enthusiasts, or you just like the artwork brought to us by the WotC, there’s no denying the fact that Magic: The Gathering continues to make its indelible mark on trading-card history.