The Whir of Invention card from Magic: The Gathering's Aether Revolt set offers collectors a rare instant with the unique improvise mechanic, allowing players to utilize artifacts to cast spells.
2017 • Magic: The Gathering • Aether Revolt
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$5.64 | Guide Estimate | -19.8% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 1, 2026
Whir of Invention is a notable Instant card from the Aether Revolt expansion, released by Wizards of the Coast in 2017. As card number 49 in the set, this Rare card has captured the attention of Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts who appreciate its innovative gameplay mechanics. The card features a mana cost of {X}{U}{U}{U}, requiring three blue mana sources plus an additional variable cost determined by the player. The defining feature of Whir of Invention is the improvise mechanic. This ability allows players to tap artifacts they control to pay for the spell's generic mana cost. Each tapped artifact reduces the total mana requirement by one, enabling strategic resource management during gameplay. This mechanic encourages players to build decks that synergize artifact interactions with blue spells, creating dynamic and versatile strategies. In terms of design, Whir of Invention is illustrated by Christine Choi, whose artwork contributes to the distinct aesthetic of the Aether Revolt set. The card’s layout follows the standard Magic: The Gathering design, with clear text boxes and typography that ensure readability. Collectors often seek this card for its combination of mechanical depth and artistic presentation. For those building collections, Whir of Invention represents a key component of the Aether Revolt set. Its rarity and unique mechanic make it a valuable addition for players looking to explore artifact-based strategies. The card’s mana value of 3 also provides flexibility in deck construction, allowing it to fit into various blue-centric archetypes. Whether for competitive play or casual collection, this card remains a significant piece of the Magic: The Gathering landscape.
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The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Whir of Invention
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Christine Choi
Card Stock
English
{X}{U}{U}{U}
Instant
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Improvise (Your artifacts can help cast this spell. Each artifact you tap after you're done activating mana abilities pays for {1}.) Search your library for an artifact card with mana value X or less, put it onto the battlefield, then shuffle.
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