# 1996 Magic: The Gathering Alliances #45

> The 1996 Magic: The Gathering Alliances set with this uncommon black instant, Contagion. A staple for set completion and strategic gameplay.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1996
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Alliances
- **Card number**: #45
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 1996 as part of the Alliances expansion, Contagion is a black instant card numbered 45 in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Illustrated by Mike Raabe, this uncommon card features a mana cost of {3}{B}{B} and provides a strategic alternative for players seeking to manage life total and hand resources. The card allows you to exile a black card from your hand and pay 1 life instead of paying its mana cost, followed by distributing two -2/-1 counters among target creatures. This mechanic highlights the black color identity's affinity for sacrifice and life payment, making it a notable piece for enthusiasts of the game's early design philosophy. For collectors, owning a copy of Contagion is a rewarding step toward completing the Alliances set. The card's unique ability to swap life for card advantage exemplifies the creative risks taken during this era of Magic development. Whether you are building a vintage collection or analyzing the evolution of card design, this release from the Alliances series remains a key component for understanding the game's history.

## FAQ

### What type of card is Contagion in Magic: The Gathering?

Contagion is an Instant card in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. It belongs to the black color identity and is featured in the Alliances set released in 1996.

### How does the Contagion card mechanic work?

The card allows you to pay 1 life and exile a black card from your hand rather than paying its mana cost. After resolving the spell, you distribute two -2/-1 counters among one or two target creatures.

### What is the rarity of Contagion card #45?

Contagion card #45 from the Alliances set is classified as an Uncommon rarity. It is illustrated by Mike Raabe and has a mana value of 5.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.