Retraction Helix is a 2014 Common instant card from the Born of the Gods expansion, offering a unique tempo advantage by returning nonland permanents to their owner's hand.
2014 • Magic: The Gathering • Born of the Gods
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.18 | Guide Estimate | |||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 11, 2026
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Each point is the last stored observation that day for this printing, condition, grader, autograph status and source. Gaps mean no observation; guide estimates and asking prices are not completed sales.Retraction Helix, identified as card number 49 in the Born of the Gods expansion, is a blue Instant from Magic: The Gathering released in 2014. Designed by artist Phill Simmer, this Common card is a staple for players seeking flexible interaction without sacrificing mana efficiency. With a mana cost of only one blue mana, it provides immediate impact on the battlefield, making it a highly efficient tool for controlling the game state. The card’s ability allows a player to target a creature, granting it the power to return any nonland permanent to its owner’s hand until the end of the turn. This unique mechanic offers a distinct strategic advantage, enabling players to temporarily neutralize threats or disrupt opponent strategies in ways that traditional removal spells cannot. Unlike standard counters, this effect leaves the permanent on the battlefield temporarily, creating opportunities for follow-up plays or simply stalling an opponent’s momentum. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering trading cards value Retraction Helix for its clever design and the strategic depth it brings to the game. As part of the Born of the Gods set, it represents a period of innovation in the game’s mechanics, appealing to those who appreciate versatile spells that can turn the tide of a match. Whether building a competitive deck or curating a collection of notable cards, this instant remains a relevant and interesting piece of the game’s history. For enthusiasts of trading card games, owning a copy of Retraction Helix adds a layer of strategic versatility to any library. Its ability to interact with a wide range of permanents makes it a valuable asset in various game scenarios. The card’s enduring popularity among players and collectors alike speaks to its effective design and the creative possibilities it introduces to gameplay.
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The core identity of the card within the set.
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Featured
Retraction Helix
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Phill Simmer
Card Stock
English
{U}
Instant
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Until end of turn, target creature gains "{T}: Return target nonland permanent to its owner's hand."
Where the geometries of the world collapse, a master of the Æther can harvest power beyond comprehending.
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