Illicit Auction is a red sorcery from Magic: The Gathering's 1999 Classic Sixth Edition set, offering a unique bidding mechanic to gain creature control.
1999 • Magic: The Gathering • Classic Sixth Edition
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$5.18 | Guide Estimate | +0.4% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 3, 2026
Released in 1999 as part of the Classic Sixth Edition, Illicit Auction (Card #190) stands as a definitive red sorcery in Magic: The Gathering's early history. Designed by artist Scott Kirschner, this card is recognized by its rare rarity symbol and the distinctive 6ED set code that marks it within the comprehensive reprint series. As a five-mana spell requiring three generic and two red mana, it offers a high-impact strategic option for players seeking to manipulate the board state through resource exchange. The card’s mechanics revolve around a unique bidding war for a target creature. You initiate the auction with a bid of zero life, and subsequent players in turn order may raise the stakes. The highest bidder wins control of the creature but must pay the cost in life points, a effect that persists indefinitely. This design creates dynamic interactions where players must weigh the immediate value of the creature against the long-term health of their own board. For collectors, Illicit Auction represents a key piece of the Classic Sixth Edition identity. This set was pivotal in standardizing the game’s card frame and rules text, making these cards foundational for understanding the evolution of Magic: The Gathering. Whether you are building a vintage collection, focusing on red sorceries, or simply appreciating the strategic depth of early Magic designs, this card offers a tangible connection to the game’s rich heritage. It remains a popular choice for enthusiasts looking to complete the Sixth Edition checklist or acquire a piece of Magic’s formative era. The card’s enduring popularity in casual and competitive formats alike speaks to its clever design and lasting impact on the trading card game 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
Illicit Auction
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Scott Kirschner
Card Stock
English
{3}{R}{R}
Sorcery
R
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Each player may bid life for control of target creature. You start the bidding with a bid of 0. In turn order, each player may top the high bid. The bidding ends if the high bid stands. The high bidder loses life equal to the high bid and gains control of the creature. (This effect lasts indefinitely.)
FAQ
Yes, Illicit Auction was first printed in the Sixth Edition, released in 1999, which was part of the original core set line that helped standardize the game's rules and card design.
This version is identified by the set code 6ED and features the classic card frame and rules text format established during that era, making it a staple for vintage collectors.
The caster starts a bid of zero life for a target creature, and other players may raise the bid in turn order; the highest bidder gains control of the creature but loses life equal to the final bid amount.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.
