The 2006 Coldsnap expansion features Vexing Sphinx, card number 50. This Rare creature card offers a unique cumulative upkeep mechanic for Magic: The Gathering players.
2006 • Magic: The Gathering • Coldsnap
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.36 | Guide Estimate | +2.9% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 5, 2026
Released in 2006 as part of the Coldsnap set, Vexing Sphinx (card #50) stands as a distinct entry in Magic: The Gathering's history. Designed by Lars Grant-West, this Rare card introduces a challenging dynamic for players through its cumulative upkeep ability. The card requires the controller to discard a card and place age counters on it, creating a high-risk, high-reward gameplay loop that defines its strategic identity. For collectors, the Coldsnap expansion holds a special place due to its unique block mechanics and icy theme. Vexing Sphinx is a key card for those completing the set, particularly because of its complex rules text and its impact on gameplay. As a Creature — Sphinx, it brings a sense of mystique and power to any collection. The card's design and mechanics reflect the creative direction of the mid-2000s era of Magic: The Gathering. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to add depth to your deck or a collector seeking to complete a set, Vexing Sphinx provides a tangible connection to the game's rich history. Its unique abilities and iconic status make it a valuable addition to any Magic: The Gathering collection. Explore the growing inventory to find this and other classic cards from the 2006 release.
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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
Vexing Sphinx
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Lars Grant-West
Card Stock
English
{1}{U}{U}
Creature — Sphinx
4 / 4
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Flying Cumulative upkeep—Discard a card. (At the beginning of your upkeep, put an age counter on this permanent, then sacrifice it unless you pay its upkeep cost for each age counter on it.) When this creature dies, draw a card for each age counter on it.
FAQ
Vexing Sphinx has a mana cost of {1}{U}{U}, requiring three total mana to cast. This includes one generic mana and two blue mana, fitting its identity as a blue creature.
The cumulative upkeep ability requires the player to discard a card and place an age counter on the Sphinx at the beginning of each upkeep. If the player cannot or chooses not to pay the cost, they must sacrifice the creature.
When Vexing Sphinx is sacrificed or otherwise dies, its triggered ability allows the controller to draw a number of cards equal to the number of age counters on it. This makes it a valuable card for card advantage if it survives long enough.
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