The 2012 Magic: The Gathering Commander's Arsenal Desertion foil card (CM1 #4) is a powerful blue Instant designed to disrupt opponents and steal permanents.
2012 • Magic: The Gathering • Commander's Arsenal
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$3.61 | Guide Estimate | -1.6% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 11, 2026
Commander's Arsenal Desertion is a highly sought-after blue Instant from the 2012 Magic: The Gathering Commander's Arsenal set, identified by card number 4 and set code CM1. This foil version adds a layer of visual appeal to one of the game's most effective control tools. Designed by Richard Kane Ferguson, the card carries a rare treatment that distinguishes it within the Commander's Arsenal release. In gameplay, Desertion offers a potent interaction with an opponent's board state. With a mana cost of {3}{U}{U} and a mana value of 5, this spell allows the caster to counter a target spell. The true power lies in its secondary effect: if the countered spell is an artifact or creature, the card is placed directly onto the battlefield under your control rather than going to the graveyard. This mechanic makes it a versatile answer to threats and a way to gain resources from the opposition. Collectors appreciate this card for its strategic depth and its place in the Commander format history. The foil finish enhances its desirability for those who value both aesthetic quality and functional utility in their collections. Whether you are building a blue-based control deck or simply appreciate the elegant mechanics of card interaction, Desertion represents a key piece of the Magic: The Gathering experience. Its ability to turn an opponent's move into your advantage has kept it relevant for over a decade. Adding this card to your collection ensures you have access to a timeless strategy that rewards careful planning and timing. The Commander's Arsenal set serves as a curated collection of staples, and this foil example stands out as a premium choice for enthusiasts of the trading card game.
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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
Desertion
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Richard Kane Ferguson
Card Stock
English
Foil
{3}{U}{U}
Instant
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Counter target spell. If an artifact or creature spell is countered this way, put that card onto the battlefield under your control instead of into its owner's graveyard.
First the insult, then the injury.
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