This 1997 Magic: The Gathering Fifth Edition card features Frozen Shade, a black Creature — Shade with unique abilities. A staple of the classic 5ED set.
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Fifth Edition
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.17As of 9/22/2026 | Guide Estimate | -5.6% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Sep 22, 2026
Released in 1997, the Magic: The Gathering Fifth Edition is a cornerstone for collectors and players alike. This card, Frozen Shade, carries the catalog number 163 and is part of the foundational 5ED set. As a black Creature — Shade, it brings a distinct mechanical presence to the game through its mana cost of {2}{B} and a mana value of three. The card’s design aligns with the classic aesthetic of the late 1990s, making it a recognizable piece for enthusiasts of the era. Frozen Shade offers a straightforward yet strategic utility. Its ability allows players to gain +1/+1 until end of turn by paying one black mana, providing flexible combat options. This mechanic is particularly useful for adjusting power and toughness in dynamic matchups. The card’s type line, Creature — Shade, places it within a specific subset of creatures that often share thematic traits, though its abilities stand on their own merits. The artwork for Frozen Shade was created by DiTerlizzi, whose style contributes to the visual identity of the Fifth Edition set. Collectors often seek out cards from this era due to their historical significance in the Magic: The Gathering landscape. The flavor text, quoting Edgar Allan Poe, adds a layer of narrative depth that resonates with fans of the game's literary connections., we understand the value of preserving these classic cards. Whether you are building a vintage collection or simply appreciate the artistry of 1990s card design, Frozen Shade 163 is a notable addition. Its status as a common card does not diminish its appeal; rather, it makes it an accessible entry point for new collectors while remaining a nostalgic favorite for veterans. The card’s black color identity ensures it fits seamlessly into decks that prioritize black mana strategies. For those interested in the broader context of Magic: The Gathering, Fifth Edition remains a pivotal release. It introduced many players to the game and established a baseline for future sets. Frozen Shade, with its simple yet effective rules text, exemplifies the design philosophy of the time. By focusing on clear mechanics and evocative flavor, cards like this one helped define the game's early identity. If you are looking to complete a Fifth Edition collection or add a classic black creature to your library, Frozen Shade 163 is a worthy candidate. Its enduring presence in the Magic: The Gathering community speaks to its lasting impact.
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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
Frozen Shade
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
DiTerlizzi
Card Stock
English
{2}{B}
Creature — Shade
0 / 1
B
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
{B}: This creature gets +1/+1 until end of turn.
"There are some qualities, some incorporate things, / That have a double life, which thus is made / A type of twin entity which springs / From matter and light, evinced in solid and shade." —Edgar Allan Poe, "Silence"
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