# 1994 Magic: The Gathering Foreign Black Border #78

> The Sea Serpent from the 1994 Foreign Black Border set is a powerful blue creature that demands strategic play due to its specific mana requirements and board control mechanics.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1994
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Foreign Black Border
- **Card number**: #78
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The Sea Serpent, numbered 78 in the 1994 Foreign Black Border set, stands as a defining blue creature in the early history of Magic: The Gathering. Designed by Jeff A. Menges, this Common card requires five generic mana and one blue mana to cast, resulting in a formidable 5/5 power and toughness. Its unique rules text introduces a distinct strategic layer: it cannot attack unless the defending player controls an Island, and it must be sacrificed if the controller lacks any Islands on the battlefield. This mechanic forces players to carefully manage their land resources and assess board states before engaging in combat. Collectors often seek this card for its role in the foundational Foreign Black Border series, which established the visual and mechanical standards for the game. Completing a set of these early releases offers a tangible connection to the origins of competitive trading card gaming. The Sea Serpent remains a notable piece for those studying the evolution of blue deck strategies and the artistic direction of the game's first major expansion.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost for Sea Serpent in Magic: The Gathering?

Sea Serpent has a mana cost of five generic mana and one blue mana, totaling a mana value of six. This makes it a high-cost creature that typically requires significant ramp or mana acceleration to cast in the early to mid-game.

### How does the Sea Serpent's ability affect gameplay?

The creature cannot attack unless the defending player controls an Island, providing a defensive advantage. Additionally, if its controller controls no Islands, the creature must be sacrificed, creating a vulnerability that opponents can exploit by removing all Islands from play.

### Who illustrated the original Foreign Black Border Sea Serpent card?

The original 1994 Foreign Black Border version of the Sea Serpent was illustrated by artist Jeff A. Menges. His work helped define the dark, atmospheric aesthetic associated with the early black-bordered editions of the game.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.