The 1995 Fourth Edition alternate version of Royal Assassin (card #157) is a sought-after Black mana creature for Magic: The Gathering completists.
Royal Assassin
1995 • Magic: The Gathering • Fourth Edition • 4th Edition Alternate
$1,999.99
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Description
Released in 1995 as part of the Fourth Edition set, Royal Assassin holds a distinct place in Magic: The Gathering history. This card, numbered 157, belongs to the 4th Edition Alternate subset, featuring a unique illustration by Tom Wänerstrand that differentiates it from the standard print run. For collectors of vintage Magic cards, the alternate treatment makes this piece particularly valuable for completing a Fourth Edition set. As a rare card from the game's foundational era, Royal Assassin represents the strategic depth of early Magic design. The card depicts a Human Assassin creature with a mana cost of three, requiring one generic and two Black mana to play. Its ability allows a player to destroy a target tapped creature, a mechanic that highlights the tactical diversity available in the game's early years. Collectors often seek this card not just for its gameplay utility, but for its historical significance as part of the core set that helped define the trading card game genre. Whether you are building a collection of alternate art cards or focusing on vintage core sets, this 1995 release provides a tangible connection to the game's roots. The card's enduring appeal lies in its combination of iconic artwork, strategic relevance, and the prestige of being part of the Fourth Edition family. It stands as a testament to the creativity and complexity that have driven Magic: The Gathering's longevity since its introduction.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Year
1995
Brand
Magic: The Gathering
Series
Fourth Edition
Subset
4th Edition Alternate
Subset Type
Subset
Card Number
#157
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Royal Assassin
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Tom Wänerstrand
Card Stock
English
{1}{B}{B}
Creature — Human Assassin
1 / 1
B
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
{T}: Destroy target tapped creature.
Trained in the arts of stealth, the Royal Assassins choose their victims carefully, relying on timing and precision rather than brute force.
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