Rod of Ruin, card number 52 from the 1996 Introductory Two-Player Set. This Magic: The Gathering uncommon artifact provides a simple yet effective damage ability for collectors.
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Introductory Two-Player Set
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$13.12 | Guide Estimate | 0% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 29, 2026
Released in 1996 as part of the Introductory Two-Player Set, Rod of Ruin stands as a foundational artifact within the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Identified as card number 52, this uncommon card was designed to introduce new players to the strategic depth of artifact interactions without overwhelming complexity. The card features a mana cost of four, placing it in the mid-game power range, and serves as a reliable resource for players looking to control the board state. As an artifact, Rod of Ruin offers a straightforward yet potent ability: by paying three mana and tapping the card, players can deal one damage to any target. This flexibility allows it to function as a removal tool against small creatures or as a finisher against low-life opponents. Its simplicity makes it an excellent teaching tool for understanding how artifacts can provide immediate value beyond just mana acceleration or protection. The card’s design reflects the early aesthetic of the game, prioritizing clear functionality and ease of use. Collectors often seek out cards from the Introductory Two-Player Set due to their historical significance in expanding the Magic: The Gathering player base. Rod of Ruin, with its clean art and practical gameplay, represents a key piece of this legacy. Whether you are building a nostalgic collection or studying the evolution of artifact design, this card offers a glimpse into the game’s early mechanics. Its enduring presence in casual play and its role in introductory sets make it a noteworthy addition to any Magic: The Gathering enthusiast’s portfolio.
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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
Rod of Ruin
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Christopher Rush
Card Stock
English
{4}
Artifact
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
{3}, {T}: This artifact deals 1 damage to any target.
FAQ
Rod of Ruin is a four-mana artifact card from the 1996 Introductory Two-Player Set. It allows players to deal one damage to any target by paying three additional mana and tapping the card.
Rod of Ruin is an uncommon card, indicated by its silver symbol in the Introductory Two-Player Set. This rarity makes it more accessible than rare cards while still offering unique gameplay value.
Released in 1996, the Introductory Two-Player Set was designed to teach new players the basics of Magic: The Gathering. It features simplified rules and cards like Rod of Ruin to help newcomers understand core mechanics.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.
