The Ixalan #96 common instant Costly Plunder from Magic: The Gathering. This card offers a strategic discard mechanism to draw two cards.
2017 • Magic: The Gathering • Ixalan
No listings available right now.
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.25 | Guide Estimate | +13.6% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 1, 2026
Costly Plunder is a black instant card from the 2017 Ixalan expansion in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Carrying the card number 96, this common rarity spell is illustrated by Ben Maier and serves as a resource-generating tool for players utilizing black mana. The card’s mana cost of one generic and one black mana makes it accessible early in games, fitting seamlessly into decks that rely on black spells. The core mechanic of Costly Plunder involves a unique trade-off. To cast the spell, the controller must sacrifice an artifact or creature as an additional cost. In exchange for this loss, the player draws two cards. This dynamic allows for strategic board manipulation, enabling players to cycle through their deck while simultaneously clearing unwanted permanents or fueling sacrifice synergies. The flavor text, referencing Vraska’s will of stone, adds narrative depth to the card’s design within the Ixalan block’s storyline. Collectors of Magic: The Gathering appreciate Costly Plunder for its straightforward utility and its place in the Ixalan set. As a common card, it is widely available, making it an accessible addition to both casual and competitive collections. The card’s design reflects the aesthetic of the 2017 release, appealing to fans of the set’s art and themes. Whether building a deck focused on artifact sacrifice or simply needing a reliable card draw option, Costly Plunder offers consistent value. Its simplicity and effectiveness have made it a staple for many players looking to optimize their black decks. The card’s presence in the Ixalan set highlights Magic: The Gathering’s commitment to providing diverse gameplay options across all rarities. For those interested in the strategic depth of the trading card game, this card represents a classic example of resource management and card advantage.
We'll pre-fill the product details from this catalog entry, so your listing lands on this exact page. Just add photos of your copy, pick its condition, and set your price.
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
Costly Plunder
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Ben Maier
Card Stock
English
{1}{B}
Instant
B
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
As an additional cost to cast this spell, sacrifice an artifact or creature. Draw two cards.
No lock of iron is a match for Vraska's will of stone.
FAQ
Costly Plunder is an instant that allows you to draw two cards. To cast it, you must sacrifice an artifact or creature as an additional cost.
The mana cost for Costly Plunder is one generic mana and one black mana, totaling a mana value of two.
Costly Plunder is part of the Ixalan expansion, released in 2017. It is the 96th card in the set and has a common rarity.
Explore cards with this name across sets and editions. Check each card’s details before choosing a version.