The Limited Edition Alpha Black Ward card, card number 5 from Magic: The Gathering's historic 1993 release. This Uncommon Enchantment offers collectors a piece of TCG history.
1993 • Magic: The Gathering • Limited Edition Alpha
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$60.00 | Guide Estimate | 0% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 4, 2026
Card number 5 in the Limited Edition Alpha set, Black Ward stands as one of the foundational pieces of Magic: The Gathering’s 1993 debut. Designed by Dan Frazier, this Uncommon Enchantment — Aura captures the early strategic depth of the game with a simple yet effective defensive capability. As a collector item, it represents the genesis of a genre, appealing to those who value the original designs and mechanics that launched the trading card game phenomenon. The card’s functionality revolves around protecting a single creature from black mana, a core mechanic that defined early white mana strategies. For investors and hobbyists, Alpha cards are highly sought after due to their historical significance and limited availability. Owning a piece of this release allows collectors to hold a fragment of gaming history that has influenced countless titles since., we curate a diverse selection of vintage trading card game cards, ensuring enthusiasts can find high-quality examples of these legendary releases. Whether you are building a comprehensive Alpha set or seeking a specific staple for your collection, the Black Ward offers a compelling addition. Its status as an Uncommon card in the first print run adds a layer of rarity that distinguishes it from later reprints. The card’s enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and its role in the game’s early competitive landscape, making it a favorite among serious collectors. Exploring the Limited Edition Alpha collection provides insight into the design philosophy of the era, where card mechanics were straightforward yet impactful. The Black Ward exemplifies this approach, offering reliable protection without complex interactions. For those interested in the evolution of Magic: The Gathering, this card serves as a crucial reference point.
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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
Black Ward
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Dan Frazier
Card Stock
English
{W}
Enchantment — Aura
W
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Enchant creature Enchanted creature has protection from black. This effect doesn't remove this Aura.
FAQ
Black Ward is classified as an Uncommon card within the Limited Edition Alpha set. This rarity level indicates it was more frequently printed than Rares but less common than Commons, making it a key component for complete set builders.
The artwork for Black Ward was created by Dan Frazier, one of the original artists for Magic: The Gathering’s first release. His contributions helped define the visual identity of the game's early years.
Black Ward is an Aura enchantment that grants the enchanted creature protection from black mana. This defensive effect helps safeguard key units from black spells and abilities, reflecting the strategic role of white mana in the game's early design.
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