This catalog page covers the Balance card, number 3 from the historic 1993 Limited Edition Beta set of Magic: The Gathering.
1993 • Magic: The Gathering • Limited Edition Beta
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$1,699.99 | Guide Estimate | +6.3% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 4, 2026
Balance is card number 3 from the Limited Edition Beta set, released in 1993 as part of the original Magic: The Gathering foundation. Created by artist Mark Poole, this rare sorcery card carries a mana cost of {1}{W} and has a mana value of 2. It remains a cornerstone of the game's early history, representing the raw power dynamics present in the very first print run. The card's effect is distinct among early sorceries. Each player must choose a number of lands they control equal to the player who controls the fewest, then sacrifice the rest. The same logic applies to cards in hand and creatures on the battlefield. This mechanic forces a complete reset of resources, making it one of the most dramatic and high-stakes cards in the format. Collectors value this card for its historical significance as part of the Limited Edition Beta release. The Limited Edition Beta set established many of the game's core rules and aesthetics. Owning a copy of Balance allows enthusiasts to connect with the era when Magic: The Gathering first defined the trading card game genre. The card's white color identity and sorcery type line are classic examples of the design philosophy used in the game's inception. Whether you are a historian of the game or a player looking to understand its roots, Balance offers a tangible link to 1993. Its unique ability to equalize the board state makes it a fascinating subject for analysis and collection. The card's status as a rare from the Limited Edition Beta set ensures its place in the lineage of collectible trading cards.
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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
Balance
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Mark Poole
Card Stock
English
{1}{W}
Sorcery
W
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Each player chooses a number of lands they control equal to the number of lands controlled by the player who controls the fewest, then sacrifices the rest. Players discard cards and sacrifice creatures the same way.
FAQ
Balance has a mana cost of {1}{W}, resulting in a mana value of 2. It is a white card that can be cast using white mana sources.
The original illustration for card number 3 in the Limited Edition Beta set was created by artist Mark Poole.
Each player chooses a number of lands equal to the player with the fewest lands and sacrifices the rest. Players also discard cards and sacrifice creatures in the same manner.
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