# 2011 Magic: The Gathering Magic 2012 #203

> Crown of Empires is an Uncommon Artifact card from the Magic 2012 core set, designed by artist John Avon and numbered 203.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2011
- **Brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set**: Magic 2012
- **Card Number**: 203
- **Featured**: Crown of Empires
- **Game**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Rarity**: Uncommon
- **Mana cost**: {2}
- **Type**: Artifact
- **Language**: English
- **Material**: Card Stock
- **Finish**: Normal

## Description

Crown of Empires, identified as card number 203 in the Magic 2012 core set, is an Uncommon Artifact that has established itself as a recognizable piece for Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts. Released in 2011, this card represents a distinct moment in the evolution of the game's core mechanics, offering players a strategic option for board control through its unique artifact synergy. The card’s design and functionality reflect the era’s focus on interactive gameplay, where players could manipulate the battlefield by tapping target creatures.

The strategic value of Crown of Empires lies in its conditional ability, which allows the controller to tap a creature and, under specific circumstances, gain control of it. This effect requires the player to control both the Scepter of Empires and the Throne of Empires, creating a compelling narrative of imperial dominance within the game’s lore. Collectors often seek this card not just for its gameplay utility but for its place within the broader Magic 2012 collection, which serves as a foundational set for many long-time players. The card’s mana cost of two makes it accessible early in the game, allowing for flexible deployment in various deck archetypes.

For those building a comprehensive collection of Magic: The Gathering cards, Crown of Empires serves as an essential component of the Magic 2012 set. Its status as an Uncommon card means it is widely available yet still holds significance for completists aiming to assemble every card from the M12 expansion. The card’s rules text, paraphrased from its original printing, emphasizes the importance of artifact synergy, a theme that resonates with collectors who appreciate the depth of strategic design in TCGs. Whether used in casual play or collected for its historical context within the Magic universe, Crown of Empires remains a relevant and sought-after item for enthusiasts of the trading card game.

## FAQ

### What type of card is Crown of Empires in Magic 2012?

Crown of Empires is an Uncommon Artifact card from the Magic 2012 core set. It has a mana cost of two and is numbered 203 in the M12 expansion.

### What is the strategic function of Crown of Empires?

The card allows a player to tap a target creature. If the player also controls the Scepter of Empires and the Throne of Empires, they gain control of that creature instead.

### Who illustrated the Crown of Empires card?

The card was illustrated by John Avon. It features flavor text that reads, "With this crown, assert your authority." / —Crown inscription.

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Editorial content updated: 2026-09-29.

Site deployment: 2025-11-29.