# 1999 Magic: The Gathering Mercadian Masques #230

> The 1999 Magic: The Gathering Mercadian Masques set with this foil Bifurcate card (MMQ 230). A rare red sorcery featuring John Matson's art.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1999
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Mercadian Masques
- **Card number**: #230
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The Mercadian Masques expansion, released in 1999, remains a cornerstone for Magic: The Gathering collectors seeking distinctive foil treatments from the late 90s era. This card, Bifurcate, carries the set code MMQ and the catalog number 230, identifying it within the broader Mercadian Masques collection. As a rare sorcery card, it offers a unique gameplay mechanic that allows players to search their library for a permanent card with the same name as a target nontoken creature, put it onto the battlefield, and then shuffle their library.

The foil finish of this card adds a layer of visual appeal, making it a sought-after item for those who appreciate the aesthetic quality of vintage Magic: The Gathering cards. The artwork by John Matson complements the card's identity, providing a tangible connection to the game's rich history. Collectors often look for this card to complete their Mercadian Masques sets or to add a touch of nostalgia to their Magic: The Gathering collections. The card's mana cost of {3}{G} and its mana value of 4 place it in a specific strategic niche, appealing to both casual players and serious collectors. By including this foil Bifurcate in their collection, enthusiasts can preserve a piece of Magic: The Gathering's legacy, ensuring that the game's vibrant past remains accessible for future generations.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of Bifurcate?

The mana cost for Bifurcate is {3}{G}, requiring three generic mana and one green mana to cast. This results in a mana value of 4, placing it in the mid-game range for strategic play.

### Who illustrated the Bifurcate card in Mercadian Masques?

The artwork for Bifurcate in the Mercadian Masques set was created by John Matson, whose style is well-regarded among Magic: The Gathering fans for its detailed and expressive character designs.

### What type of card is Bifurcate?

Bifurcate is a sorcery card in Magic: The Gathering, meaning it can only be played during your main phase when the stack is empty. It is classified as a rare card within the Mercadian Masques expansion.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.