The 1996 Mirage set opener, Afterlife, is an uncommon white Instant that offers a strategic trade-off between removing an enemy creature and gaining a flying Spirit token.
Afterlife
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Mirage
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Market Price Guide
| Condition | Value | Comps | Source | Price Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raw / Ungraded | $0.23Over the last 30 days, stored prices ranged from $0.23 to $0.23 across 2 capture days. Change between Sep 4, 2026 and Sep 11, 2026: 0%. Compares the same source, grade and signed status. Capture days are not completed-sale counts. | Unknown | Guide estimate Based on TCGplayer Market (reference) | Source observation date unavailable |
Price History
Description
As the first card in the Mirage expansion, Afterlife (Card #1) serves as a foundational white Instant for Magic: The Gathering players. Released in 1996, this uncommon card from the Mirage set provides a straightforward but impactful effect that has remained relevant in various formats over the decades. The card features artwork by Pete Venters, capturing the ethereal tone of the block's storyline. The gameplay mechanics of Afterlife are distinct and tactical. By paying two generic mana and one white mana, players can destroy a target creature with the specific clause that it cannot be regenerated. This denial of regeneration is a powerful tool against defensive strategies that rely on persistent threats. Instead of leaving the board empty, the controller of Afterlife creates a 1/1 white Spirit creature token with flying. This token serves as a versatile asset, capable of blocking aerial threats or serving as a sacrifice for other cards in the deck. Collectors and players alike appreciate Afterlife for its elegant design and consistent utility. As a white card, it fits seamlessly into mono-white or white-heavy decks that prioritize control and board presence. The card’s ability to trade a permanent removal effect for a temporary but mobile token makes it a staple in many competitive and casual lists. The flavor text, "Facets of life, reflections of the soul," adds a layer of narrative depth to the mechanical function, reminding players of the cycle of life and death within the Mirage universe., enthusiasts can explore the broader Mirage set, including other key cards that defined the block. Whether you are building a competitive deck or simply collecting iconic cards from the 1990s, Afterlife represents a significant piece of Magic: The Gathering history. Its straightforward design and reliable effect make it a favorite among both new and veteran players. For those interested in the strategic nuances of white removal, Afterlife offers a perfect balance of risk and reward. The flying token provides immediate board presence while the destruction effect clears the path for future plays. This dual nature ensures that Afterlife remains a versatile choice in any white deck, continuing to be a sought-after card for its historical significance and gameplay value.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Afterlife
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Pete Venters
Card Stock
English
{2}{W}
Instant
W
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Destroy target creature. It can't be regenerated. Its controller creates a 1/1 white Spirit creature token with flying.
Facets of life, reflections of the soul.










