The Dread Specter from Magic: The Gathering's 1996 Mirage expansion. This black uncommon creature offers unique blocking abilities for collectors and strategists.
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Mirage
No listings available right now.
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.20 | Guide Estimate | 0% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Oct 11, 2026
The Dread Specter, cataloged as card number 119 in the 1996 Mirage expansion, remains a distinct entry in Magic: The Gathering history. Released under the Mirage set code, this black uncommon creature card introduces a strategic defensive mechanic that has appealed to players since its initial printing. Designed by Kathryn Rathke, the card features a mana cost of {3}{B} and functions as a 2/2 Specter, providing a solid presence on the battlefield for black-aligned decks. Collectors value the Dread Specter not only for its gameplay utility but also for its place within the Mirage era, a pivotal time for the trading card game's development. The card’s ability triggers whenever it blocks or becomes blocked by a nonblack creature, destroying that creature at end of combat. This interaction makes it a notable choice for deck builders looking to control the board against lighter-colored threats. While many cards from this period have seen reprints, original Mirage prints like this one hold significant nostalgic and historical weight for dedicated enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to complete a Mirage set, build a Commander deck with a thematic focus on black creatures, or simply add a classic piece of TCG history to your collection, the Dread Specter offers both mechanical depth and collectible appeal. Its status as an uncommon in its original set makes it accessible yet sought after by those who appreciate the foundational cards that shaped early competitive play. Explore the diverse inventory available to secure your next addition to the collection.
We'll pre-fill the product details from this catalog entry, so your listing lands on this exact page. Just add photos of your copy, pick its condition, and set your price.
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
Dread Specter
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Kathryn Rathke
Card Stock
English
{3}{B}
Creature — Specter
2 / 2
B
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Whenever this creature blocks or becomes blocked by a nonblack creature, destroy that creature at end of combat.
Whatever follows life is incurable. —Zhalfirin aphorism
Browse sets, compare artwork, and track your collection.