The 1996 Mirage set Hammer of Bogardan (#181) is a rare Magic: The Gathering sorcery card known for its unique graveyard recursion mechanic. This catalog entry represents the standard Mirage print of this influential red spell.
Hammer of Bogardan
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Mirage
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Price History
$3.39
Description
Released in 1996 as part of the Mirage expansion, Hammer of Bogardan is a distinct sorcery card from the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Carrying the card number 181 and marked with the rare rarity symbol, this red spell has long been recognized for its clever gameplay design. The card features a mana cost of {1}{R}{R} and allows players to deal 3 damage to any target. Its standout feature is the activated ability, which permits the card to return from the graveyard to the hand for {2}{R}{R}{R} during the controller's upkeep. This recursion mechanic makes it a persistent threat in vintage formats and a favorite among players who appreciate strategic depth. Designed by artist Ron Spencer, the card embodies the aesthetic of the Mirage block, which was defined by its desert-themed artwork and innovative mechanics like the flashback concept. As a rare card, it holds significant appeal for collectors of vintage Magic: The Gathering products. Collectors often seek out specific card numbers from this era to complete their Mirage collections or to build themed decks centered around recursion and damage spells. For investors and hobbyists, the Hammer of Bogardan represents a tangible piece of trading card game history. Its status as a rare card from a foundational set ensures its continued relevance in the secondary market. Whether you are looking to enhance your vintage Magic collection or simply appreciate the ingenuity of 1990s game design, this card is a valuable addition. The Mirage expansion remains a cornerstone of Magic: The Gathering lore, and cards like Hammer of Bogardan are key components of that legacy. Explore the diverse selection of vintage TCG cards available to find this and other essential pieces of the game's history.
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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
Hammer of Bogardan
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Ron Spencer
Card Stock
English
{1}{R}{R}
Sorcery
R
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Hammer of Bogardan deals 3 damage to any target. {2}{R}{R}{R}: Return this card from your graveyard to your hand. Activate only during your upkeep.



















