The 2000 Nemesis expansion with this foil Rusting Golem #138, an artifact creature defined by its dynamic fading mechanic.
Rusting Golem
2000 • Magic: The Gathering • Nemesis
No Listings Available
No listings available right now.
Price History
$1.03
Description
The Rusting Golem from the 2000 Nemesis expansion stands as a distinct entry in Magic: The Gathering history, identified by card number 138. As an artifact creature golem, it offers a unique gameplay experience that diverges from traditional static stats. Its power and toughness are not fixed; instead, they dynamically scale based on the number of fade counters currently on the card. This creates a compelling risk-reward dynamic for players, as the creature enters the battlefield with five fade counters, meaning its initial strength is zero but grows with each turn if the player can sustain the counter removal. For collectors, this card is notable for its foil finish, which adds visual depth to Greg Staples' artwork. The Nemesis set is widely recognized for exploring the darker consequences of the story's events, and this card embodies that theme through its fragile yet potentially powerful nature. Owning a copy of Rusting Golem allows enthusiasts to appreciate both the mechanical innovation and the artistic direction of the early 2000s era of the trading card game. Whether you are building a themed collection around artifact creatures or seeking to complete the Nemesis set, this foil variant provides a tangible connection to the game's rich lore. The interplay between the fading mechanic and the card's eventual power makes it a memorable piece for any library. For those who value the strategic depth and historical significance of early Magic expansions, the Nemesis Rusting Golem remains a fascinating subject of study and collection. It represents a moment in the game's evolution where mechanics challenged players to think about resource management in new ways. Collectors often seek out foil versions of uncommon cards like this one because they offer a premium tactile experience. The combination of the card's unique rules text and its shiny finish makes it a standout item for display. As you add this piece to your collection, you are acquiring a part of the Nemesis expansion's legacy, representing a time when complex mechanics were being refined to enhance player engagement.
Have one of these to sell?
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.
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
Rusting Golem
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Greg Staples
Card Stock
English
Foil
{4}
Artifact Creature — Golem
* / *
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Fading 5 (This creature enters with five fade counters on it. At the beginning of your upkeep, remove a fade counter from it. If you can't, sacrifice it.) Rusting Golem's power and toughness are each equal to the number of fade counters on it.






