# 2005 Magic: The Gathering Ninth Edition #165★

> The 2005 Ninth Edition Spineless Thug (165★) star foil, a distinctive Phyrexian Zombie Mercenary card for Magic: The Gathering collectors.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/magic-the-gathering-ninth-edition-spineless-thug-165-star-foil

## Identity

- **Year**: 2005
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Ninth Edition
- **Card number**: #165★
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The 2005 release of Ninth Edition remains a cornerstone for Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts, offering a standardized design that defines the era. Within this foundational set, the Spineless Thug (card number 165★) stands out as a notable entry for collectors focusing on the Phyrexian or Zombie subtypes. This card features a rare star foil treatment, denoted by the 165★ designation, which adds a unique visual appeal to the common rarity creature. As a Creature — Phyrexian Zombie Mercenary with a mana cost of {1}{B}, it represents the strategic depth and thematic consistency of the 9ED expansion. Collectors often seek out the foil variants of Ninth Edition to complete specialized portfolios or to appreciate the craftsmanship of Matthew D. Wilson’s artwork through the reflective finish. The star foil treatment makes this card a favorite among those who value both the historical significance of the set and the aesthetic quality of its parallel versions. Whether you are building a comprehensive Ninth Edition collection or focusing on specific creature types in Magic: The Gathering, the Spineless Thug foil offers a tangible connection to the game's rich history. Its enduring presence in the collector community highlights the lasting impact of Ninth Edition as a pivotal release in the trading card game landscape.

## FAQ

### What does the star symbol (★) mean on Magic cards?

The star symbol indicates a rare parallel version of a card, often featuring a unique foil treatment or design. In the context of Ninth Edition, the 165★ designation identifies the Spineless Thug as one of these special foil variants.

### Who illustrated the Spineless Thug card?

The Spineless Thug from the Ninth Edition was illustrated by Matthew D. Wilson. His artwork is well-regarded among collectors for its depiction of the Phyrexian zombie mercenary.

### Is the Spineless Thug a Zombie or Mercenary type?

In the Ninth Edition, the Spineless Thug is classified as both a Zombie and a Mercenary creature type, with the Phyrexian subtype. This dual classification is important for collectors focusing on specific creature archetypes.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.