The Counterspell from the 1996 Pro Tour Collector Set (ml65) remains a cornerstone of blue mana strategies in the Magic: The Gathering trading card game.
Counterspell
1996 • Magic: The Gathering • Pro Tour Collector Set
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Market & Price History
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$3.49 | Guide Estimate | +3.3% | ||
- $3.49
- Source
- Guide Estimate
- Trend
- +3.3%
- Price Details
30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Sep 19, 2026
Description
Released in 1996 as part of the Pro Tour Collector Set, the Counterspell card (ml65) occupies a unique place in the history of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. This uncommon blue instant, illustrated by Mark Poole, was designed to be a staple for players navigating the early competitive landscape. The card’s primary function is straightforward yet powerful: it allows the player to counter a target spell, effectively neutralizing an opponent's attack or strategy during a critical moment in the game. For collectors of vintage trading cards, this release represents the foundational era of the game. The Pro Tour Collector Set was not just a standard expansion but a curated collection that highlighted key cards from the game's initial years. Owning the ml65 Counterspell provides a tangible connection to the 1996 era, when the mechanics of blue mana were being refined and the concept of interactive gameplay was solidified. The card’s design reflects the aesthetic norms of mid-90s card production, with a focus on clarity and immediate readability of the rules text. Collectors often seek out cards from the Pro Tour Collector Set to complete their vintage libraries or to appreciate the historical significance of the set. The Counterspell, in particular, is recognized for its enduring utility in the game’s lore and mechanics. While its direct impact on modern formats may vary, its historical value as a piece of Magic: The Gathering history is undeniable. It serves as an essential component for enthusiasts who value the origins of the game's most iconic mechanics. The ml65 card number helps identify this print within the broader scope of the set, making it a recognizable item for those tracking the evolution of the trading card game. Whether you are a historian of the hobby, a player interested in the roots of competitive play, or a collector of 1990s card games, this card offers a glimpse into the past. The Pro Tour Collector Set continues to be a reference point for understanding how Magic: The Gathering developed its core identity. This Counterspell card stands as a testament to the game's early design philosophy, where simple, effective interactions defined the player experience.
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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
Counterspell
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Mark Poole
Card Stock
English
{U}{U}
Instant
U
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Counter target spell.










