# 1999 Magic: The Gathering Starter 1999 #34

> The Magic: The Gathering Starter 1999 Counterspell card (number 34) is an Uncommon Instant that counters target spells. This S99 release features artwork by Hannibal King and a mana cost of {U}{U}.

Canonical URL: https://supercatch.com/product/magic-the-gathering-starter-1999-counterspell-34

## Identity

- **Year**: 1999
- **Brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set**: Starter 1999
- **Card Number**: 34
- **Featured**: Counterspell
- **Game**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Rarity**: Uncommon
- **Mana cost**: {U}{U}
- **Type**: Instant
- **Color**: U
- **Language**: English
- **Material**: Card Stock
- **Finish**: Normal

## Description

The Magic: The Gathering Starter 1999 Counterspell card, identified as number 34 in the S99 set, serves as a fundamental blue Instant for players navigating early gameplay. Released in 1999, this Uncommon card requires a mana cost of {U}{U} to cast, resulting in a mana value of 2. Its primary function allows the controller to counter a target spell, providing a direct interaction tool within the game's mechanics. Designed by Hannibal King, this card belongs to the foundational Starter 1999 product line, which introduced new players to the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. The card’s blue color identity and Instant type line place it firmly within the game's historical framework, offering a straightforward yet powerful defensive option. Collectors and historians of the game often examine this release to understand the design philosophy and card distribution strategies employed by Wizards of the Coast in the late 1990s., enthusiasts can explore various listings for this 1999 release. The catalog includes diverse examples of the card, allowing buyers to compare different conditions and grading states. The consistent design elements and clear rules text make it a recognizable piece of Magic history. The card’s simplicity in its rules text—counter target spell—belies its importance in many early-game scenarios. By understanding the context of the Starter 1999 set, collectors gain insight into how the game was taught and distributed to a new generation of players. This card remains a notable artifact of that era, preserved in the memories of many who first picked up a Magic: The Gathering deck. Exploring the available options allows collectors to find the example that best suits their collection goals.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of the Starter 1999 Counterspell card?

The Counterspell card from the Starter 1999 set has a mana cost of {U}{U}, giving it a mana value of 2. This makes it an affordable blue Instant to cast during gameplay.

### Who is the artist for the Magic: The Gathering S99 Counterspell?

The artwork for the Counterspell card in the Starter 1999 set was created by Hannibal King. His illustration is featured on card number 34 of the S99 checklist.

### Is this card considered a Rare or Uncommon in the Starter 1999 set?

The Counterspell card from the 1999 Starter set is categorized as an Uncommon. It is distinct from Commons and Rares in terms of its distribution frequency within the product line.

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Editorial content updated: 2026-10-10.

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