The history of this 1999 Magic: The Gathering Starter Set card, featuring Owl Familiar with Flying and a draw-discard effect.
Owl Familiar
1999 • Magic: The Gathering • Starter
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Description
Released in 1999 as part of the Magic: The Gathering Starter set, Owl Familiar (card number 43) is an Uncommon creature that remains a recognizable piece of early TCG history. Designed with a mana cost of {1}{U}, this Bird creature brings Flying to the battlefield while offering a unique tactical choice: entering the field triggers a card draw followed immediately by a discard. This mechanic allows players to cycle through their library quickly, making it a functional staple in early Constructed formats. For collectors, this card represents the foundational era of Magic, when sets were designed to introduce new players to the game’s complex rules. The Starter set was instrumental in shaping the early community, and Owl Familiar stands out as a versatile asset due to its low mana cost and immediate impact. Artists like Janine Johnston helped define the visual identity of this era, giving each card a distinct feel that collectors still appreciate today. Whether you are building a nostalgic collection or studying the evolution of blue card design, Owl Familiar offers a tangible connection to the game’s roots. Its straightforward yet strategic ability makes it a favorite among enthusiasts who value both historical significance and mechanical utility. The card’s Uncommon rarity ensures it is accessible yet distinct within the Starter set’s ecosystem.
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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
Owl Familiar
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Uncommon
Janine Johnston
Card Stock
English
{1}{U}
Creature — Bird
1 / 1
U
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Flying When this creature enters, draw a card, then discard a card.
