The 2021 Strixhaven Mystical Archive release of the rare instant card Memory Lapse (STA 16) offers collectors a distinct piece of Magic: The Gathering history.
2021 • Magic: The Gathering • Strixhaven Mystical Archive
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$1.32 | Guide Estimate | -34.7% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 5, 2026
Memory Lapse, card number 16 from the 2021 Strixhaven Mystical Archive set, represents a pivotal moment in Magic: The Gathering's academic-themed expansion. Created by artist Kristina Collantes, this rare instant card carries the set code STA and is designed for players seeking strategic depth in their decks. As a blue spell with a mana cost of {1}{U} and a mana value of 2, it provides an efficient answer to opposing plays without breaking the turn structure. The card’s primary function allows players to counter a target spell, redirecting it to the top of its owner's library rather than sending it to the graveyard. This unique mechanic adds a layer of psychological tension, as the opponent retains the card but loses immediate access to it. The Strixhaven era marked a significant shift in the game's lore, focusing on magical academies and student dynamics, which is reflected in the card's design and flavor text. While the flavor text hints at forgotten memories, the card itself remains a sharp tool for strategic play. Collectors often seek out cards from this release due to the high-quality production values of the Mystical Archive. Whether you are an investor looking at the broader market for Strixhaven cards or a player aiming to enhance your deck's control capabilities, Memory Lapse offers both aesthetic and mechanical appeal. Its status as a rare card within the set ensures it holds a place of respect among Magic: The Gathering enthusiasts.
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The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
The core identity of the card within the set.
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Memory Lapse
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Kristina Collantes
Card Stock
English
{1}{U}
Instant
U
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
Counter target spell. If that spell is countered this way, put it on top of its owner's library instead of into that player's graveyard.
"Where do our forgotten thoughts go? I knew once, but I can't remember." —Director Taiva, journal entry
FAQ
Memory Lapse has a mana cost of {1}{U}, requiring one generic mana and one blue mana to cast. This gives it a total mana value of 2, making it an efficient instant-speed interaction in blue decks.
Unlike spells that send countered cards to the graveyard, Memory Lapse places the countered spell on top of its owner's library. This mechanic allows the opponent to potentially reuse the spell on a future turn, adding a strategic layer to the interaction.
Memory Lapse is card number 16 from the Strixhaven Mystical Archive set, released in 2021. It carries the set code STA and is classified as a rare card within this academic-themed expansion.
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