The 1997 Magic: The Gathering Tempest artifact Grindstone (Card #290). This rare card is a cornerstone of mill strategies and vintage TCG collecting.
Grindstone
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Tempest
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Description
Released in 1997 as part of the Tempest expansion, Grindstone is a single-mana artifact that fundamentally altered gameplay dynamics by introducing the mill strategy to Magic: The Gathering. As card number 290 in the set, it represents a pivotal moment in the game's history where players discovered the power of discarding opponents' libraries rather than reducing their life total directly. The strategic potential of Grindstone lies in its ability to force target players to mill cards from the top of their libraries. When two cards of the same color are discarded in this process, the effect repeats, creating a snowballing impact that can quickly deplete an opponent's resources. This mechanic introduced a new layer of complexity to deck building and gameplay, encouraging players to consider card advantage and library manipulation in ways previously unseen. The flavor text, referencing the character Crovax, adds a narrative element that resonates with the game's rich lore, enhancing the card's appeal beyond its mechanical utility. For collectors, Grindstone is a sought-after piece of Magic: The Gathering history. Its rarity within the Tempest set makes it a valuable addition to any vintage collection. The card's enduring legacy is evident in its continued relevance in various formats and its status as a key component in many competitive decks. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to complete a set or a new collector interested in the evolution of Magic: The Gathering, Grindstone offers a tangible connection to the game's past and its ongoing innovation., you can find this iconic card among a diverse selection of trading card game collectibles, ensuring that every enthusiast has the opportunity to own a piece of this legendary artifact.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
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Featured Subject
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Featured
Grindstone
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Rare
Greg Simanson
Card Stock
English
{1}
Artifact
Card Text
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{3}, {T}: Target player mills two cards. If two cards that share a color were milled this way, repeat this process.
"Memory is a burden that wears at the soul as weather wears at stone." —Crovax

















