Scalding Tongs is a rare artifact card from the 1997 Magic: The Gathering Tempest set, identified by card number 307 and illustrated by Randy Gallegos.
1997 • Magic: The Gathering • Tempest
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| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$0.47 | Guide Estimate | -16.1% | ||
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 4, 2026
Scalding Tongs holds a distinct place in the history of Magic: The Gathering as a key artifact from the 1997 Tempest expansion. As card number 307 in the set, this rare artifact requires {2} mana to play and features iconic artwork by Randy Gallegos. Collectors familiar with the Tempest era will recognize the card's unique ability to deal damage to opponents or planeswalkers when the holder has three or fewer cards in hand during their upkeep. This mechanic made the card a functional piece of gameplay that resonated with players and collectors alike. The Tempest set was a pivotal release for Magic: The Gathering, introducing new mechanics and a cohesive design language that defined a generation of play. Scalding Tongs exemplifies the era's focus on interactive artifacts that influence the board state. For those building a Tempest collection, this card is often sought after to complete the set or to add to a collection of rare artifacts. Its status as a rare card within the Tempest subset adds to its appeal among hobbyists who value the visual and mechanical identity of the era. Whether you are a long-time player reminiscing about the Tempest block or a new collector exploring the roots of Magic's artifact design, Scalding Tongs offers a tangible connection to the game's rich history. For investors and completists, adding this card number to their portfolio provides a piece of Magic's legacy from 1997.
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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
Scalding Tongs
Game
Magic: The Gathering
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Rare
Randy Gallegos
Card Stock
English
{2}
Artifact
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
At the beginning of your upkeep, if you have three or fewer cards in hand, this artifact deals 1 damage to target opponent or planeswalker.
"This has nothing to do with what you know and everything to do with what I wish." —Volrath
FAQ
Scalding Tongs is from the Tempest expansion, which was released in 1997 for Magic: The Gathering. It is identified by the set code TMP and card number 307.
This artifact costs {2} mana to cast. Its ability triggers at the beginning of your upkeep if you have three or fewer cards in hand, allowing you to deal 1 damage to any target opponent or planeswalker.
The artwork for Scalding Tongs was created by Randy Gallegos, whose style is well-regarded among collectors of the Tempest era.
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