The LRW-56 version of Cryptic Command from Magic: The Gathering's 2020 The List set. This blue instant offers four distinct strategic options for collectors.
Cryptic Command
2020 • Magic: The Gathering • The List
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Market & Price History
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$7.29 | Guide Estimate | +3.8% | ||
- $7.29
- Source
- Guide Estimate
- Trend
- +3.8%
- Price Details
30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Sep 22, 2026
Description
Cryptic Command stands as one of the most versatile spells in Magic: The Gathering history. Printed as card LRW-56 in the 2020 The List set, this rare blue instant carries the mana cost of one generic mana and three blue mana. Designed by Wayne England, the card features a layout typical of the era, presenting a powerful tool for players who value flexibility in their deck construction. The card’s primary appeal lies in its unique ability to offer four different effects, allowing the player to choose any two. These options include countering a target spell, returning a permanent to its owner's hand, tapping all creatures controlled by opponents, or drawing a card. This multi-effect design makes it a staple in competitive play and a favorite among collectors who appreciate strategic depth. Collecting Magic: The Gathering cards involves tracking down specific printings and set codes. The LRW-56 designation identifies this printing within the broader context of the game's extensive history. For investors and hobbyists, cards like Cryptic Command represent not just gameplay utility but also a tangible piece of the game's evolving landscape. The combination of its iconic status and its specific set origin makes it a noteworthy item for any serious collection. Understanding the nuances of set codes and card numbers helps collectors navigate the vast market of trading cards. The List set serves as a unique repository for these special releases, offering a curated experience for those seeking specific variants or rarities. Whether you are building a collection focused on strategic play or historical significance, this card offers a compelling entry point into the world of Magic: The Gathering collecting.
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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
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Featured
Cryptic Command
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Rare
Wayne England
Card Stock
English
{1}{U}{U}{U}
Instant
U
Card Text
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Choose two — • Counter target spell. • Return target permanent to its owner's hand. • Tap all creatures your opponents control. • Draw a card.










