Circle of Protection: Red, card number 13 from the historic 1993 Unlimited Edition of Magic: The Gathering.
Circle of Protection: Red
1993 • Magic: The Gathering • Unlimited Edition
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Market & Price History
| Condition | Value | Source | Trend | Price Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$1.22 | Guide Estimate | +4.3% | ||
- $1.22
- Source
- Guide Estimate
- Trend
- +4.3%
- Price Details
30-day Price History
Raw / Ungraded
TCGplayer Market (reference) · Guide Estimate evidence · captured Nov 10, 2026
Description
Circle of Protection: Red stands as a cornerstone of early Magic: The Gathering strategy, originating from the Unlimited Edition released in 1993. Designed by Mark Tedin, the card's visual identity has become synonymous with the game's foundational era, appealing to both nostalgic hobbyists and serious vintage collectors. As a Common rarity card within the 2ED set, it was printed in significant quantities, yet its historical significance remains undiminished. The card’s primary function was to disrupt red-based spells, forcing opponents to adapt their strategies. This interplay between offense and defense defined the early competitive landscape of the game. Collectors often seek this card to complete base sets or to appreciate the evolution of game design during Magic’s initial years. The Unlimited Edition is particularly notable for its distinct card back design, which differentiates it from the earlier Alpha release. For investors and hobbyists alike, cards from this period represent the genesis of a global phenomenon. Owning a piece of this history involves more than just the physical card; it is about connecting with the roots of tactical trading card gaming. Whether you are building a vintage portfolio or simply appreciate the art of early game mechanics, Circle of Protection: Red offers a tangible link to the beginning of the Magic: The Gathering journey.
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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
Circle of Protection: Red
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
Rarity, print treatment, and game-specific stats for this card.
Common
Mark Tedin
Card Stock
English
{1}{W}
Enchantment
W
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
{1}: The next time a red source of your choice would deal damage to you this turn, prevent that damage.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Circle of Protection: Red do in gameplay?
This enchantment allows you to pay one white mana to prevent all damage from one chosen red source for the rest of the turn. It was a key defensive tool in the early years of the game.
Is this card part of the Alpha or Unlimited Edition?
Circle of Protection: Red appears in both sets, but the card number 13 specifically identifies it within the Unlimited Edition (2ED) released in 1993.
Who illustrated the original art for this card?
The original artwork for this 1993 release was created by Mark Tedin, whose style defined the aesthetic of Magic: The Gathering's first expansions.
Cards Named Circle of Protection: Red
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