# 1997 Magic: The Gathering World Championship Decks 1997 #js45

> The Contagion card from Magic: The Gathering's 1997 World Championship Decks offers a unique gameplay mechanic for vintage TCG collectors.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 1997
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: World Championship Decks 1997
- **Card number**: #js45
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

Released in 1997 as part of the World Championship Decks series, the Contagion card (js45) holds a distinct place in the history of Magic: The Gathering. This design choice reflects the strategic depth and resource management complexity that defined the early years of the trading card game. For collectors, the World Championship Decks set represents a pivotal era where official pre-constructed decks became available, offering a tangible connection to the game's competitive roots. The Contagion card, with its black mana identity and five mana value, serves as a functional piece of this historical context. Its inclusion in the World Championship Decks highlights the importance of black strategies, particularly those focused on removing opposing threats or controlling the board state. Collecting cards from this release appeals to enthusiasts interested in the evolution of Magic's card design and the narrative of its early competitive scene. The card's ability to distribute -2/-1 counters among target creatures makes it a versatile tool in any black deck, illustrating the tactical variety available to players during this period. Whether you are building a vintage collection or researching the development of the game's mechanics, the Contagion card provides valuable insight into the strategic landscape of 1997. By focusing on the identity and context of cards like Contagion, collectors can better understand the evolution of the game and the significance of each release in the broader community of Magic enthusiasts.

## FAQ

### What is the mana cost of Contagion in Magic: The Gathering?

Contagion has a converted mana cost of five, consisting of three generic mana and two black mana. However, its unique ability allows you to pay one life and exile a black card from your hand as an alternative cost.

### What set is the Contagion card js45 from?

The card js45 is from the World Championship Decks set, abbreviated as WC97, which was released in 1997. It is an Uncommon rarity card within that specific release.

### What does the Contagion card do in gameplay?

When cast, Contagion allows you to distribute two -1/-1 counters among one or two target creatures. This effect is useful for weakening multiple opposing threats or focusing damage on a single key creature.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.