Limited Edition Alpha
1 min read
Alpha Set Overview #
Limited Edition Alpha was the first-ever Magic: The Gathering set. It came out on August 5, 1993. It contained 295 cards. This set introduced the concept of lands, creatures, spells, and artifacts. It laid the groundwork for all future Magic sets. Many of these cards became iconic, including the “Power Nine” (like Black Lotus and Ancestral Recall). These cards were very strong and remain legendary in the game’s history.
Alpha Set Info #
| Set | Set Symbol | Symbol Description | Set Code | Pre-release Date | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limited Edition Alpha | None | None | LEA | None | August 5, 1993 |
Alpha Card Counts #
| Total Cards | Common | Uncommon | Rare | Mythic Rare | Basic Land | Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 295 | 74 | 95 | 116 | — | 10 | — |
More About Limited Edition Alpha #
Alpha had some unique quirks. The card corners were more rounded than later printings, so it’s easy to spot an Alpha card. Some cards had wording that was unclear or confusing by today’s standards. This was normal at the time, since it was the very first attempt at making a collectible card game. Alpha also had simple mechanics: Flying, trample, banding, and a few others. Most keywords we know today did not exist yet.
Because Alpha was printed in limited numbers, it quickly sold out. Collectors value Alpha cards highly, especially those from the Power Nine. Even basic lands from Alpha can be special because of their original art and the black border. Many players seek these first-edition cards for both their rarity and history.
The set’s theme was not fully defined like modern sets. Instead, it mixed fantasy tropes drawn from many sources, including wizards, dragons, and creatures from myth. The art style was also diverse. Different artists brought unique takes on each card. Today, Alpha remains a collector’s dream. Cards in good condition often fetch high prices. Despite its age, Alpha set the stage for what Magic would become. The core concepts of resource management, strategy, and deck building all started here.
Black Lotus
Black Lotus is the most iconic card in Magic history. It costs {0} and can be sacrificed to add three mana of any color. This allows for powerful plays very early in the game. Alpha versions are extremely rare and valuable, often selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Ancestral Recall
Ancestral Recall costs {U} and lets a player draw three cards. It can also force an opponent to draw. Its efficiency and power make it one of the most sought-after cards from Alpha.
Time Walk costs {1}{U} and lets you take an extra turn. The simplicity and power of gaining another turn for just two mana make it one of the most broken cards in Magic’s early days.
Mox Sapphire
Mox Sapphire is part of the Power Nine. It costs {0} and taps for {U}. This mana acceleration gives players access to powerful spells much faster, making it highly prized and valuable.
