Reserved List Cards

Cards that Wizards of the Coast has promised to never reprint. Track prices of these collectible investments.

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Price Movers USD/EUR Arbitrage Reserved List

What is the Reserved List?

The Reserved List is a collection of Magic: The Gathering cards that Wizards of the Coast has promised to never reprint. Created in 1996 after concerns about reprints devaluing collectible cards, it includes iconic cards like the Power Nine, dual lands, and other powerful early Magic cards.

Because these cards cannot be reprinted, their supply is fixed, making them attractive to collectors and investors. However, this also means competitive formats that allow Reserved List cards (like Legacy and Vintage) have high barriers to entry.

Note: Prices shown are market averages from Scryfall. Actual prices vary by condition, edition, and seller.

Methodology: Prices are market averages sourced from Scryfall API, updated weekly. Total market value represents the sum of all Reserved List card market prices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MTG Reserved List?
The Reserved List is a commitment by Wizards of the Coast to never reprint certain Magic: The Gathering cards. Created in 1996 after Chronicles reprints angered collectors, it includes 572 cards from Alpha through Urza's Destiny. Notable cards include the Power Nine (Black Lotus, Ancestral Recall, etc.), original dual lands, and other iconic early Magic cards.
Why are Reserved List cards so expensive?
Reserved List cards have a fixed, declining supply -- they can never be reprinted, and copies are lost or damaged over time. Combined with ongoing demand from Legacy and Vintage players, Commander enthusiasts, and collectors/investors, this creates consistent upward price pressure. Cards like Black Lotus, Underground Sea, and Gaea's Cradle command premium prices because no new copies will ever enter the market.
Will Wizards ever abolish the Reserved List?
Wizards of the Coast has repeatedly stated they have no plans to abolish the Reserved List. While there is ongoing community debate, the company views the promise as a binding commitment to collectors. Some players speculate it could change, but there is no official indication this will happen. The Reserved List has survived multiple leadership changes at Wizards and Hasbro.
Which Reserved List cards are the best investments?
The original dual lands (Underground Sea, Volcanic Island, Tropical Island, etc.) are considered the most stable Reserved List investments because they see consistent play in Legacy and Commander. The Power Nine have the highest ceiling but also the highest entry cost. Mid-range picks like Gaea's Cradle, Lion's Eye Diamond, and City of Traitors offer strong demand with more accessible price points.
How many cards are on the Reserved List?
There are 572 cards on the Reserved List, spanning sets from Alpha/Beta/Unlimited through Urza's Destiny (1999). The list includes cards of all rarities -- commons, uncommons, rares, and mythic rares. While many are low-value bulk, the high-end cards account for a significant portion of Magic's total secondary market value.

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