Fourth Edition - Magic: the Gathering

Fourth Edition, released in April 1995, represents a pivotal moment in the history of Magic: the Gathering. As the first core set to increase the card count to 378 cards, it introduced many players to iconic mechanics while retiring some of the more powerful cards from previous iterations. On this page, collectors and players can find everything from individual Singles to rare sealed products like Booster Boxes and Starter Decks.

A legacy of iconic white-bordered cards

This expansion is well-known for its clean white borders and the inclusion of staple cards that defined early gameplay. Within this collection, you can find legendary cards such as Land Tax, Sylvan Library, and Mana Vault. While it removed the original dual lands found in earlier core sets, it solidified the color identity of Magic: the Gathering by focusing on balanced play. Collectors often seek out Complete Sets to own a piece of TCG history, while players look for specific versions of cards for their Commander or Legacy decks.

Guide to choosing Fourth Edition products

Selecting the right items depends on whether you are collecting for value or building a deck. If you are looking for specific cards to play, browsing the 378 available Singles is the most direct path. For those who enjoy the thrill of the opening, original Boosters provide a nostalgic experience. When purchasing, always check the card condition, as Fourth Edition cards vary from heavily played to near mint given their age. Utilizing the CardTrader Zero service allows you to combine multiple listings from different sellers into a single shipment, which is particularly useful when hunting for multiple rare components of this set.

Frequently asked questions

How can I identify Fourth Edition cards?

Fourth Edition cards are characterized by white borders and a copyright line at the bottom that includes the year 1995. They do not have an expansion symbol on the right side of the card.

Is Fourth Edition legal in tournament play?

Yes, cards from Fourth Edition are legal in Eternal formats like Vintage and Legacy, as well as in Commander, provided they are not on the specific format’s banned list.

What is the difference between Fourth Edition and Revised Edition?

Fourth Edition cards generally have darker, more saturated ink than Revised Edition and include a 1995 copyright date, whereas Revised cards have no copyright date and lighter colors.

Are there complete sets available for purchase?

Yes, you can often find Complete Sets which include one of every card from the 378-card expansion, making them ideal for high-level collectors.