All About MTG Proxy Cards: Frequently Asked Questions

Crosby Jeffler
4 min readJan 2, 2024

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MTG Cards

Welcome to our FAQ about MTG Proxy Cards. Magic: The Gathering (MTG) is a popular collectible card game enjoyed by players all around the world. Proxy cards have been the subject of debate and discussion among the MTG community for years. This FAQ aims to provide clarity on various aspects related to their legality and usage.

Whether you’re an experienced MTG player looking for information on tournament rules or a novice seeking to understand the differences between proxies and counterfeit cards, you’ll find answers to your questions here. We’ll explore the regulations concerning proxy cards, their role in sanctioned events, and how to distinguish them from genuine MTG cards.

Let’s jump into the world of MTG proxies and gain a better understanding of their place in the Magic: The Gathering universe.

Are proxy basic lands legal in Magic The Gathering?

Proxy basic lands are only legal if a judge has issued them to replace a card that was damaged during play. Player-made proxies and proxies issued for any other reason are considered illegal. Altered cards may be legal, but it ultimately depends on the approval of the head judge of the event.

Are basic land proxies legal?

Proxies (creating a card out of something else) are not legal in sanctioned events. Altered cards (changing the art while keeping the card’s identity intact) can be allowed at the discretion of the head judge. The original card name must still be visible, and the altered card must be indistinguishable from the rest of your deck.

Is it illegal to print your own Magic cards?

Printing your own Magic cards is not illegal as long as they are not used in sanctioned events or tournaments. However, using self-printed cards in such events can lead to disqualification and venue ejection.

Are MTG proxies illegal?

Generally, proxies are not legal in official MTG gameplay, although their legality can be a gray area depending on how they are made. It’s important to distinguish between counterfeit and proxy cards, as they are not technically the same, but both can raise legal concerns.

Are proxies legal in MTG tournaments?

Using proxy cards in sanctioned Magic tournaments is considered cheating and against the rules. Whether you are trying to pass off replica cards as authentic or use them for personal play in sanctioned events, it is not allowed and can result in penalties if discovered.

Can you use proxy cards in MTG?

Rules regarding proxy cards can vary and may be determined by player agreements or tournament hosts. In DCI-sanctioned Magic tournaments, proxy cards are only allowed to replace cards damaged during play, with specific guidelines. However, many kitchen table play groups have no issues with players using proxy cards. Consult with your play group if you want to use MTG proxies in games.

Where can you get MTG proxy cards?

The simplest way is to use a sharpy to mark a basic land as the card you want to proxy. You can also print MTG proxies through various websites or at home if you have access to thicker cardstock and a printer that can handle it.

Some people make stickers custom made to look like Magic cards. Finally, there are sellers on Etsy and other websites that offer proxy cards for sale.

What are MTG Alters?

MTG Alters, or altered cards refer to customized or modified MTG cards that have undergone artistic transformations while retaining their original gameplay text and identity. These alterations can include changes to the card’s artwork, border, or other visual elements. Altered cards are typically created by skilled artists or members of the MTG community as a means of personalizing and enhancing the aesthetics of their cards. While the appearance of the card is altered, its functionality in the game remains intact, allowing players to use them in official MTG events with the approval of the head judge. Altered cards can be highly collectible and serve as unique expressions of creativity within the Magic: The Gathering community.

Do CEDH tournaments allow proxies?

In some Commander (CEDH) tournaments, proxies may be allowed. However, this can vary depending on the tournament rules and the organizers’ decisions.

What are the rules for proxies in Magic: The Gathering?

Players are not allowed to create their proxies for use in DCI events; only the Head Judge can create a proxy when necessary. The proxy must be clearly and conspicuously marked as such and included in the player’s deck.

How to tell the difference between a proxy and an actual MTG card?

The rosette test is one method to distinguish between a proxy and a genuine card. When examined closely under high magnification, fake cards often have a different rosette pattern.

Are MTG unsanctioned cards legal?

Unsanctioned cards in Magic: The Gathering are silver-bordered and not legal in regular tournament play. They are designed for casual, fun, and often unconventional gameplay.

Can you make a living selling MTG cards?

It is possible to make money by buying and selling Magic: The Gathering cards. Some individuals have opened stores, organized events, and built websites to generate income from the trading card game.

Are proxies legal in the modern format?

In sanctioned Modern MTG events, proxies are generally not allowed unless explicitly specified otherwise. Some events may offer proxies for expensive cards like the Power Nine in Vintage, but this is rare in the Modern format.

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