A Magic: The Gathering artist proof Black Lotus card CGC 8.5 signed by artist Christopher Rush sold for $615,000 on Friday, March 24, 2023, via Heritage. This signed copy of the Black Lotus, considered the pinnacle of Magic collecting, now holds the record for most valuable Magic card sold at auction.

This was the first time that this particular card was offered at auction. The Black Lotus was made in a smaller print run and the signed copies are even rarer, making it highly coveted by collectors.

“The Black Lotus remains the most desired Magic: The Gathering card in the world,” Heritage’s Trading Card Games Consignment Director Jesus Garcia said. “And it’s certainly no surprise this spectacular copy is now the auction record-holder, given that it’s signed by the artist who created it. We’re proud to have been a part of the remarkable result achieved for this – dare I say it? – magical offering.”

The card was formerly owned by Rush’s former agent and friend, Jeff Ferreira. He offered his collection of trading cards in a special signature auction at Heritage that concluded on March 25.