Circle of Protection: Blue

Circle of Protection: Blue was originally released in the Limited Edition Alpha set in 1993, designed by Richard Garfield as part of a cycle of enchantments intended to provide players with defensive counter-strategies against specific color-based threats. The card illustrates a fundamental mechanic of early Magic: The Gathering, where resource management and color identity were prioritized to create distinct tactical advantages on the battlefield.

This specific version, from the International Collectors' Edition released in 1993, was designed as a non-tournament-legal product intended for collectors and demonstration purposes. Artist Dameon Willich provided the illustration, utilizing a clean, symbolic aesthetic that defined much of the early game's visual identity. Because these cards feature gold-bordered backs and square corners, they are distinguished from standard play sets, serving primarily as historical artifacts of the game's initial expansion into international markets.