Grading
Overall PSA 10 GEM MINT
This particular copy is graded a perfect PSA 10 Gem Mint, but like many other high graded cards has some flaws. This copy has a slight Top-Bottom centering misalignment and also minor upper right corner wear whitening from the cutting process.
Rarity & Collectability
The alpha Mox Pearl is not particularly difficult to find in BGS Gem Mint or higher with 26 copies graded, 5 copies graded at BGS 10 and 6 copies in PSA 10.
Given that the color white is ironically the weakest color in Magic, it isn't surprising that the Mox Pearl is often considered the lowest value Mox.
Impressions & Artwork
Although I do like the art of the Mox Pearl, I must admit it isn't my favorite of Dan Frazier's creations. I think what it lacks is diversity of color, with the majority of the emphasis on the pure white pearl on gray background. I think that a gentle hint of pink could have brought the card to life even more. It is also one of the very few cards that I think a white border from the Unlimited edition matches the card better.
Usage & Gameplay
Despite being the weakest of the Moxen, it is still part of the Power 9 because of its reusable mana ramp source that costs nothing to bring into play. It is also used to cast some of the most iconic white cards in the game's history: Serra Angel, Balance, Disenchant and Wrath of God.
Nostalgia
This was the only piece of Power 9 that I owned as a teenager. I remember trading 6 revised dual lands and some cash to the local game store Club Bub to obtain a near mint unlimited copy of the card, which at the time was worth about $100. I later sold it on eBay for about $300 right after high school to fund a car project and have regretted that everyday since.
For my mom's birthday one year, I spent a day and night sprawled on the linoleum kitchen floor sketching a pencil drawing of the Mox Pearl. If I ever come across that sketch, I'll be sure to share it here.
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