Grading
Overall 9.5 GEM MINT
Centering 9.5
Corners 9.5
Edges 9.5
Surface 9.5
Rarity & Collectability
Alpha Lightning Bolt was originally in the common slot so there were about 16,000 copies printed in the first edition of Magic. More details on the predicted print runs can be found here. Because of the higher common print run there are 64 copies of this card in BGS 9.5 Gem Mint, but only 16 copies in Quad or higher. Despite not being in particularly low population, Lightning Bolt is still an extremely sought after card due to its playability and overall influence on the game.
This particular copy of Alpha Lightning Bolt was graded in Quad 9.5 subscores although the centering score is on the generous side. What makes this copy so special though is that it was signed on the case by the late Christopher Rush who passed away in 2016. It's not known how many case signed BGS 9.5 copies there are in existence but is likely in the single digits. To have an Alpha card signed by Christopher Rush is already a highly collectible piece and to have it be one of the 16 copies in Quad Gem Mint condition is what sets this card apart.
Impressions & Artwork
Most modern red cards have artwork that uses a heavy dose of red-orange-yellow colors. 30 years later, the iconic artwork by Christopher Rush (who also painted Black Lotus) still stands the test of time by depicting a blue white flash of energy illuminating a dark sky and splitting a barren mountain range. The painting is simple, balanced and unforgettable.
Usage & Gameplay
To this day, the lightning bolt is still one of the strongest red direct damage cards ever printed. At an unbelievable value of 3 damage for 1 mana with no restrictions on the target and at instant speed, this card is incredibly versatile. It serves as early game defense against aggressive decks, can set the tone when used in aggressive red decks and is an all around incredible card that red spells are still benchmarked against today. So much so that it is considered the top red burn spell that was ever printed to date in this ranking.
Nostalgia
Everyone that played the game in its infancy remembers blasting a small creature with lightning bolt. How many white/black knights, savannah lions or birds of paradise were killed with a turn one bolt on kitchen tables across the US? I used to have a playset of 4 Unlimited Edition lightning bolts that I regret selling in the late 90's. Picking up the ultimate version of this card (Alpha Quad Gem Mint, case signed) is my penance for this mistake.
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