Magic: The Gathering Playmat Finance 101

P​laymats are a ubiquitous accessory in collectible trading card games. Players use playmats to showcase their favorite artwork or interests, protect their cards, and even highlight tournament successes Typically, a playmat for the Magic: The Gathering trading card game measures approximately 24 inches by 13.5 inches. Also, MTG playmats are made by Ultra Pro, whom has an exclusivity agreement with Wizards of the Coast for the game. Any artists, retailers, or tournament organizers interested in offering playmats displaying MTG artwork will need to partner with Ultra Pro on their creation.

New MTG playmats are available for purchase from many retailers and online stores for around $25 each. However, not all playmats are always in stock and some sell out quickly due to limited quantities. When a playmat is no longer available for sale, players often turn to the secondary market to purchase one. Sometimes demand for certain playmats can drive their price points to $50, $75, and even $100, well above their original purchase price.

In my TCGplayer Infinite article, An Introduction to Playmat Finance, I discuss several factors that influence a playmats average market value. I also share tips on how to evaluate the value of a playmat using historical and like-item sales data. If you want to learn more about playmats and their potential value, this article is for you.