Fans of Magic: The Gathering raised over $2.1 million for the American Cancer Society to honor the late Sheldon Menery, creator of the massively popular Commander format of Magic: The Gathering. Menery passed last year due to cancer. According to an ACS spokesperson, those funds will be “a transformational support in advancing ACS’s mission, in elevating cancer prevention, early detection, and ensuring that every individual — no matter where they live or their ability to pay — has access to vital cancer screenings and care.”
In collaboration with the ACS, the Secret Lair — Hasbro’s MTG brand which produces limited edition prints called “drops” — created Sheldon’s Spellbook, a seven card drop to honor Menery and his contributions to the form. The drop’s product page states that Menery helped develop the drop prior to his passing, selecting which cards would be included and assisting on the art descriptions for each. The drop contained cards Menery himself designed like Inkshield, his signature card Ruhan, and other format staples like Teferi’s Protection, according to Secret Lair.
“This collaboration not only reflects the spirit of someone who had a profound impact, but also gives back in a way that can change lives,” said Dave Lew, Chief Marketing Officer of the American Cancer Society. “We are immensely grateful to Hasbro, Wizards of the Coast, and the entire Magic: The Gathering community for their dedication and generosity.”
This announcement comes amidst a particularly turbulent time for the Commander format, as the fan-driven play style shifted hands from a community-driven organization to the custodianship of Wizards of the Coast, Magic’s corporate owner. While fans have concerns over the future of the format, this fundraiser came before Commander switched hands, and gives a nod to one of the creators who made Magic what it is today.
“Wizards of the Coast and Hasbro were honored to build on our partnership with ACS and we’re heartened by the outstanding response to the Drop. It’s reflective of our generous Magic community, and a testament to Sheldon’s legendary impact on the game,” said Ken Troop, Magic: The Gathering’s Senior Vice President and Global Play Lead.
The Sheldon’s Spellbook drop was available from February to March of 2024, with the ACS receiving 50% of the product price. Two versions of the drop were produced, with the Foil edition selling for $49.99 and its Non-Foil counterpart $39.99.
