Buy lists are a bit tricky with Alpha. It seems some shops are reluctant to increase their buy prices as cards from this set disappear. Card Kingdom has been the best one to react, but even they have been slow in moving. In the case of Alpha, I think you may have better luck waiting patiently for the eBay or TCGplayer sale if you want a higher price.

Of course, buylists will move EVENTUALLY…it just may take some time.

I definitely think Alpha belongs in every serious MTG portfolio. For players and people looking to flip cards quickly, Alpha isn’t really an optimal vehicle. But if you like to hold cards for long-term appreciation, then Alpha should definitely be prioritized. The cards are just SO rare and SO iconic in nature.

As for retail prices – if you can find the more desirable cards at retail prices, then you should be snap-buying! That’s because retail prices haven’t caught up with market price in many cases. I have bought Alpha cards from SCG and CK numerous times now, only to flip a handful for immediate profit on eBay or Twitter. I wouldn’t chase too far on some of this stuff, but if you can find a deal I would definitely jump on it.

Also – do you think there’s merit in exposing a longterm portfolio to a healthy amount of Alpha, regardless of condition, at current retail prices?