Nemesis set symbol
Identify Nemesis by the unique set mark shown here (NEM). Older frames may place related marks differently, but the information line still carries the modern set code when present.
Set code
nem
Released
Feb 2000
Cards
143
Type
Expansion
Lookalikes & traps
Borderless and showcase frames of Nemesis / Parallax Wave still need the NEM line; a fancy frame is not a different set by itself. Also watch foil vs nonfoil: sheen does not change which set Nemesis is.
Confirm after the icon
Bottom information line should show collector number + set code NEM (and usually a C/U/R/M rarity letter). On Nemesis / Parallax Wave, mismatch between listing title and NEM is the usual bait-and-switch.
How to identify Nemesis cards
- 1
Locate the Nemesis set mark (NEM) before you trust the card name — reprints reuse names across products.
- 2
Apply Exodus-era color rules only: no mythic orange on NEM cards from 2000.
- 3
Verify NEM on the bottom line; listings that only show the card name are where Nemesis get mixed with siblings.
- 4
If icon and NEM still disagree with a marketplace title, scan with Tappr rather than guessing from art.
Rarity by symbol color
Exodus-through-pre-mythic rules: black common, silver uncommon, gold rare on the Nemesis symbol. Mythic orange does not apply yet (Shards of Alara, 2008). Purple timeshifted is a Time Spiral-family exception, not a generic NEM rule.
Legend shows the modern post-Exodus palette. Pre-Exodus sets and special rarities (for example Time Spiral purple timeshifted) follow the rarity reading above — not this swatch row alone.
FAQ
What does the Nemesis set symbol look like?
Identify Nemesis by the unique set mark shown here (NEM). Older frames may place related marks differently, but the information line still carries the modern set code when present. Reprints of Nemesis / Parallax Wave under other codes keep different glyphs — match the icon, then NEM.
What is the Nemesis set code?
The set code is NEM. It appears with the collector number on modern cards. If you see a different code, you are not holding the Nemesis printing even when the name matches.
How do I read rarity on a Nemesis card?
Exodus-through-pre-mythic rules: black common, silver uncommon, gold rare on the Nemesis symbol. Mythic orange does not apply yet (Shards of Alara, 2008). Purple timeshifted is a Time Spiral-family exception, not a generic NEM rule.
How do I confirm a Nemesis card quickly?
Icon match → rarity reading for this era → NEM + collector number. Borderless and showcase frames of Nemesis / Parallax Wave still need the NEM line; a fancy frame is not a different set by itself.. Tappr can finish the printing match when the listing is ambiguous.
Identify Nemesis cards instantly
Get Tappr free. Identify any Magic: The Gathering card and see what it is worth in seconds.
No credit card. No signup. Just scan.
Scan to download
Point your phone camera at a code
- Free on iOS & Android
- No account required