Technically, the "first rookie" title is a split between distribution and set chronology: while the Luffy PR001 (Pirate's Ambition) was the very first card to reach the public via the October 2005 issue of Shonen Jump (hitting newsstands in mid-September), the CH001 is universally recognized as the true "Origin" card of the game
Cannot be optionally engaged
Clans, in order: 1
Nicol Bolas, the Ravager / Nicol Bolas, the Arisen I loved playing with Nicol Bolas, the Ravager while it was in Standard and still enjoy tinkering around with it in Brawl and Commander
The art deco aesthetic, the overarching story about the failed Phyrexian invasion Its all amazing
Cards in general from Alpha, Beta, and Unlimited found in grading-worthy condition are already exceedingly rare, so a copy of Magics most iconic card, from its first set that is in perfect condition is where the the hefty price-tag comes from.