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Mile High Card Company, the renowned hub for vintage sports cards and collectibles, has launched its coveted Extra Innings Auction right after the holiday weekend. This enticing auction, which began on Tuesday, May 28, features a stunning array of over 1,200 lots, inviting collectors of all budgets and preferences to join the bidding frenzy in pursuit of timeless treasures.

At the heart of this auction lie some exceptional pieces that are sure to captivate seasoned collectors and enthusiasts alike. Standout items include a PSA 9 graded 1973 Topps Mike Schmidt rookie card, a 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card graded PSA 6 (MC), and a rare T206 Ty Cobb Portrait card boasting a striking red background with an SGC 3 rating – offering a glimpse into the rich history of sports card collecting.

Adding to the allure are complete and partial sets on offer, such as the 1956 Topps set, which boasts a plethora of graded cards, enriching the collection with variety and depth. Fans of baseball legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig will also find treasures from the 1933 Goudey series, a 1950 Bowman Jackie Robinson card graded SGC 5 EX, and a 1952 Topps Willie Mays card graded SGC 5 up for grabs.

The auction transcends eras, featuring stars from different time periods, including a 1954 Topps Henry Aaron card graded PSA 3, and a 1961 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded PSA 7. Modern collectors are not left out, with items like a 2000 Bowman Tom Brady ROY Promotion card graded PSA 6, and sealed Pokémon Base Set boxes from 1999 and 2000 making an appearance, catering to a diverse range of interests.

Collectors have until Thursday, June 6, to participate in this thrilling auction that promises an unparalleled opportunity to own rare and sought-after pieces that narrate the compelling history of sports memorabilia and trading cards. Moreover, the anticipation mounts as Mile High Card Company prepares for its upcoming major catalog auction, set to entice collectors later this summer, while also welcoming consignments from interested parties eager to share their prized collectibles with fellow enthusiasts.

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Topps is making history with its latest collaboration, teaming up with artist and former MLB player Micah Johnson to introduce a groundbreaking series of baseball cards paying homage to the Negro Leagues. This unprecedented project marks the debut of the Topps Negro Leagues Baseball Card Set, a collection that Johnson proudly considers one of his greatest achievements in the realm of art and sports.

The unveiling of the inaugural card featuring the legendary Satchel Paige took place in Kansas City as part of the “Road to Rickwood” initiative. Leading up to the much-anticipated Rickwood Classic, a new card will be revealed weekly, building anticipation for the special MLB game scheduled at Rickwood Field on June 20, 2024. This event not only celebrates the rich history of the oldest professional ballpark in the U.S. but also pays tribute to the Birmingham Black Barons, the former residents of the iconic stadium.

To further elevate the significance of this card series, 24-foot tall replicas of each card will be prominently displayed at various MLB ballparks across the country, ensuring that the legacy of the Negro Leagues and its iconic players is honored on a grand scale.

Micah Johnson, the talented artist behind these exquisite portraits, has seamlessly transitioned from a career in professional baseball to a renowned artist dedicated to inspiring and empowering through his craft. His intricate hand-drawn renditions of Negro Leagues legends showcase not only his artistic prowess but also his deep respect for the historical significance of these players.

In addition to the base cards featuring these remarkable illustrations, collectors are in for a treat with the opportunity to acquire limited edition Numbered Parallel Cards in each print run. These exclusive variations, such as Silver Border (/99), Blue Border (/49), Purple Border (/25), Red Border (/10), Orange Border (/5), and Gold Border (/1), add a touch of rarity and exclusivity to these already coveted collector’s items, elevating the excitement of collecting and owning a piece of baseball history.

Beyond serving as valuable collectibles, these cards serve as a tangible celebration of the enduring legacy of the Negro Leagues and the extraordinary athletes who contributed to its rich tapestry. With new releases set every Thursday leading up to June 20, fans and collectors alike are eagerly anticipating each card drop, eager to complete their sets and immerse themselves in this poignant tribute to the trailblazers of the game.

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In a groundbreaking partnership between McFarlane Toys and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), fans of the popular mixed martial arts organization will soon have the opportunity to own detailed collectible figures celebrating their favorite UFC athletes. The announcement, made in Las Vegas and Tempe, Arizona on May 15, 2024, has set the stage for an exciting collaboration that merges the worlds of physical and digital collectibles.

The new licensing agreement, facilitated by UFC’s licensing partner, IMG, aims to bring to life a series of 6-inch figures that intricately depict the most iconic moments and athletes in UFC history. These carefully crafted figures will cater to both traditional collectors, who prefer physical items, and tech-savvy enthusiasts, who can enjoy the digital versions of the collectibles.

Todd McFarlane, the visionary Founder and CEO of McFarlane Toys, shared his enthusiasm for this new venture, highlighting UFC’s global appeal and the opportunity to capture its dynamic energy through collectible figures. “UFC has established itself as a powerhouse in the sports world, captivating millions of fans worldwide with its adrenaline-pumping events,” McFarlane remarked. “Crafting authentic and detailed figures that embody the essence of UFC fights is an exciting challenge for us, and we look forward to seeing fans interact with these creations.”

UFC’s Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Products, Tracey Bleczinski, echoed McFarlane’s sentiments, emphasizing the emotional connection fans have with UFC and their desire for authentic merchandise. “Teaming up with McFarlane Toys, renowned for their expertise in creating intricate collectibles, is a natural fit for us. We are excited to offer our fans a new way to engage with their favorite athletes and relive the intensity of UFC matches through these meticulously designed figures,” Bleczinski stated.

Scheduled for release in the fall of 2024, the new line of UFC collectible figures will be accessible online and at selected retailers worldwide. Additionally, fans can acquire digital versions of the figures through a dedicated platform at mcfarlanetoys.digital, ensuring a seamless transition between physical and virtual collectibles for a truly immersive experience.

This innovative collaboration between McFarlane Toys and UFC is poised to revolutionize the collectibles market for UFC aficionados, providing them with a unique opportunity to connect with their beloved fighters and commemorate the thrill of the octagon through intricately designed and authentic collectible figures.

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Heritage Auctions has unveiled an exciting lineup of autographed photographs in its Icons Photography Auction. One of the most prominent pieces up for grabs is a 1948 photo of basketball star George Mikan, matching his 1948 Bowman rookie card. This 8×10 Type 1 photo captures Mikan in action and is adorned with his signature in blue ink, with an estimated value exceeding $20,000.

The theme of signed vintage photos continues throughout the auction, with a late 1940s photo of Cleveland Browns legend Otto Graham, identical to his 1950 Bowman Football rookie card, also featuring his signature. Another standout item is an autographed 1949 photo of Jackie Robinson receiving his Silver Bat for winning the NL batting title, a year when he was crowned MVP. This Type I photo, personalized to “Jeff,” holds particular historical significance.

Furthermore, a 1957 photo of Robinson bidding farewell to his locker at Ebbets Field upon retiring from baseball is featured, showcasing his Dodgers cap, home jersey, fielder’s glove, cleats, and equipment bag. Two bats in the background, one belonging to Gil Hodges, add to the allure of this piece, expected to attract bids exceeding $10,000.

Among the notable offerings is a photo believed to be the one used for Willie Mays’ 1952 Topps card, featuring Mays’ signature from the 1990s on the front.

The auction catalog encompasses over 150 vintage images, with some dating back over a century. Noteworthy is a photo from the 1919 World Series showing Black Sox pitcher Eddie Cicotte and Reds’ starter Dutch Reuther shaking hands before the infamous game at Redland Field in Cincinnati. This image, complete with the original paper caption and stamps on the back, is set to commence bidding at $8,000.

In addition to these standout pieces, the auction includes rookie photos of sports legends such as Hank Aaron (1954), Jack Nicklaus (1962), and Pete Maravich (1970). Various images of iconic figures like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and other pre-war sports stars are also highlighted in this diverse collection.

With a rich array of sports history captured through photography, the auction is scheduled to run until June 13, offering a remarkable chance for collectors and sports enthusiasts to acquire a piece of heritage from the iconic world of sports.

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A buzz enveloped the sports collectibles world when a staggering $2.1 million worth of vintage baseball cards vanished from an Ohio hotel, only to be unearthed from the clutches of thieves by a diligent recovery effort. The narrative unfolds at the threshold of the Best Western Plus hotel in Strongsville, Ohio, serving as the backdrop for the covert operation that unfolded in the wee hours.

A treasure trove of classic baseball cards, meticulously curated and intended for display at the Strongsville Sports Collectors Convention, went amiss, triggering alarm bells at Memory Lane, the valiant collectibles establishment headquartered in Tustin, California. Their prized possessions had gone astray in transit, and the hunt for the culprit ensued.

The enigmatic figure at the heart of the grand theft saga is Jacob Paxton, a twenty-seven-year-old native of Brunswick, Ohio, who found himself in the unenviable position of being the prime suspect. Faced with charges of first-degree felony theft, his schemes were unraveling. The cards, entrusted to the care of FedEx for safe passage, failed to make their way into the eager hands of the Memory Lane emissary, a victim of circumstance caught in the whirlwind of criminal mischief.

Amidst the chaos, a glimmer of hope emerged when security footage rejected the hotel staff’s dubious claims about the missing package. The spotlight now shone on a sturdy cardboard box teeming with nostalgia – a captivating array of vintage baseball memorabilia. Among the casualties were 14 rare Cracker Jack cards dating back to 1914, a cherished selection of T206 tobacco cards, Brunner’s Bread cards hailing from the early 1910s, and illustrious cards featuring legends like Mickey Mantle and Roberto Clemente, all cocooned in the safety of standard grading holders.

The tale took a decisive turn with the intervention of the vigilant Strongsville Police force, who donned their detective hats on the evening of April 18. The threads of the case wove a compelling narrative as Paxton’s ill-fated attempts to peddle the stolen treasures at a local card emporium came to light. A game-changing tip propelled the authorities towards a Cleveland property linked to Paxton’s acquaintances, where a fraction of the loot, 52 cards to be exact, were reclaimed from the abyss of the criminal underbelly.

Yet, the quest for justice and restitution rages on, with two elusive cards, valued at a staggering $90,000, stubbornly eluding capture. Among these coveted relics are a PSA 8 graded 1941 Play Ball Ted Williams card and a PSA 5 graded 1909 T204 Ramly Walter Johnson card, both emblematic of a bygone era of sporting glory.

Undeterred by the close call, Memory Lane proceeded unfazed with their scheduled auction, steadfast in their conviction that justice would prevail before the final gavel struck on May 4. Guarding their revelations with utmost secrecy, they heeded the advice of law enforcement to guard the delicate threads of the investigation from unwarranted tampering, paving the way for a swift and triumphant return of the purloined treasures.

With the stolen cards set to resume their rightful place, the winning bidders of the auction stand on the brink of sealing their coveted acquisitions. This harrowing saga not only shines a spotlight on the cutthroat realm of vintage collectibles but also celebrates the triumph of diligence and cooperation in thwarting the machinations of malefactors.

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The market for graded magazines, especially those of Sports Illustrated, has seen a surge in interest within the collectibles industry. Certified Collectibles Group (CGC) has been at the forefront of this trend for the past 15 years, having evaluated over 28,000 issues of SI. This growing passion for preserved sports history encapsulated in graded magazines is opening up new possibilities for collectors and investors alike.

At the peak of the magazine pricing spectrum was a 9.8 graded newsstand copy of the December 10, 1984 Sports Illustrated issue featuring Michael Jordan in his Chicago Bulls debut. Titled “A Star is Born,” this particular cover, among the more than 2,000 SI issues graded at 9.8, fetched an impressive $126,000. However, the record is poised for a challenge with the emergence of a new milestone in magazine grading.

In a groundbreaking move, CGC bestowed a rare 9.9 grade upon a December 2022 issue of Sports Illustrated showcasing soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé just before the 2022 World Cup. This exceptional grading was presented to a magazine submitted by a collector from the Midwest, marking the first SI issue to receive such a prestigious score. The magazine is set to be auctioned through Goldin, drawing significant attention to this unique piece.

Goldin recognizes the immense potential in the market for graded magazines and has even established a dedicated category for these coveted items. The Director of Vintage Memorabilia and Photography at Goldin highlights that the appeal of these magazines transcends sports fans, attracting photography enthusiasts, given the contributions of renowned photographers to the iconic covers over the years.

The spotlight is currently on the issue featuring Mbappé, one of two cover versions produced, with the alternative cover showcasing the US soccer team. As the auction progresses towards its closing date on June 8, bids for the Mbappé cover have already reached an impressive $1,708, foreshadowing a potentially record-breaking sale.

In addition to the highly anticipated SI issue, the auction includes other notable items such as a 1965 Topps Mickey Mantle card graded at 8.5, a unique 1956 Floyd Patterson card graded at 9.0, a 1989 SI for Kids featuring Michael Jordan graded at 9.6, and a signed Muhammad Ali cover from 1967, adding to the allure of this event.

While the majority of graded magazines find their way to buyers through platforms like eBay, where over 6,000 listings can be found, significant sales also take place during specialized auctions. For instance, a CGC 9.6 graded issue featuring soccer icon Pele from 1975 was sold for $25,000 in March 2023, while a 1986 Mike Tyson cover graded at 9.0 fetched over $11,000 last year. Notably, four of the top six highest-selling graded SIs on eBay since last year prominently featured Michael Jordan on the cover, underscoring the enduring popularity of the basketball great.

The escalating interest in graded magazines signifies the varied tastes of collectors and the evolving landscape of sports memorabilia as a valuable investment. With each auction and sale, these preserved pieces of history continue to captivate enthusiasts and investors alike, bridging the worlds of sports, photography, and collectibles in a unique and compelling manner.

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Richmond, Virginia, has unleashed a novel rendezvous for sports devotees and collectors, amalgamating the convivial vibe of a sports bar with the enthralling appeal of a sports card shop. Known as Parlay at Graybo’s, this distinctive establishment is situated in the historical Scott’s Addition neighborhood, renowned for its plethora of entertainment spots.

Conceived by Duke Dodson, Ryan Fitz, and Gray “Graybo” Burnette, the concept strives to furnish a communal setting where visitors can relish the excitement of unveiling new card packs, take part in live card breaks, and spectate sporting events on expansive screens, all while indulging in a delectable meal and libations. The venue made its official debut with a lavish event on May 18, featuring a live viewing of the Preakness Stakes, complemented by live music and special festivities.

Occupying the former space of the Circuit Arcade Bar at 3117 W. Leigh Street, Parlay at Graybo’s ingeniously intertwines the sports bar and card shop through a breezeway adorned with a small putting green, amplifying the interactive and captivating essence of the venue.

The brains behind Parlay at Graybo’s boast a profound affinity and extensive experience in the sports card realm:

Duke Dodson, a card collector since the late 1980s, reignited his passion for card collecting in 2021. With a solid foundation in business and finance, Dodson has played a vital role in the real estate sector in Richmond.

Gray Burnette, a history buff and former educator, delved into this venture after departing from the educational domain due to pandemic-related challenges.

Ryan Fitz brings a background in property management and technology, focusing on customer integration to infuse a modern twist into the business operations.

Motivated by their nostalgia for childhood card collecting and a vision to craft a venue catering not only to children but also offering a sophisticated setting for adults to relish sports and collectibles, the trio transformed the initial humble sports card shop into a more expansive and versatile space.

The new locale flaunts noteworthy expansions, with the sports bar spanning 3,300 square feet and the card shop extending to 2,200 square feet. This growth is poised to drive a surge in foot traffic, leveraging its prime location in an area brimming with entertainment options.

Parlay at Graybo’s boasts an innovative feature allowing patrons to engage in or witness live card breaks from the bar, injecting an exhilarating element akin to game days. The founders also cultivate a community for collectors through their eBay store, a weekly podcast, and online live breaks, fostering engagement with the collector community both locally and online.

According to Fitz, the Richmond area teems with a vibrant and expanding base of collectors, ranging from amateurs to seasoned aficionados and investors, rendering Parlay at Graybo’s a welcoming hub for all. The closure of the previous venue, Circuit, paved the way for this fresh endeavor, which Dodson seized by purchasing the property shortly before its shuttering.

This trailblazing amalgamation of a sports bar intertwined with a card shop is trailblazing in the region, proffering a distinctive, electrifying ambiance poised to allure both sports aficionados and card collectors, furnishing them with a one-of-a-kind, immersive encounter.

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In a whirlwind of excitement and bids soaring to uncharted heights, Caitlin Clark’s autographed WNBA debut card has taken the collecting world by storm. The pinnacle of sports memorabilia auctions, Panini America’s recent sale of this one-of-a-kind card has rewritten the record books with a staggering selling price of $24,921.

For fans and collectors alike, Caitlin Clark’s journey from collegiate star to professional athlete has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her transition into the WNBA has only heightened the excitement surrounding her meteoric rise in the basketball world. To mark this significant career milestone, Panini America released a limited edition 1/1 Instant card featuring Clark’s authentic signature, commemorating her debut game in the WNBA.

The buzz surrounding this exclusive card was palpable from the moment it hit the market, with enthusiasts clamoring to own a piece of history linked to Clark’s debut performance on the professional stage. The fierce competition among bidders culminated in a groundbreaking sale price that not only reflects Clark’s immense popularity but also underscores the escalating interest in women’s sports memorabilia.

March marked a pivotal moment in Caitlin Clark’s partnership landscape, as she penned an exclusive agreement with Panini for autographs and memorabilia, consolidating her presence in the collectibles market. The strategic maneuver by Panini has proven to be a game-changer, paving the way for increased visibility and investment in women’s sports collectibles.

The historic auction of Caitlin Clark’s autographed WNBA debut card sends a resounding message to the sports world: the demand for women’s sports memorabilia is not only alive but thriving. With each bid placed and each record broken, the value associated with WNBA players’ collectibles continues to soar, illuminating the bright future of women’s sports in the world of collecting.

From the hardwood to the auction block, Caitlin Clark’s unprecedented success in the WNBA card market epitomizes her ascent as a rising star in both sports and collectibles. As her autographed debut card secures its place in history with the highest sale price ever for a WNBA card at public auction, Clark’s presence in the memorabilia realm shines brightly as a beacon of inspiration for collectors and fans worldwide.

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The recent culmination of REA’s May Encore Auction painted a vibrant picture of the collectibles market, showcasing record-breaking sales and a cascade of vintage treasures that left enthusiasts in awe. The spotlight of the event shone brightly on the niche of set building, with collectors feverishly pursuing complete and near-complete classic baseball sets from the coveted 1950s era. This surge of interest underscored a prevailing trend in the market towards high-grade set building, where rarity and condition reign supreme.

One of the auction’s defining moments unfolded with the sale of a remarkable 1958 Topps near-complete set, missing only a single card, which commanded an impressive price tag of $126,000. Raking in at #13 on the PSA Set Registry with a pristine GPA of 8.00, this set stood as a prime example of the meticulous standards collectors hold for such comprehensive compilations. Following closely was the sale of a 1957 Topps complete set, holding the #24 position on the PSA Set Registry and boasting a GPA of 8.00, fetching a substantial $99,000. Not to be overshadowed, the bidding war also saw the 1959 Topps complete set, occupying the #29 spot on the PSA Set Registry with a GPA of 8.01, being clinched for $72,000.

The auction further stoked the flames of excitement with a nod to pre-war rarities, igniting fervent interest and setting new benchmarks. A captivating lot was the 1909-1911 T206 Ty Cobb Bat Off Shoulder card with the elusive Uzit Back, graded PSA FAIR 1.5, that ignited spirited bidding, ultimately making history with a sale price of $54,000, setting a precedent for its grade paired with the distinctive back. Adding to the allure was the sale of the 1933 R319 Goudey #53 Babe Ruth card, which changed hands for $30,000, marking a record value for its VG-EX 4 grade.

The auction’s grand total featured over 3,600 items crossing the virtual gavel, amassing a staggering sum of nearly $1.8 million from a remarkable 63,000 bids. Some other stellar performers included the likes of the 1955 Topps #164 Roberto Clemente Rookie card, PSA NM-MT 8, which commanded $52,800; the 1954 Topps #128 Hank Aaron Rookie card, PSA NM-MT 8, securing $36,000; and the 1907 Wolverine News Postcard spotlighting a Ty Cobb Portrait Rookie, SGC FAIR 1.5, fetching an impressive $29,400. Not to be overlooked were iconic pieces such as Mickey Mantle’s 1951 Bowman #253 Rookie card, PSA EX 5, going under the hammer for $25,200, alongside a flurry of other noteworthy sales that enthralled the collecting community.

REA President Brian Dwyer reflected on the auction’s triumphs, emphasizing the strong results and the rekindled enthusiasm for high-grade set construction. Dwyer expressed his optimism, foreseeing a promising trajectory for future events and the collectibles industry, buoyed by the current wave of excitement and engagement.

As the dust settles on this remarkable auction spectacle, REA sets its sights on the horizon, preparing for the upcoming June Encore Auction set to kick off on June 13. Following closely will be the expansive Summer Catalog Auction, commencing on July 23, aligned with the 44th annual National Sports Collectors Convention. REA’s presence at Booth #6032 promises a continued celebration of collectibles excellence, ensuring that the fervor for unique pieces and historical treasures remains ablaze in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors alike.

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This summer, the baseball world is abuzz with excitement as one of the most iconic artifacts in the sport’s history, Babe Ruth’s purported jersey from the legendary “called shot” in the 1932 World Series, is set to take center stage at Heritage Auctions. With an estimated value of $30 million, this gray road flannel could potentially become the most expensive piece of sports memorabilia ever sold.

The roots of this jersey stretch back nearly 92 years to a game at Wrigley Field where Ruth famously pointed towards the stands before hitting a home run against the Chicago Cubs. This moment has since become a pillar of baseball folklore, steeped in mystery and debate. The authenticity of Ruth donning this jersey during that historic game has been reinforced by photo matching from two separate companies, further heightening its allure and potential worth.

Previously auctioned in 2005 by Grey Flannel Auctions for $944,000, the jersey was originally consigned by the daughter of one of Ruth’s golfing companions. Over the years, it has undergone careful conservation by the Textile Conservation Workshop to mend a tear while preserving its original state. The jersey impeccably matches the style of the Yankees’ uniform from 1932, further solidifying its historical significance.

Chris Ivy, the Director of Sports Auctions at Heritage, emphasized the jersey’s unparalleled importance in sports memorabilia: “Ruth’s World Series jersey is the most significant piece of American sports memorabilia to be offered at auction in decades. It will hold the record as the most expensive sports collectible ever to cross the auction block.”

Currently, the title for the priciest sports memorabilia belongs to a Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps card, sold for $12.6 million in 2022, also at Heritage Auctions. The highest sum ever paid for a Ruth jersey stands at $5.6 million for a circa 1928-1930 model, sold by Hunt Auctions at Yankee Stadium in 2019.

The lineage and distinctive features of Ruth’s “called shot” jersey, including button placement and specific stains, have been meticulously scrutinized. These subtleties are crucial for authenticators like MeiGray, who treat each game-worn jersey as unique as a fingerprint. This detailed examination ensures that potential buyers have concrete visual evidence supporting the jersey’s claim to fame.

Ruth’s unforgettable home run endures as a pivotal moment in baseball annals, not just for its theatrical nature but also for the myth it generated. Despite conflicting testimonies about the incident, Ruth’s boldness and skill on that day only contributed to his legendary status. The jersey will be showcased at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Cleveland this summer, in anticipation of the auction scheduled for August 23-25.

This forthcoming auction not only commemorates a pivotal fragment of sports folklore but also accentuates the expanding market for premium sports memorabilia, drawing in aficionados and collectors eager to possess a slice of baseball history.

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