Sports Card News

Michael Jordan, known as the GOAT of basketball, has not only made waves on the court but also in the world of sports memorabilia. Collecting Michael Jordan cards has become a passion for many, with some cards fetching astronomical prices. Here are five must-have Michael Jordan cards that every collector should consider adding to their collection for their historical significance and potential as long-term investments.

The 1986-87 Fleer Michael Jordan Rookie Card (#57) stands as the Holy Grail for basketball card collectors. This card captures Jordan in his rookie season with the Chicago Bulls, a pivotal moment in his illustrious career. Its timeless design features a classic action shot of Jordan and has seen a significant surge in value over the years, with gem-mint graded versions selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars. The rarity and historical importance of this card make it a cornerstone of any serious collection and a potential high-return investment.

The 1997-98 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems (PMG) Michael Jordan card is a crown jewel of the hobby. Limited to just 100 copies split into green and red variations, this card is highly sought after by collectors. The green variant, in particular, commands prices well into the six-figure range due to its rarity and unique design. The scarcity and desirability of the PMG Jordan card make it a must-have for high-end collectors and a promising investment with values likely to continue rising.

Before the iconic Fleer Rookie Card, collectors cherish the 1984-85 Star Company Michael Jordan XRC (#101) as his true rookie card. Produced by the Star Company, this card features Jordan in his Bulls uniform during his rookie season and is considered a valuable piece of his early career. The limited availability of high-grade versions adds to its allure among collectors, with increasing recognition and demand indicating significant investment potential.

The 1993-94 Ultra Scoring Kings Michael Jordan card is a favorite among collectors for its striking design and association with one of Jordan’s dominant periods in the NBA. Known for its eye-catching holographic backgrounds, this card features an electrifying image of Jordan, capturing his intensity and skill. While not as rare as some other cards, its strong market presence and appeal suggest solid long-term value growth, making it a visually stunning addition to any collection.

The 2009-10 Exquisite Collection Michael Jordan Limited Logos Autograph Patch card is a masterpiece of modern card design. Produced by Upper Deck, this card features a game-worn Jordan jersey patch along with his autograph, making it a centerpiece of any high-end collection. Limited to just a few copies and in high demand due to the premium quality and unique jersey patches, this card remains a strong investment with the potential for substantial appreciation over time.

Owning Michael Jordan cards is like owning a piece of basketball history. These five iconic cards represent different eras of Jordan’s career, each with unique significance and appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these timeless treasures are sure to appreciate in value and prestige. With their historical importance and strong demand in the collectibles market, investing in Michael Jordan cards can offer better long-term returns than many traditional investments. Diversify your portfolio with these exciting and potentially profitable options in the world of sports memorabilia.

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On July 17, 2024, the world of North American sports witnessed a historic moment as 14-year-old Cavan Sullivan made his debut for the Philadelphia Union, becoming the youngest player to ever debut in a major league team sport in the region. In a stellar 5-1 victory over the New England Revolution, Sullivan entered the field in the 85th minute, etching his name in the annals of sports history. This groundbreaking achievement surpassed the previous record set by Freddy Adu, solidifying Sullivan’s place as a prodigy in Major League Soccer.

Notably, the Union’s match against the Revolution was not only significant for Cavan Sullivan but also featured a remarkable goal by his older brother, Quinn Sullivan. The sibling connection added an endearing touch to an already monumental event, further highlighting the Sullivan family’s talent and passion for the sport.

Cavan Sullivan’s record-breaking debut sets a new standard across all major North American professional sports leagues, positioning him at the top of the list as the youngest debutant:

– MLS: Cavan Sullivan (14 years, 293 days)

– NWSL: Melanie Barcenas (15 years, 181 days)

– NBA: Andrew Bynum (18 years, 6 days)

– NHL: Patrick Marleau (18 years, 16 days)

– MLB: David Clyde (18 years, 66 days)

– WNBA: Maria Stepanova (19 years, 108 days)

– NFL: Amobi Okoye (20 years, 91 days)

Cavan Sullivan’s exceptional debut underscores a growing trend in Major League Soccer, emphasizing the league’s commitment to nurturing young talent. With five of the ten youngest players in MLS history debuting since the start of the 2023 season, it is evident that MLS is a breeding ground for emerging stars, propelling the sport into an exciting era of youth talent development.

The emergence of Cavan Sullivan as a trailblazer in professional soccer has not gone unnoticed in the sports memorabilia realm. Topps, a leading name in sports collectibles, has immortalized Sullivan’s historic debut with a Topps Now base card and game-used ball relics, offering fans a cherished memento of this unprecedented achievement in sports history.

Cavan Sullivan’s journey to this groundbreaking debut is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional skill. Rising through the ranks of the Philadelphia Union’s academy system, Sullivan has displayed his prowess from a young age, culminating in a historic moment that reverberates beyond the confines of the soccer pitch. His debut not only signifies a personal milestone but also exemplifies the success of Major League Soccer’s Homegrown Player model, designed to nurture local talents within club academies.

Central to Cavan Sullivan’s journey is the unwavering support of his family, particularly his older brother, Quinn Sullivan. The camaraderie and mentorship between the Sullivan brothers were palpable during the match, with Quinn’s goal punctuating the occasion of Cavan’s milestone debut, showcasing the bond between the talented siblings.

As Cavan Sullivan progresses in his professional soccer career, his unprecedented debut serves as a beacon of inspiration for young athletes worldwide, illustrating that age is no barrier to achieving extraordinary feats with determination and hard work. The sports world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in Sullivan’s remarkable journey, poised to witness the legacy of a young talent destined for greatness.

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The year was 1991, and the realm of basketball trading cards was about to witness a groundbreaking experiment. Enter the 1991 Hoops Metal Prototypes, a daring venture that blended innovation with a hint of danger in the world of sports collectibles. At the heart of this bold move were the iconic Michael Jordan cards, introducing a unique twist to the traditional trading card scene.

These metal cards were not just your average collectibles; they were a fusion of sports excitement and daring creativity. The brainchild of a strategic partnership with a bread producer, the Hoops Metal Prototypes aimed to revolutionize the way trading cards were distributed and collected, much like Jordan’s later collaborations with other brands.

The production process behind these metal marvels was no walk in the park. Crafting cards out of metal required meticulous attention to detail, from selecting the right materials to ensuring the cards were not only visually appealing but also safe to handle. Sharp edges posed a significant challenge, prompting adjustments in the production to ensure the safety of collectors, especially the younger fans eager to get their hands on these unique cards.

While the partnership with the bread producer laid the foundation for distribution, additional plans were brewing. The inclusion of redemption cards in Hoops products added another layer of excitement, offering collectors a chance to exchange these cards for the prized metal versions. This dual approach aimed to broaden the reach and engagement of the cards with the collector community.

However, despite the buzz surrounding the innovative metal cards, hurdles stood in the way. Production costs and safety concerns hindered widespread distribution, making these cards a rare find today. Yet, these challenges only added to the allure of the Hoops Metal Prototypes, turning them into highly sought-after treasures for collectors seeking a piece of basketball card history.

The legacy of the 1991 Hoops Metal Prototypes transcends the realm of trading cards. They represent a bygone era of audacious marketing strategies and uncharted territories in sports memorabilia. The fusion of Michael Jordan’s legendary persona with the unconventional use of metal in card production has etched these cards into the annals of collectible history, showcasing a blend of innovation and risk-taking that set them apart from the crowd.

In the end, the 1991 Hoops Metal Prototypes are more than just cards; they are a symbol of a bold experiment that pushed the boundaries of traditional trading card production. They stand as a testament to an era where risk met reward, and the quest for something extraordinary led to the creation of a captivating chapter in the world of sports collectibles.

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A rare and historically significant Ty Cobb rookie card is currently creating a buzz among collectors as it prepares to be showcased at an upcoming auction. The 1907 Seamless Steel Tubes Post Card, adorned with a handwritten and signed message from the iconic “Georgia Peach,” is poised to become one of the most cherished Ty Cobb memorabilia pieces available for public acquisition.

This exceptional card hails from the early days of Cobb’s legendary career. Making his grand entrance into Major League Baseball in late 1905, Cobb began the 1907 season with a modest .293 career batting average. However, by the conclusion of that season, he had solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s most esteemed players, a fact that shines proudly on this postcard.

The postcard itself is a treasure trove for collectors, being one of only three known specimens of the 1907 Seamless Steel Tubes Cobb rookie card that Heritage Auctions has had the honor of showcasing. With fewer than five known to exist in total, this card holds an esteemed place in the world of baseball memorabilia. Its unique sponsorship by a Detroit factory specializing in exhaust systems for steam locomotives adds an intriguing layer to its charm, especially against the backdrop of Detroit’s burgeoning industrial dominance during that era.

What sets this particular postcard apart and elevates its significance is the heartfelt handwritten message penned by Cobb himself, originally addressed to a former teammate from the 1905 Augusta (GA) Tourists. Marked with a Chicago postmark from October 7, 1907, a mere day before the Detroit Tigers clashed with the Chicago Cubs in the World Series, the message encapsulates Cobb’s enthusiasm and eagerness for the Fall Classic. In the note, Cobb gleefully recounts his triumphs of the season and eagerly anticipates the World Series:

“Well, we have won the pennant and here for the world series. I led in hitting, stolen bases 60, assists, and second 100 runs, hit 355 unofficially – hope you lots of luck, will be glad to hear at any time. Royston GA., have an offer to go with all-Americans out to California. Excuse this advertising card.”

Signing off as simply “Ty,” Cobb’s bold black fountain pen ink signature and message have stood the test of time, maintaining remarkable clarity even after more than a century. Encapsulated by PSA/DNA as Authentic, the card shows signs of wear from its journey through the mail and more than eleven decades of storage, but its historical importance and scarcity overshadow any minor wear and tear.

This Ty Cobb rookie card, enriched with a blend of personal and baseball history, is anticipated to fetch a sum of $150,000 or more at auction. This presents a rare opportunity for avid collectors to own a tangible piece of baseball’s illustrious past, encapsulated in the legacy of the legendary Ty Cobb.

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Upper Deck has scored big in the sports memorabilia arena once again, this time by signing a lucrative deal with none other than NHL prodigy Macklin Celebrini. The 18-year-old hockey sensation was recently crowned the number one overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft by the San Jose Sharks, and Upper Deck wasted no time securing an exclusive autograph trading card agreement with the rising star.

Celebrini’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite his young age, he has already made waves in the hockey world, showcasing his exceptional talent on the ice. His accolades include being the youngest player to ever receive the prestigious Hobey Baker Award during his freshman year, solidifying his status as the best college player in the nation. Additionally, his standout 2023-24 season was stacked with achievements like winning the Hockey East Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Scoring Champion, and the Three-Stars Award for leading in points during the regular season.

Jason Masherah, the President of Upper Deck, couldn’t contain his excitement about adding Celebrini to their roster of hockey stars. He emphasized the company’s commitment to connecting fans with their favorite players, highlighting Celebrini’s potential to captivate audiences as he steps into the NHL spotlight. Masherah expressed pride in representing Celebrini during this pivotal moment in his career and eagerly anticipates capturing his future triumphs on the ice through their trading cards.

To commemorate this groundbreaking partnership, fans can kickstart their Macklin Celebrini card collection on the Upper Deck e-Pack® platform. An exclusive limited edition Game Dated Moments card is currently available for fans to acquire until July 25th, 8:59 AM PST. This exciting release is just the beginning, as fans can expect a range of Celebrini trading card products to roll out throughout the 2024-25 NHL season, allowing enthusiasts to delve deeper into the world of this promising young talent.

As the anticipation builds for Celebrini’s NHL debut with the San Jose Sharks®, Upper Deck’s exclusive trading cards will undoubtedly become prized possessions for collectors and fans alike. With Celebrini’s star on the rise, these cards are set to become coveted memorabilia that capture the essence of a future hockey legend in the making.

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Fanatics Collect has unveiled an exciting update for all card collecting enthusiasts – the introduction of a brand new Buy Now marketplace. This innovative platform comes with a fresh fee structure designed to help sellers make the most out of their sales, maximizing their earnings in the competitive market.

One of the key highlights of the new fee structure is the implementation of a low 6% fee for listings sold below $120. Compared to the industry standard, this rate is one of the most competitive, providing sellers with a significant boost in their potential profits. The previous 20% buyer’s premium and bonus commission fees have been replaced, ensuring a more lucrative selling experience for all involved.

For sellers, the new fee system means that they can now earn up to 94% of the listing price for sales under $119.99. This is a substantial increase from the maximum of 85% that was previously possible, offering sellers a more substantial return on their sales. What’s more, the transition to the new fee structure has been seamlessly implemented for all existing listings, saving sellers the hassle of adjusting prices manually.

The redesigned Buy Now marketplace not only focuses on improving seller earnings but also aims to enhance the overall user experience. By streamlining the browsing and purchasing process, the platform has made it easier for collectors to discover new cards, reducing listing times for sellers, and simplifying the fee structure. This customer-centric approach is a result of extensive feedback received from both collectors and sellers within the community.

To ensure a fair and competitive environment, listings that are priced over 20% above the fair market value will incur a 15% seller’s fee, rather than the standard 6%. This measure aims to promote reasonable pricing and discourage inflated rates, benefiting both buyers and sellers in the long run. Additionally, the removal of the $3 minimum fee for Buy Now sales allows sellers to list items for as little as 50 cents, catering to a wide range of budgets.

The enhanced Buy Now marketplace also promises faster transactions for all parties involved. Through the Fanatics Collect app, collectors can now make instant payments for their purchases, enabling sellers to receive their funds promptly and buyers to expand their collections without delay. This swift and efficient process adds a new level of convenience to the buying and selling experience within the community.

For sellers who may prefer not to operate under the new fee structure, the option to delist their items at any time is available. If needed, sellers can reach out to their dedicated sales representative or contact the Collector Experience team for personalized support and guidance. Fanatics Collect is committed to providing a seamless and rewarding experience for all participants, ensuring that the needs and preferences of the community are met.

The introduction of the Buy Now marketplace marks a significant step forward for Fanatics Collect, signaling their commitment to enhancing the card collecting experience for collectors and sellers alike. Explore the new platform today to experience the benefits of simplified fees, faster transactions, and increased earning potential on every sale. Join the community and elevate your card collecting journey with Fanatics Collect!

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Fanatics Collect and PSA have come together in a groundbreaking partnership that is set to reshape the world of card collecting. This collaboration aims to bring simplicity and security to the authentication and grading process, making it easier for collectors and sellers to navigate the often complex landscape of card evaluation.

The core of this partnership lies in providing collectors access to PSA’s renowned grading services through Fanatics Collect. This integration offers a range of pricing options to suit different needs and budgets, bringing PSA’s previously elusive grading prices within reach for many collectors. With a streamlined submission process, sellers can now submit their cards through Fanatics Collect with ease, entrusting the handling of the entire process, including secure shipment to and from PSA, to the partnership.

Gone are the days of navigating multiple steps and procedures for grading and selling cards. Fanatics Collect takes the reins, managing everything from photography and listing creation to payment collection and ownership transfer post-sale. This seamless approach eliminates the complexities that collectors and sellers once faced, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for all involved.

Central to this collaboration is a firm commitment to trust and safety. Fanatics Collect’s dedicated Trust and Safety and Collector Experience teams work tirelessly to monitor platform activity, providing a secure and welcoming environment that fosters a sense of community among users. This steadfast dedication to safety underscores the partnership’s goal of creating a trustworthy space where sellers can focus on maximizing the value of their cards, and buyers can confidently add high-quality additions to their collections.

Through this innovative partnership, Fanatics Collect and PSA are collectively raising the bar within the hobby, simplifying authentication, grading, and selling processes for the benefit of all involved. This alignment not only empowers sellers to achieve optimal value for their cards but also ensures a consistent supply of premium options for buyers, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of the collecting experience.

For collectors and sellers eager to take advantage of this transformative partnership, the process couldn’t be simpler. By submitting their cards for PSA grading and authentication through Fanatics Collect, users can opt to choose Non-Authenticated (Raw) Trading Cards and decide whether to list them in a Weekly Auction or store them in their Fanatics Collect Vault post-grading. Once in the Vault, cards can be listed for a fixed price in the Buy Now marketplace or entered into a Premier Auction for sale.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Fanatics Collect and PSA marks a significant turning point in the world of card collecting, ushering in a new era of accessibility, trust, and efficiency for collectors and sellers alike.

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Certified Guaranty Company® (CGC®) has unveiled an exciting addition to its lineup – two new custom Marvel labels spotlighting the beloved characters, Deadpool and Wolverine. These limited-edition labels are in honor of the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine film release on July 26.

The return of Deadpool brings a fresh, all-new design that fans have long awaited. The original Deadpool label, which first debuted in January 2020, quickly gained popularity among collectors. After a hiatus, Deadpool makes a striking comeback in a revamped appearance that is bound to captivate enthusiasts once more.

In conjunction with Wolverine’s 50th anniversary, CGC is proud to introduce a visually stunning Wolverine label. Featuring iconic cover art from Incredible Hulk #340 by Todd McFarlane, this label is a must-have for any die-hard Wolverine enthusiast. The intricate design pays homage to the rich history and legacy of the character.

Whether you are a devoted fan of Deadpool, Wolverine, or both, these new Marvel labels are sure to elevate the allure of your comic collection. It is important to note that these exclusive labels will only be available until December 31, 2024, adding to their collectible value and exclusivity.

Obtaining these bespoke Marvel custom labels is a seamless process. Simply initiate a new CGC Comics submission, opt for your desired grading tier and any additional services, locate your Marvel comic by title, and select the custom label option. At this point, you can browse through CGC’s diverse range of custom labels to find the perfect fit for your comic.

Each custom label is offered in two variations – CGC Universal (blue) and CGC Signature Series (yellow), with an additional $5 fee. These labels can be applied to any Marvel book submitted for CGC’s grading or ReHolder services via the online submission form. Given that all Marvel labels released in 2024 are limited-time collectibles, it is advisable to secure these exclusive designs at the earliest opportunity.

Don’t miss out on the chance to enhance your comic collection with these exclusive Marvel labels featuring Deadpool and Wolverine. Act fast to acquire these unique designs before they vanish into the comic book abyss. Secure your limited-edition Marvel labels before December 31, 2024, to make a statement in your collection.

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Collectors and dealers immersed in the exciting world of autographed cards have a reason to rejoice as CGC Cards™ and James Spence Authentication® (JSA®) have joined forces to provide a seamless experience for submitting these prized possessions for authentication and grading. This innovative partnership covers a wide range of cards from trading card games (TCGs) to sports and non-sports cards, making it a one-stop solution for enthusiasts.

The Certified Collectibles Group® (CCG®) made the exciting announcement just ahead of the National Sports Card Convention scheduled from July 24-28. CGC Cards and JSA have officially launched this integrated service starting July 15, 2024, allowing collectors to easily submit autographed cards for JSA authentication and CGC Cards grading and encapsulation in one convenient process.

This collaboration marks a significant expansion following the successful introduction of CGC x JSA certification for comics back in May. With CCG being a prominent name in the collectibles grading arena, having certified close to 100 million items since its inception in 1987, the acquisition of JSA earlier this year has further fortified their autograph authentication offerings. The future roadmap includes extending these combined services to magazines, pulps, and concert posters.

What better occasion to launch this new offering than the National Sports Card Convention, one of the biggest events in the card collecting calendar? The CGC x JSA certification services for cards will be available at the event, providing collectors and dealers with the option for regular submissions at the show, through mail-in services, and comprehensive on-site facilities for instant authentication, grading, and encapsulation of cards.

Having pioneered witnessed signature authentication through the CGC Signature Series for comics back in 2001, CGC is now gearing up for the full-fledged launch of the CGC Signature Series for cards. This move aims to offer autograph collectors a comprehensive suite of services leveraging the combined expertise of CGC and JSA in the field.

James Spence, Jr. founded JSA in 2005, carving a reputation as the go-to autograph authentication service globally. With an extensive database housing nearly 1 million images, JSA utilizes a combination of this repository and cutting-edge technology to ensure precise authentication of autographs, bolstering collectors’ confidence in their prized possessions.

Autographed cards that receive certification from CGC and JSA will boast a unique CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label. This label prominently features both brand names and emphasizes the “Authentic Autograph” designation in yellow, a color that has a historical association with CGC for indicating genuine signatures. Moreover, autograph grading can be requested for cards, with the grade being prominently displayed on the label alongside the card’s grade and description. To provide further insights, cards encapsulated with the CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label will come with CGC Cards Grader Notes, ensuring collectors have detailed information about the signers.

For top-tier cards meeting the highest standards, CGC Cards offers the prestigious gold CGC x JSA Pristine 10 label, exclusively reserved for cards achieving a CGC Pristine 10 grade, signifying their exceptional quality and rarity.

Steven R. Eichenbaum, CEO of CCG, expressed the significance of this partnership, highlighting the exceptional combination of top-notch grading services from CCG with JSA’s expert autograph authentication services in 2024. James J. Spence, Jr., President of JSA, echoed this sentiment by expressing his delight in fulfilling collectors’ long-standing request for combined services at The National, marking a milestone in providing enhanced services to collectors worldwide.

To learn more about the submission process for CGC x JSA certification for cards, collectors can visit the CGC Cards website. The submissions can be conveniently made through the online submission form, where collectors can select “JSA Autograph Authentication” after choosing their preferred grading tier. The pricing for JSA autograph authentication is tier-based, with additional CGC Cards grading fees applicable as per the selected service.

With a commitment to delivering top-notch services and handling every submission with the utmost care and expertise, CGC and JSA are poised to elevate the collecting experience for enthusiasts worldwide. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the collectibles industry, promising a seamless and enhanced experience for autographed card collectors and dealers alike.

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Introducing Galaxy Rip Packs – the ultimate sports card repack product designed to thrill collectors with the unexpected. Each pack offers a journey into the exhilarating world of sports, promising an unparalleled experience with every rip.

With an incredible range of values, Galaxy Rip Packs have a floor value starting at just $0.01, yet the ceiling soars beyond $1500. The potential for astonishing discoveries awaits in each pack – imagine the rush of pulling a card worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars!

The mystery and intrigue surrounding Galaxy Rip Packs make every pack opening a heart-pounding experience. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, the element of surprise is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly anticipating what treasures lie inside.

Covering all major sports, Galaxy Rip Packs offer an all-inclusive experience for enthusiasts. From rookies to legends, each pack serves as a gateway to discovering your next prized possession, making it a perfect choice for fans of various sports disciplines.

What sets Galaxy Rip Packs apart is the diverse selection found in each pack, featuring cards from a wide array of sports. This ensures there is something for every fan and collector, catering to different preferences and interests within the sports card community.

Rest assured of the quality in every Galaxy Rip Pack as each card, whether raw or graded, is meticulously chosen for its quality and potential value. This commitment to high-quality assurance makes Galaxy Rip Packs a worthwhile addition to any collection, offering both excitement and value.

Unveil endless possibilities as you embark on the unboxing experience, with the potential to uncover rare gems of high value. The thrill of not knowing what you’ll pull next adds a unique and unmatched excitement to each rip of a Galaxy Rip Pack, making it a highly anticipated moment for collectors.

Join the community of sports card enthusiasts who share in the excitement and anticipation of each Galaxy Rip Pack unwrapping. Engage with fellow collectors, share your discoveries, and connect with a community that celebrates the joy of collecting sports cards and the thrill of the chase.

Ready to experience the excitement for yourself? Get your Galaxy Rip Packs today for $174.99 and venture into a world filled with mystery, value, and endless possibilities. Unleash the excitement and uncover your next great find with just a rip away.

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