Sports Card News

The sports card community is abuzz with excitement as a rare 1/1 Shohei Ohtani Superfractor autograph card emerges from the coveted “2024 Topps 50/50: Shohei Ohtani” collection. Crafted to honor Ohtani’s historic 50-home-run, 50-stolen-base accomplishment—an unmatched feat in MLB history—this card has stolen the spotlight within the collecting realm.

Upon its release earlier this year, the exclusive Topps 50/50 series swiftly flew off the shelves, leaving enthusiasts eager to get their hands on a piece of the action. Priced at $25 per pack or $239.99 for a 10-pack box, the set promised five cards per pack across ten packs, with the allure of uncovering one Chrome Parallel or Short Print per box. However, the true allure lay in the possibility of striking gold with rare autographs, relics, auto-relics, and the elusive six 1/1 autographed Superfractors.

The much-coveted card made its grand debut when Omar, also known as @eastcoastflipper on Instagram, managed to secure one from the collection. This particular card pays homage to Ohtani’s remarkable performance on August 3rd, where he accomplished the impressive feat of stealing three bases in a single game. Omar’s elated reaction upon revealing the card was captured on video, quickly catapulting to social media fame with over 104,000 views on his Instagram alone. Topps further amplified the buzz by sharing the video across their own platforms, amassing an additional 575,000 views.

“This is undoubtedly the most significant card I’ve ever pulled, marking one of the pinnacle moments of my collecting journey,” Omar expressed. A lifelong aficionado of the hobby, Omar reignited his passion during the turbulence of the 2020 pandemic, channeling his ardor into a successful venture centered around grading and selling cards for profit. While deliberating the card’s fate, interest piqued as Goldin Auctions, a notable player in high-end collectibles, initiated following Omar’s account, fueling speculations of a potential blockbuster auction.

The Topps 50/50 series was masterfully crafted to showcase Shohei Ohtani’s extraordinary career and monumental season, embodying the essence of his unrivaled prowess. The emergence of this Superfractor is a glowing testament to the set’s reverberating significance. As Ohtani continues to command both on the field and within the collecting world, this discovery has become a veritable collector’s fantasy. Enthusiasts and fans alike eagerly await the unfolding journey of this unparalleled gem.

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Fanatics and Sotheby’s have once again made waves in the sports card market by joining forces for their latest auction, “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” which raked in an impressive $2 million from the sale of just 11 cards. The standout piece of the auction was a remarkable Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman Triple Logoman card, commanding a hefty price tag of $600,000.

Dubbed as the “Exquisite | Capsule Collection,” this auction exclusively featured top-tier cards from Upper Deck’s acclaimed Exquisite series. Notable highlights included a LeBron James 2003 Rookie Patch Autograph, a Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Kobe Bryant Dual Logoman Autograph, and a Magic Johnson and Larry Bird Dual Logoman Patch Autograph.

The auction shone a spotlight on NBA legends, particularly focusing on the likes of Michael Jordan and LeBron James, whose presence underscored the enduring demand for iconic figures in the sports card collecting realm.

This successful collaboration builds upon their initial venture, the “Holy Grails” auction, where a LeBron James Exquisite card fetched $432,000. This time around, a different version of the same card soared to $456,000, signaling a consistent value for premium cards while reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of the market. Interestingly, a few years back, the same card went for over $900,000, with similar versions reaching heights of over $2 million in 2022.

Upper Deck’s Exquisite line has been a game-changer in the sports card industry, introducing rookie patch autographs that have become a must-have for serious collectors. Products like Panini’s National Treasures owe a debt of gratitude to Exquisite’s innovative approach, spearheaded by Karvin Cheung in the early 2000s.

Fanatics remains committed to elevating the hobby to new horizons. Through partnerships with esteemed entities like Sotheby’s for these high-profile auctions, they are striving to position sports cards as cultural treasures deserving of exhibition in art galleries and esteemed sales events. This strategic vision aims to redefine how sports cards are perceived, emphasizing their worth as prized collectibles and veritable pieces of art in their own right.

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The vintage collectibles market is known for its ebb and flow, with trends shifting like the tides of nostalgia. In the midst of this ever-changing landscape, the realm of trading cards stands out as a beacon of consistent fluctuation, responding not only to the currents of time but also to the ripples of cultural phenomena. And now, with the recent announcement of a new Superman movie, the trading card world finds itself once again caught in a whirlwind of excitement and speculation.

As the industry continues to recover from the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, collectors have been eagerly monitoring the trajectory of their beloved trade. The past few years have seen a steady stabilization in prices, prompting both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to navigate the market with a watchful eye. However, it takes more than just a gentle breeze to stir the waters of the trading card realm.

The ripple effect of the new Superman movie announcement has been swift and significant. Data from CardLadder, a reputable platform for monitoring card prices, demonstrates a clear correlation between the film reveal and the surge in demand for Superman trading cards. One striking example is the 1978 Topps Superman “Christopher Reeve as The Man of Steel” card, a coveted vintage piece that has recently witnessed a remarkable spike in value.

On November 8, a PSA 7-graded copy of this iconic card exchanged hands for $70, reflecting the card’s steady but modest value. However, fast forward to December 19, just over a month later, and a PSA 6-graded variant of the same card commanded a staggering $100, showcasing a remarkable 30% increase in price. This sudden surge serves as a testament to the powerful influence of pop culture on the collectibles market.

It comes as no surprise that the world of trading cards is susceptible to the tides of popular culture. Past instances, such as the surge in cryptocurrency-themed cards during the Bitcoin boom or the emergence of Elon Musk-inspired collectibles, have already demonstrated the impact that current events can have on card values. Now, with the iconic figure of Superman poised to take center stage once more, collectors are flocking to secure their own piece of memorabilia from the legendary hero.

Yet, while the current fervor surrounding Superman trading cards may be enticing, experienced collectors are well aware of the transient nature of such trends. Just as quickly as prices have soared, they are likely to recede once the initial hype subsides and attention shifts to the next cultural sensation. For those looking to capitalize on the buzz surrounding the movie, the window of opportunity is narrow and fleeting.

In the larger scope of the collecting landscape, the enduring allure of Superman transcends fleeting trends and momentary peaks in value. For many enthusiasts, the true value lies not in the price tag attached to a card, but in the intangible connection it represents to a beloved character and timeless narrative. As the world eagerly anticipates the release of the new Superman movie, one thing remains certain—the legacy of the Man of Steel will continue to captivate hearts and minds long after the trading card market has settled back into its familiar rhythm.

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The allure of baseball cards has taken on a new shine in the digital age, with Whatnot leading the charge in live-stream shopping for collectibles. Armand Wilson, the brain behind the scenes as Vice President of Categories & Expansion at Whatnot, shares that the platform is riding high on the wave of sports card collecting, with a card finding a new home every single second on the platform.

Whatnot, known as the largest live-stream shopping network in both North America and Europe, has seen a meteoric rise thanks to the resurgence of sports card collecting. Wilson notes that baseball cards are one of the standout categories on the platform, with the sale of cards being a massive driver of Whatnot’s success. This success has been mirrored by the sellers on the site, with over $2 billion in live sales being generated in just the first nine months of 2024, and with more than 500 sellers raking in over $1 million each. Some successful sellers have even turned to the platform full time, bidding farewell to their traditional jobs in favor of a lucrative career with Whatnot.

Founded in 2019, Whatnot initially started with a focus on Funko Pops before expanding its horizons to include various categories, among which sports cards have stood out. Wilson explains that the company was born out of a need to address the prevalent fraud in the collectibles online market, and the expansion into sports cards has been a seamless transition. On average, buyers on Whatnot indulge in collecting a dozen items per week, showcasing the platform’s popularity among collectors.

A pivotal moment for Whatnot has been its participation in “The National,” a significant midsummer collectibles show. The platform recreated the buzz and excitement of the convention floor on its app, drawing in thousands of sellers for live showcases of their inventory. This innovative approach allowed buyers and sellers to engage in a dynamic manner, cementing Whatnot’s unique position in the market. Wilson emphasizes how showcasing the power of their app by uniting numerous sellers in one place was a game-changer for the company.

Although Whatnot charges an 8% commission on every sale, sellers have reported significantly higher sales volumes compared to other marketplaces. Wilson highlights that sellers on Whatnot experience double the sales they would elsewhere, attributing this success to the platform’s unwavering focus on enhancing user experiences for both buyers and sellers. By prioritizing providing a top-notch experience, Whatnot stays ahead of the competition by catering to the needs of its users.

The growth trajectory of Whatnot has been awe-inspiring, with the company witnessing a monumental shift from less than 10 employees when Wilson first joined to nearly 700 employees today. The amalgamation of cards and online shopping has been a winning formula for the platform, propelling it to unprecedented success. The heartwarming success stories of sellers like Geoff Wilson and Dakota Peters serve as beacons of the platform’s potential, showcasing the tremendous opportunities Whatnot affords to entrepreneurs in the collectibles space.

Whatnot places a premium on fostering trust between buyers and sellers, with sellers building their reputations through maintaining high standards and promptly addressing customer concerns. Wilson stresses the importance of trust-building on the platform, asserting that sellers cultivate and uphold trust to foster growth and success on Whatnot.

Hailing from Culver City, California, with hubs spanning across North America and Europe, Whatnot has firmly established itself as a global force to reckon with. The platform hosts a staggering 175,000 hours of live streams weekly, a figure that dwarfs traditional shopping networks like QVC by a whopping 800 times. Sellers on Whatnot achieve nine times more sales than on other marketplaces, testament to the platform’s efficacy in driving sales and engagement. With buyers spending an average of 80 minutes daily immersed in live streams, Whatnot has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of the collectibles market.

The popular practice of card-breaking, which involves a group collectively opening packs of cards, has emerged as one of the standout features on Whatnot. Wilson raves about the excitement of these sessions, emphasizing how they cultivate a sense of community and engagement among collectors. The fast-paced auctions, some lasting as short as a minute, keep users glued to the platform, eager for more thrills and discoveries.

For many collectors, Whatnot transcends being a mere marketplace; it serves as a hub for social interactions and immersive experiences. Sellers actively engage with buyers in real-time, personalizing interactions by addressing buyers by name and tailoring content to their interests. This personalized touch has been instrumental in Whatnot’s ability to build a diverse and loyal following, attracting collectors from various age groups and backgrounds. Wilson humorously notes that even his 79-year-old father is a part of the Whatnot community, underlining the platform’s broad appeal.

As Whatnot charts a path towards further expansion and innovation, it’s evident that the platform has redefined the landscape of collectible buying and selling. By merging the thrill of live-streaming with the enduring charm of baseball cards, Whatnot has etched a prominent place for itself as a leader in the flourishing collectibles industry.

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Topps, a leading name in the trading card industry, has stepped into the tennis scene with a bang, unveiling its first-ever tennis-specific card brand – the Topps Graphite Tennis. This brand-new venture into the realm of tennis trading cards is a refreshing take on the market, bringing the elegance of the sport to collectors and fans worldwide.

The name “Graphite” pays homage to the very material that serves as the backbone of professional tennis racquets, adding a touch of science and sophistication to the trading cards. Breaking away from the norm, Topps Graphite Tennis introduces the exclusive 1/1 Red Crystalline Refractor, a unique and rare addition aligning with the crystalline structure of graphite. It’s a clever fusion of tennis technology and card collecting that promises a thrilling experience for enthusiasts.

This innovative set features a robust 200-card base checklist that includes both seasoned tennis legends and up-and-coming stars, such as Mirra Andreeva and Ben Shelton. With the allure of three hits per hobby box, which include one relic autograph and an additional autograph, collectors are in for a treat. Notable signers like Andre Agassi, Bjorn Borg, Pete Sampras, Billie Jean King, and Chris Evert lend their signatures to the collection, adding a touch of prestige and excitement for fans.

For avid collectors, each Topps Graphite Tennis hobby box contains 20 cards and retails for $149.99, making it an affordable yet enticing option. Common Refractors are sprinkled throughout the packs, with rarer parallels such as Aqua, Green, Blue, Gold, Pink, White, and the elusive Red Crystalline, all numbered to 200 or fewer, adding an element of thrill to each unboxing experience. The insert lineup is equally captivating, with Active Metal and All Metal cards crafted from actual metal, and the rarest Intricate Images inserts showcasing a portrait-style design that is sure to captivate collectors’ hearts.

With Topps Graphite Tennis, the brand is not just creating trading cards; it’s cultivating a community of tennis fans and collectors who appreciate the blend of sports, science, and design. As this new release takes center stage in the hobby world, the excitement and anticipation surrounding its potential success are palpable. So, will Topps Graphite Tennis be a roaring success or fall short of expectations? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—it’s already making a grand slam impression in the trading card world.

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In a tale befitting a Hollywood heist movie, two men have been sentenced for their roles in the sensational theft of rare baseball cards worth $2.1 million from a Strongsville hotel earlier this year.

Jacob R. Paxton, a 28-year-old from Brunswick who was employed at the hotel, admitted to aggravated theft in October. He received a sentence of four to six years behind bars, followed by two to five years of community control. Paxton was also ordered to pay over $89,000 in restitution for his involvement in the crime. As part of his plea deal, a charge of tampering with evidence was dropped.

The daring heist took place when a shipment of collectible cards from vintage sports card dealer Memory Lane Inc. arrived at the Best Western Plus hotel on April 17. The cards were destined for a sports card expo at the Brunswick Auto Mart Arena nearby. Prosecutors alleged that Paxton, an employee at the hotel, seized the opportunity to pilfer the valuable cards from the delivered packages.

In his court appearance, Paxton expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging the harm caused. He shared, “I just want to say that I’m very sorry to the victim, and this doesn’t show who I am… I should have been honest from the start.” Paxton confessed to withholding information from detectives initially out of fear.

After the theft, Paxton entrusted the stolen cards to Jason Bowling, a 51-year-old from Cleveland. Bowling’s attorney maintained that his client was under the impression that the cards had been discovered in a dumpster and was unaware of their stolen origins.

Authorities conducted a search of Bowling’s residence on May 23, leading to the recovery of all but two of the stolen cards. Through meticulous investigative work involving phone records, surveillance footage, GPS data, and witness testimony, both men were tied to the crime.

Bowling pleaded guilty to receiving stolen property in October and was sentenced to one year of community control for his role in the scheme.

The repercussions of the heist were severe for Memory Lane Inc., causing substantial financial losses and reputational damage to the esteemed sports card dealer. As outlined in a victim impact statement, the company suffered the loss of a $2 million loan, $100,000 in interest, and endured a tarnished reputation as a result of the incident.

Despite the recovery efforts, two of the stolen cards remain unaccounted for:

– A 1909 T204 Ramly Walter Johnson card graded PSA 5, Certificate No. 90586922

– A 1941 Play Ball No. 14 Ted Williams card in near-mint-to-mint condition, graded PSA 8, Certificate No. 05159693

Individuals with information regarding the whereabouts of these missing cards are encouraged to reach out to the Strongsville police at 440-580-3247, citing report No. 2024-000693.

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For recent USC graduate Alec Word, December turned out to be much more than just a celebratory period for earning his Business Administration and Finance degree. The young graduate stepped into the limelight of the sports card collecting community with an extraordinary stroke of luck that left many in awe of his fortune.

Alec’s journey into the realm of high-stakes collecting took a thrilling turn on December 7th when he ventured into Jaspy’s Sports Cards & Collectibles for the very first time. While casually opening packs of the 2024 Topps Update Jumbo in-store, Alec stumbled upon a once-in-a-lifetime discovery: the elusive 1/1 MLB Debut Patch autograph redemption card featuring Baltimore Orioles All-Star Jordan Westburg.

Reflecting on the moment, Alec shared, “I didn’t realize the magnitude of my find at first. The shop’s ecstatic reaction tipped me off—they were in a frenzy.”

Co-owner of Jaspy’s, Maren Jaspersen, fondly recounted the excitement that filled the store that day. “We were all absolutely thrilled for him! It was his inaugural visit to our shop, and he left with a major jackpot.”

The MLB Debut Patch autograph cards, introduced in the 2023 Topps line, stand out as some of the most sought-after treasures in the collecting world. Each card showcases a unique patch from a player’s jersey from their MLB debut game, coupled with their autograph. With only one card in existence for each player, these cards hold immense value for enthusiasts.

At the time Alec pulled his card, around 60% of the 2024 Topps Debut Patch cards had already been documented by collectors, rendering his discovery even more exceptional.

But Alec’s stroke of luck did not conclude there.

Returning to Jaspy’s on December 10th, he opted for Breaker’s Delight boxes known for their improved odds of containing low-numbered cards. Opening them in the comfort of his home via FaceTime with friends, Alec experienced another strike of luck—this time unearthing the live MLB Debut Patch autograph card for Jose Ferrer.

Overwhelmed with joy, Alec exclaimed, “I was in utter disbelief. I started sprinting around the house, shouting in sheer excitement. It felt surreal.”

Alec’s rekindled interest in collecting was sparked during the pandemic as a means to bond with his brother, who is recuperating from back surgery. “It’s a delightful activity we can enjoy together,” Alec expressed.

Regarding the cards, Alec swiftly sold the Westburg card to a devoted Orioles supercollector, but plans to preserve the Ferrer card for his personal collection.

Maren, representing Jaspy’s, encapsulated the sentiment succinctly: “His streak of luck left us dumbfounded. To pull off two phenomenal cards in just a span of a few days is precisely what makes this hobby so enthralling.”

Equipped with a prestigious degree from USC’s Marshall School of Business and a profound affection for sports, Alec aspires to channel his ardor into a promising career in the sports industry. Whether he is hitting the jackpot in the card collecting realm or pursuing his professional ambitions, Alec’s December saga will undoubtedly go down in history as one for the record books.

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Yankees fans will likely shudder at the mention of the 2024 World Series, a bitter memory marked by Aaron Judge’s infamous dropped fly ball during Game 5. The heart-wrenching error, forever etched in baseball lore, recently found a new owner – all for the price of $43,510 at an auction orchestrated by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

In a game that Yankees faithful would prefer to erase from memory, Judge’s mishandling of Tommy Edman’s fly ball set off a disastrous chain of events. The mishap paved the way for the Dodgers to capitalize on the mistakes, turning a five-run deficit into a triumphant victory in Game 5 that led them to claim the coveted World Series title.

Despite the agony it represents for fans of the pinstripes, one avid collector saw value in owning this piece of sports history. The auction saw a surge of interest on its final day, starting at a modest $17,000 bid and rapidly climbing as enthusiasts vied for the iconic ball.

Whether viewed as a nod to the Dodgers’ success or a solemn relic of the Yankees’ misfortune, this ball now serves as a tangible memento of one of the most pivotal moments in the thrilling 2024 baseball season. By forking out $43,510, the new owner has guaranteed that the memory of this game-changing play will remain alive and vivid for years to come.

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Lionel Messi’s stellar performance has once again captured the hearts of fans worldwide, as he was recently announced as the 2024 MLS MVP. The Argentine superstar, playing for Inter Miami CF, displayed an unmatched level of skill and dominance throughout the season, tallying an impressive 36 goal contributions in just 19 games. Messi secured a staggering 38% of the MVP vote, solidifying his status as a true legend of the game.

In celebration of this monumental achievement, Topps Now unveiled a limited edition Collector’s Edition MVP card dedicated to Lionel Messi. Numbered to only 99 copies, this exclusive card featured unique design elements and premium craftsmanship that instantly made it a must-have item for collectors and fans alike. Priced at $199.99, the card flew off the shelves within moments of its release on December 6, leaving many enthusiasts empty-handed.

The Lionel Messi – 2024 MLS Topps Now MVP Collector’s Edition Card (#173CE) is a testament to the footballer’s unparalleled talent and charisma. Crafted with 130pt premium cardstock and adorned with exquisite gold foil accents, the card exudes luxury and elegance. The dynamic image of Messi clad in Inter Miami’s iconic black jersey, captured in a moment of celebration, encapsulates his indelible mark on the sport.

Throughout the 2024 season, Messi’s impact transcended mere statistics, as his leadership played a pivotal role in guiding Inter Miami CF to clinch the Supporter’s Shield. This triumph not only showcased Messi’s individual brilliance but also underscored his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates and propel the team to new heights. As a result of this success, Inter Miami CF secured crucial advantages for the upcoming 2024 Playoffs and earned a coveted spot in the prestigious 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.

The accolade of MLS MVP adds another illustrious title to Messi’s storied career, which already boasts an impressive array of achievements, including eight Ballon d’Or awards, a record-breaking 672 goals for Barcelona, and numerous historical milestones in La Liga. His legacy as one of the greatest players of all time continues to grow with each passing season, solidifying his status as a true football icon.

The release of the MVP Collector’s Edition card marked a historic moment in sports memorabilia, with collectors and fans alike clamoring to own a piece of this limited-edition gem. With only 99 copies in circulation, the card has already garnered acclaim as one of the most coveted items in the world of sports cards, symbolizing not just Messi’s exceptional MLS season but also a rare opportunity to own a piece of football history.

As Lionel Messi’s legacy unfolds with each remarkable feat on the field, this exclusive card stands as a timeless tribute to his greatness, ensuring that his impact on the world of football will be cherished and celebrated for generations to come.

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Call of Duty enthusiasts and trading card collectors rejoice as the latest batch of Call of Duty League (CDL) trading cards for the 2022-23 season have officially hit the market. Available for purchase on Upper Deck’s website, these cards are creating a buzz among fans eager to get their hands on the newest additions to their collections.

This release is particularly special as it introduces trading cards for the Boston Breach, a new team that joined the league during the Vanguard season. Additionally, fans can expect to see cards featuring players from OpTic Texas, a team formed from the merger of Dallas Empire and OpTic Gaming. The anticipation is high for rookie cards of rising stars like Scrap and possibly Ghosty, depending on the final lineup of players included in the checklist.

The history of competitive Call of Duty stretches back to the franchise’s inception in 2003. However, the official Call of Duty League was established in 2019 with the release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. Since its inception, CDL has revolutionized esports with its city-based team structure and structured competitions, bringing a whole new level of excitement to the gaming world.

Upper Deck, a key player in the trading card industry, partnered with CDL in 2022 to produce a set of trading cards featuring players from the Modern Warfare (2019) and Cold War seasons. While this collaboration marked Upper Deck’s official entry into the world of Call of Duty trading cards, it wasn’t the first time Call of Duty players were immortalized on collectibles. In 2021, Mountain Dew Game Fuel collaborated with Call of Duty to release a special set of cards featuring top players like Seth “Scump” Abner and Thomas “ZooMaa” Paparatto.

Known for its involvement in esports collectibles, Upper Deck also holds licenses for the Overwatch League in addition to the Call of Duty League. Its impressive portfolio includes various trading card sets, such as the 2022 Upper Deck Call of Duty Game Dated Moments series. This unique series showcased significant moments and rookie players like Amer “Pred” Zulbeari, a pivotal member of OpTic Texas’s World Championship victory.

The 2022-23 trading card release coincides with the sixth season of the Call of Duty League, marking a continued evolution from its predecessor, the Call of Duty World League. This transition from the open tournament format to the city-based competition has brought a new level of structure and competitiveness to the esports landscape, captivating audiences worldwide.

Fans and players alike are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to get their hands on the latest trading cards, with some professional players expressing their own excitement about collecting these cards. The vibrant community surrounding the CDL is abuzz with anticipation as collectors gear up to secure their favorite pieces from this year’s set.

For gaming enthusiasts and collectors, the 2022-23 Call of Duty League trading cards offer a chance to own a slice of gaming history. Dive into the world of CDL by visiting Upper Deck’s website to explore the collection and snag your favorite cards from the thrilling 2022-23 season!

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