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In an extraordinary revelation that has sent shockwaves through the collector's community, a case of the 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee hockey cards, long believed to be a myth, has been discovered. This exceptional find, comprising sixteen unopened boxes, each containing 48 packs of cards, is currently the centerpiece of Heritage Auctions' Winter Platinum Night Auction. As the auction progresses, bids are rapidly approaching the $2 million mark, with anticipation building around this unparalleled collector's item.

The 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee hockey card set is renowned for hosting the rookie card of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. Its rarity and desirability, especially the OPC version distributed in Canada, are unparalleled, with the potential for at least 25 Gretzky rookies to emerge from this case. Given the historical sales of Gretzky's Gem Mint 10 cards, the value and interest in this auction are astronomical.

Originally retailing for a mere 20 cents Canadian per pack, the discovery of this case is akin to uncovering a treasure trove for collectors. Described as the Holy Grail of hockey card collections, it was found in an attic in Regina, Saskatchewan, amongst a plethora of other unopened card treasures. The journey of this case, from its origin in Canada's prairie provinces to its current auction in Texas, has been fraught with challenges, including customs clearance and transportation under armed guard, underscoring its immense value and significance.

Heritage Auctions has decided to auction this historical find as a complete case, preserving its uniqueness and maximizing its appeal to collectors who dream of owning a piece of hockey history. This auction not only highlights the rarity and value of vintage sports memorabilia but also places hockey memorabilia at the forefront of the auction world, marking a significant moment for the sport and its collectors.