Diecast Cars for Auto Aficionados by Christian Ruelas
For more than four decades, the Franklin mint has created treasured collectibles and works of fine art that have touched the lives of people throughout the world. From dolls and games to die cast models, the Mintâs gifted artisans craft keepsakes that can be passed down through the generations.
One such line of collectibles that bring joy to auto aficionados everywhere are their line of diecast cars. These exquisitely detailed models are collectible pieces of automobile history, representing all of the classic manufacturers and their iconic vehicles. So while most car lovers wonât have the chance to own their own classic Corvette or Mustang, the Franklin mint has a diecast model with all of their details intact. Sure, you wonât be able to take it around the block for a spin, but itâs the next best thing to owning the real thing.
The Franklin Mintâs line of diecast cars covers both domestic and foreign vehicle classics. On the domestic side, the big manufacturers such as Chevy, Ford, Plymouth and Cadillac are all well represented.
For Chevy, it is impossible ignore the Mintâs Corvette diecast models. Their 1965 Corvette Stingray is a perfect representation of this classic vehicle in all its glory. The mint captures all of the carâs details, down to the bulge hood, flip-up headlights and hinged fuel cap. Plus, any car aficionado will swoon with just one look at the recreation of the Corvetteâs 396 Turbo Big Jet Block engine. The Franklin Mintâs 1965 Corvette Stingray is hand crafted with a body made from real fiberglass, just like the real version. Also, just like the real vehicle, there are a limited number of these models being made for sale worldwide.
With Ford, The Franklin Mint pays homage to a variety of different classic Mustangs from the 1960âs to the present, but it is their model of the 1965 Shelby Mustang that stands out from the pack. This precision engineered 1:24 scale replica is authentic in every detail, from the blue striping to the roaring 289 HiPo V-8 Shelby Cobra engine. The hood is even made of fiberglass, just like that of the actual car. Better still, every detail of the Franklin Mintâs replica of the 1965 Shelby Mustang has been authenticated by Carol Shelby himself.
The Franklin Mintâs line of Plymouth diecast model cars fittingly pays tribute to their line of 1970âs muscle cars, with the 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda 440 Six Pack. Though this car technically ended the muscle car era, today it stands as a cult classic that is one of the most sought after muscle cars to own. Thankfully, the Franklin Mint has created a replica of this vehicle that is the next best thing to the real car. The Cuda got its âSix Packâ moniker from the trio of two-barrel carburetors fitted to the 440cid engine. This car also has a distinctive grille, “fender gills” and quad headlamps. Hand-painted Triple Black, all of these elements are recreated in the Franklin Mintâs model, making it possible to share the legend of the âCuda with your family for years to come.
Another iconic brand that has always been considered an American Classic is the Cadillac. Nowadays, we think of the Escalade as the symbol of luxury and the embodiment of the American dream. But back in the 1950âs it was all about Elvis and the legendary pink Cadillac. Fittingly, the Franklin Mint has a replica of just that. The 1955 Cadillac Fleetwood was as much of a social statement as it was a thing of beauty. It was a symbol of success for Elvis that exuded his over-the-top rock ân roll persona. The Franklin Mintâs replica Cadillac Fleetwood is modeled after the car Elvis gave his mama. It features over 175 hand-assembled components including operating features as well as Elvisâ favorite guitar: the Martin D28.
For fans of foreign sports cars, the Franklin Mint has models of the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera and the Porsche 997 GT3 that will have speed demons licking their chops with envy. The Mintâs 1:18 scale diecast replica of the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera comes in Nero Noctis/Metallic Black and features a workable steering wheel and opening doors, trunk and hood. It also has a detailed undercarriage and engine compartment.
The Porsche 997 GT3 RS Black Die-cast Model is a 1:12 scale precision replica of the actual Porsche 997 GT3 RS “warp speed” vehicle; the most successful selling 911 in the companyâs history. The model version features 448 separate metal and plastic parts that include photo-etched planes, metal wiring, screws and nuts. Though you canât take this replica for a 187 mph joy ride, the details in this model will make you proud to own such a high quality collectible.
The idea of surprising the auto aficionado in your life with their dream vehicle this holiday season mostly exists only in car commercials. But thanks to the Franklin Mintâs diecast auto replicas, the dream can be a reality. Though the reality is on a noticeably smaller scale, the details and craftsmanship in the Franklin Mintâs models will make them a gift that your loved ones will cherish for years to come.
Christian Ruelas is a freelance writer who writes about a variety of topics including shopping for diecast cars.
Article Source: http://www.earticlesonline.com/Article/Diecast-Cars-for-Auto-Aficionados/952255
OOTD: Navy, Pink & Mint (02.21.12)
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BOVET SPORTSTER SAGUARO 46MM 18k SOLID PINK GOLD 227 GRAMS 8 OUNCES LIMITED MINT $30,500.00 |
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CARTIER CALIBRE W7100040 18k ROSE PINK GOLD WHITE DIAL MENS FULL SIZE 42mm MINT $29,990.00 |
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Daum Crystal PEONY JEWELS PINK VASE 03965 New In Box MINT $29,700.00 |
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Daum Crystal BIRD OF PARADISE GREEN-PINK VASE 03930-1 New In Box MINT $13,925.00 |
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Daum Crystal AMARYLLIS PINK VASE 03257-1 New In Box MINT $13,180.00 |
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Authentic Hermes PINK DRAGEE kelly 32cm in mint condition $9,918.87 |
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DUBEY & SCHALDENBRAND VINTAGE CAPRICE 18k PINK GOLD BIG DATE POWER RESERVE MINT $8,850.00 |
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Rolex Mens Datejust 116231 Z 18k Pink Gold & Steel Black Dial Box & Papers MINT $8,295.00 |
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Daum Crystal BIRD OF PARADISE GREEN-PINK BOWL 05109 New In Box MINT $7,995.00 |
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ROLEX DATEJUST MENS STEEL & 18K ROSE PINK ROSE SILVER ROMAN DIAL MINT 116231 !!! $7,790.00 |
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Mint vintage 9ct Pink Gold Rolex Octagonal Oyster, Hallmarked, service & superb $5,880.75 |
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Daum Crystal AMARYLLIS PINK VASE 03534-1 New In Box MINT $5,810.00 |
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Cartier ladies SS Roadster Limited Edition Breast Cancer Pink W62043V3 Mint $3,895.00 |
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Daum Crystal BIRD OF PARADISE GREEN-PINK VASE 03974 New In Box MINT $3,805.00 |
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2007 Fender Stratocaster Custom Shop – Shell Pink – Mint – We Ship Worldwide $3,199.99 |
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Vintage & Rare MOVADO Auomatic, 28 jewels, 18 kts. solid pink gold, MINT !! $2,980.00 |
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Original Cartier Stainless Steel Pasha!! Pink Roman Dial! Model # W31047M7! Mint $2,800.00 |
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Oris Chronograph Two tone pink gold MINT $2,500.00 |
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Vintage & Nice BREITLING CADETTE, 18 kts solid pink gold, MINT !! $2,480.00 |
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MINT! 2009 AUTHENTIC CHANEL METALLIC PINK XL JUMBO TOTE BAG WITH MODERN CHAIN $2,180.00 |
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LOUIS VUITTON STEPHEN GRAFFITI SPEEDY 30 LIMITED FUSHIA PINK BROWN MINT LOCK KEY $2,000.00 |
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Exquisite Chanel 07P Pink Tweed Dress 38 36 RARE MINT $1,999.99 |
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MEN’S OMEGA CIRCA 1958 SOLID 18K PINK GOLD CAL.257 MANUAL MINT SERVICED $1,950.00 |
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MINT LOUIS VUITTON CHERRY CERISE BUCKET MURAKAMI PINK $1,880.00 |
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Sg 275 1d Aniline Pink. A superb Post Office fresh unmounted mint. $1,560.36 |
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Daum Crystal BIRD OF PARADISE GREEN-PINK BOWL 03950 New In Box MINT $1,580.00 |
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AUTHENTIC Balenciaga Editors Bag the First 103208 Neon Pink Handbag MINT $1,495.00 |
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AUTH LOUIS VUITTON PINK TRAPEZE GM CRUISE MINT $1,375.00 |
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Franz Porcelain PINK CAMELLIA LARGE VASE FZ02728 New In Box MINT $1,270.00 |
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Daum Crystal KEA BLUE PINK 03182-1 New In Box MINT $1,235.00 |
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Sg 275 1d Aniline Pink. A superb lightly mounted mint example. $1,058.54 |
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MINT ESP EDWARDS TB-135 Quilted PINK $980.00 |
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Rizal Pink Rabbit Mid Length Fur Coat Mint Condition M 8 10 $1,020.00 |
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Daniel Lotton Glass Bowl Crystal Pink Flowers Mint Sign $950.00 |
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MINT! Authentic Chanel Classic Diamond Quilted Pink Caviar Bowling Leather Bag $925.00 |
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Roseville Baneda Pink Vase 597-10″ – MINT $900.00 |
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Antique Bulova Pink Enamel Ball Watch –Enamel is MINT $899.99 |
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ROOKWOOD 4″ x 4.5″ BABY ELEPHANT CANDLESTICKS 6059 IN SPRING GREEN/PINK MINT $895.00 |
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ROSEVILLE IMPERIAL II 9″ VASE PINK AND GREEN DRIP GLAZE W/ORNATE BLUE BAND MINT $895.00 |
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Sg 275 1d Aniline Pink. A superb lightly mounted mint example $862.51 |
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Authentic Early 1800′s Pair of Pink Luster Staffordshire Dogs – MINT $900.00 |
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Daniel Lotton GlassBowl Green and Pink Pattern Mint $900.00 |
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Daniel Lotton Glass Vase Blue Pink Threaded Signed Mint $900.00 |
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Daniel Lotton, Cased Pink Pulled Feather Bowl Mint $900.00 |
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Daum Crystal ROSES PINK PERFUME BOTTLE 03233 New In Box MINT $885.00 |
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SG. 275. M6 (8) 1d Aniline Pink. A decent mounted mint example. $862.51 |
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Tiffany & Co Silver Signature MINT Pink Enamel Bangle Bracelet! $849.00 |
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Nice Roseville Pink Baneda Bulbous Vase, MINT $799.00 |
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Tiffany & Co Silver Pink Enamel Signature X Bangle Bracelet Mint Excellent $798.00 |
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“MINT!!” ANTIQUE ROSEVILLE # 622-7 PINK & BLUE CHERRY BLOSSOM ART POTTERY VASE $795.00 |
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Daniel Lotton Glass Crystal Perfume Pink Flowers Mint $800.00 |
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SG 257a 1/- Dull Green & Carmine Pink(Chalk)M46(-)Hendon listed shade in U.Mint. $776.26 |
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Vintage 1950 FLORENCE Ceramics KARLO GISHA figurine 14″ RARE mint PINK Kimono $750.00 |
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1d SG 275 ANILINE-PINK(F) MINT, fine fresh mm, wonderful colour of this scarce s $705.69 |
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MINT JUDITH LEIBER PINK CRYSTAL SCALLOP VINTAGE MINAUDIERE BAG GORGEOUS!! $721.05 |
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Antique 1800s Staffordshire 22 Mint ENGLISH CHILD’S Pink China Play TEA SET $700.00 |
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KAWS ACCOMPLICE PINK VERSION COMPANION PRINT MINT WITH BOX 2002 LIMITED EDITION $699.99 |
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MEGA RARE PINK FLOYD THE WALL DJ COPY LP JAPAN PROMO ISSUE ONLY XDAP-7 MINT $699.99 |
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ROSEVILLE BLEEDING HEART 15.25″ FLOOR VASE PINK MINT! $695.00 |
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WELLER MARENGO 13.5″ VASE STYLIZED TREES PINK/RED MINT $695.00 |
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ROSEVILLE CHERRY BLOSSOM 6″ x 7.5″ BALL VASE IN PINK/BLUE MINT $695.00 |
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Daum Crystal BIRD OF PARADISE GREEN-PINK DISH 05124 New In Box MINT $710.00 |
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PINK FLOYD ROGER WATERS SIGNED DARK SIDE OF THE MOON VINYL! MINT! W/PROOF+C.O.A. $699.99 |
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VINTAGE Mary McFadden COUTURE fortuny SILK pleat GRECIAN gown DRESS pink MINT 10 $699.95 |
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LARGE 11″ Roseville Pink Baneda Facet Bowl, MINT $675.00 |
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Roseville Baneda Pink Vase 591-6″ – MINT $600.00 |
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14K Soft Pink Cultured Pearl Necklace, Ring and Earring Set – MINT! $589.99 |
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6 Salviati Pink Gold Swan Stem Goblets Murano Venetian Art Glass MINT SET $599.00 |
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Reynolds DV46C Carbon Clincher Custom Pink Decal Wheelset 700C MINT CONDITION!! $560.00 |
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Antique 1930s Pink Blue Basket Quilt Beautiful NICE GIFT CHOICE Mint! $585.00 |
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RARE! VINTAGE PINK POPPY McCOY VASE PLANTER MINT COND! $550.00 |
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EMILIO PUCCI LADIES PINK/BLACK/WHITE SILK DRESS/UK 12/USED/MINT CONDITION $548.85 |
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Sg 310 10d Dull Purple Reddish Purple & Aniline Pink. A superb unmounted mint. $509.67 |
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Roseville Baneda Pink Vase 603-4″ – MINT $525.00 |
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Traffic/Mr Fantasy/1967 Pink Island MONO LP/MINT $517.51 |
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SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL FLAMINGO- 2002 – BOX / COA – MINT ROSALINE CRYSTAL ( PINK ) $500.00 |
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ZU MING HO “Pink Coral” Limited Edition Lithograph AP 67 / 75 w/COA mint $499.00 |
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Louis Vuitton Multicolor Cosmetic Case *Mint* Hot Pink Inside!! $499.00 |
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ROSEVILLE THORNAPPLE 9″ WALL POCKET IN GORGEOUS BLUSH PINK 1280-8 MINT $495.00 |
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Mint Orient and Flume Greg Held Transparent Pink Dogwood Vase 6″ $500.00 |
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GRAPHIC 30′s Vintage Chinese Fans Baby Bunting Sawtooth Antique Quilt Top ~MINT! $495.00 |
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Haviland France Pompadour Lavender/Pink EIGHT/5pc China Place Settings – Mint! $449.95 |
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Roseville Pink Baneda Two-Handle Vase, MINT $475.00 |
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Roseville Baneda Pink Vase 602-6″ – MINT $475.00 |
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Exquisite Natural Pink Sapphire Diamond 18K Gold Earrings High Quality Mint! $475.00 |
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Samsung Galaxy S II GT-I9100 – 16GB – Pink (Unlocked) Smartphone MINT $400.00 |
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FRANKLIN MINT JACKIE KENNEDY PINK DRESS DOLL $435.00 |
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ANTIQUE LIMOGES BOULLION CUPS ” PINK ROSES & SWAGS” 6 SETS -MINT CONDITION” $450.00 |
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Authentic Gucci Hat & Purse Bag Set Pink Monogram MINT with Dust Bags!! $449.00 |
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RARE MID-CENTURY MODERN PINK 50′S CHAISE LOUNGE MINT! $450.00 |
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1996 RARE Limited Edition PINK SPLENDOR BARBIE *MINT* NRFB $425.00 |
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SCOTTY CAMERON 34″ RH SQUAREBACK #1 20g WTS HULA GIRL HCVR HOT PINK/GREEN(MINT) $428.00 |
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Pink-Kar Auto Union Type C ’36 1:32 Slot Car Mint/Boxed $435.00 |
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US #159 – 6c PINK “LINCOLN” MINT/HR $424.99 |
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Mason’s Pink Vista China Soup Tureen w/Ladle and Handled Under Plate – MINT $399.95 |
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LLADRO LA MAJA HEAD BUST # 4668 MINT DELICATE PINK ROSES! $399.99 |
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Chanel Nude Pink Satin Leather 3D Rose T Strap Sandals Mint Condition 39 8 shoes $399.00 |
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Mint Ping Custom Pink G20 Driver 9.5 Stiff Right $399.99 |
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Mint Ping Custom Pink G20 Driver 10.5 Stiff Right $399.99 |
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MINT PLATINUM BLONDE SWIRL HEAD, PINK LIPS, LOTS MORE PICTURES IN AUCTION $399.00 |