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Nintendo Wire recently reported the discovery of 97 pristine, factory-sealed copies of Super Mario Bros. / Duck Hunt. The cartridges were found in a box originally intended for recycling by a precious metal recovery business that worked with Nintendo. After the business owner passed away, the collection remained in storage for decades before being acquired by a retro shop owner and eventually examined by Jason Ganos of Nintendo Wire.
Upon inspection, experts identified the games as a previously unknown variant produced in late 1993. These cartridges feature unique multi-language back labels and distinct manufacturing codes. The included manuals also contain unique text, specifically using the term "maintenance or service" instead of the standard "maintenance or repairs." While the exact purpose of this production run remains uncertain, researchers hypothesize they were intended for warranty replacements or an unreleased bundle.
The collection underwent professional grading by PSA. Results were exceptional, with several copies receiving a 9.8 rating and one achieving a 10, marking a world first for a NES cartridge. According to Nintendo Wire, individual units are valued at approximately 8,500 euros. The owners plan to distribute the games between public auctions, charity auctions, and personal collections.
