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Playing Cards Advise Troops on Artifacts

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[October 31, 2007]  FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) -- American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan may soon be playing cards with the ace of artifacts or the king of archaeological digs.

Nearly 50,000 decks of cards meant to help troops avoid unnecessary damage to ancient sites and curb the illegal trade of stolen artifacts will be shipped to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as training sites in the United States.

The cards were developed by Colorado State University researcher and graphic artist working with the Defense Department.

Each card displays an artifact or site and gives a tip on how to avoid damaging historic treasures.

Each suit has a theme: diamonds for artifacts and treasures, spades for historic sites and archaeological digs, hearts for "winning hearts and minds" and clubs for heritage preservation.

CSU says none of the decks will be sold commercially.

[Associated Press; By SETH BORENSTEIN]

Copyright 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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