# Blizzard Sells Off Segments of World of Warcraft Heritage: A Unique Collectible Generates Buzz Among Fans
For numerous gamers, World of Warcraft (WoW) transcends mere entertainment—it’s a cultural landmark that has endured for nearly 20 years, crafting countless memories and experiences. But what if you could possess a tangible piece of that legacy? Well, some fortunate fans have accomplished just that, thanks to Blizzard’s sporadic auctions of vintage WoW server blades. These unusual collectibles have become highly sought after by devoted WoW fans, and one such item is currently causing a stir on Reddit.
## An Exceptional Collectible: WoW Server Blades
Blizzard, the creator of World of Warcraft, has periodically auctioned off segments of its outdated server hardware. These server blades were once integral to hosting the realms where millions of players journeyed through Azeroth. In 2011, Blizzard auctioned approximately 2,000 of these server blades, which had facilitated 500 different realms. The earnings from these auctions benefitted charitable initiatives, including a children’s hospital and its research efforts.
These server blades aren’t just any hardware; they come attractively packaged, frequently adorned with signatures from Blizzard developers and an inscription denoting which realm the server catered to. For WoW aficionados, possessing one of these blades is akin to holding a fragment of gaming heritage.
## A Reddit User’s Gem
Recently, a Reddit user by the handle of **u/Drendari** showcased their cherished item with the gaming community: an original World of Warcraft server blade. The post, which can be accessed [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/gaming/comments/1fynxm5/my_piece_of_gaming_history_an_original_world_of/), displays an image of the server blade, complete with Blizzard’s signature packaging and inscriptions.
The particular server blade under discussion previously hosted the **Argent Dawn** realm, a role-playing server that is fondly remembered by many WoW players. The post rapidly attracted attention, with fans sharing their enthusiasm and nostalgia in the comments. One user, **mpokorny8481**, even remarked, “That was my server in vanilla[-WoW]. Incredible!”—a feeling that many long-time players can resonate with.
## What Is a Server Blade?
For those not familiar with the concept, a server blade is a compact, self-contained server unit that is part of a larger blade system. These systems are intended to save space, energy, and cabling by accommodating multiple server blades within a single chassis. In the early days of World of Warcraft, each realm was hosted on several such blades, which collaborated to manage the vast player population.
While these server blades once housed the data that fueled WoW realms, they no longer store any readable information. However, their historical relevance and the memories they evoke render them exceedingly valuable to collectors and fans.
## A Unique Discovery
If you’re eager to acquire one of these server blades, brace yourself for a challenge. Since Blizzard’s last significant auction of server blades occurred in 2011, they have become increasingly scarce. Occasionally, they appear on auction platforms like eBay, but they come with a substantial cost. Currently, listings for WoW server blades fluctuate from **€5,000 to €7,000** (approximately **$5,500 to $7,700 USD**), depending on their condition and the realm they once served.
For those considering a purchase, it’s crucial to confirm the authenticity of the offer. As with any rare collectible, there exists the risk of counterfeit or fraudulent listings. Always conduct your due diligence and make sure you’re buying from a trustworthy seller.
## A Fragment of Gaming Heritage
The appeal of possessing a World of Warcraft server blade extends beyond its mere physicality. For many, it’s a tangible link to the countless hours spent exploring Azeroth, battling formidable foes, and forming bonds with fellow gamers. The server blade symbolizes a moment in time when WoW was still in its early stages, and the game was shaping the MMORPG genre.
In addition to the Argent Dawn server blade presented by **u/Drendari**, other distinguished blades have found their way to notable members of the WoW community. For instance, prominent streamer **Sodapoppin** possesses a server blade from the **Aegwynn** realm, a former PvP (Player vs. Player) server.
## Blizzard’s Philanthropic Auctions
Blizzard’s choice to auction these server blades for charity highlights the company’s dedication to giving back to the community. The 2011 auction generated substantial funds for the **St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital**, a leading institution in pediatric treatment and research. By transforming old hardware into valuable collectibles, Blizzard not only preserved a slice of gaming history but also supported a noble cause.
## Do You Own a Segment of WoW Legacy?
For those who played on realms such as Argent Dawn or A