I'll add another successful activation of a 4.94 vgc in an entirely different state, exp 7/34, all black packaging with gold/silver trim. I remember these being killed like 5+ years ago at another store in this state, with the auto-refund (which also randomly happens at sam's). My other successes were the new packaging that look exactly like the MC, exp 2034. Anyways, I wouldn't hesitate to try any 4.94 that I found anywhere, worst case scenario you get insta-refund(so don't use another gc to buy if you're unsure)