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Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010
--- | --- | ---
Current assets |  |
Customers and agents, less allowances of $21,337 and $24,455, respectively | $ 21,337 | $ 24,455
Other, less allowances of $2,200 and $1,361, respectively | 2,200 | 1,361
Investments |  |
Customer lists, net of accumulated amortization of $96,597 and $96,153, respectively | 96,597 | 96,153
U.S. Cellular shareholders' equity |  |
Shares authorized | 190,000 | 190,000
Shares issued | 88,074 | 88,074
Shares outstanding | 84,557 | 85,547
Par value | 88,074 | 88,074
Treasury shares | 3,517 | 2,527
Common Shares |  |
U.S. Cellular shareholders' equity |  |
Shares authorized | 140,000 | 140,000
Shares issued | 55,068 | 55,068
Shares outstanding | 51,551 | 52,541
Par value per share | $ 1.00 | $ 1.00
Par value | 55,068 | 55,068
Treasury shares | 3,517 | 2,527
Series A Common Shares |  |
U.S. Cellular shareholders' equity |  |
Shares authorized | 50,000 | 50,000
Shares issued | 33,006 | 33,006
Shares outstanding | 33,006 | 33,006
Par value per share | $ 1.00 | $ 1.00
Par value | $ 33,006 | $ 33,006

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