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Losses and Loss Expense Reserve (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 6 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended
--- | --- | ---
Jun. 30, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011
Summary of loss reserve roll-forward, net of subrogation recoverable and reinsurance |  |
Beginning balance of net loss reserves, net of subrogation recoverable and reinsurance | $ 6,230,780 | $ 4,424,450
Current year: |  |
Establishment of new loss reserves, gross of subrogation and net of reinsurance | 147,712 | 503,697
Claim payments, net of subrogation and reinsurance | (2,968) | (2,442)
Establishment of subrogation recoveries, net of reinsurance |  | (9,761)
Total current year | 144,744 | 491,494
Prior year: |  |
Change in previously established loss reserves, gross of subrogation and net of reinsurance | 662,809 | 1,683,831
Change in previously established subrogation recoveries, net of reinsurance | (64,420) | (324,151)
Claim recoveries (payments), net of subrogation recoverable and reinsurance | 28,705 | (179,440)
Total prior year | 627,094 | 1,180,240
Changes in loss reserves | 771,838 | 1,671,734
Net deconsolidation of certain VIEs |  | 134,596
Ending loss reserves, net of subrogation recoverable and reinsurance | $ 7,002,618 | $ 6,230,780

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