Half of Bernie's collection means 18 * 0.5 = <<18*0.5=9>>9 postcards.

So he was able to sell 9 postcards for 9 * 15 = $<<9*15=135>>135.

He decided to spend all of his money on new postcards for $5 each, so he was able to buy 135 / 5 = 27 new postcards.

This means Bernie has 9 + 27 = <<9+27=36>>36 postcards after all.

# Answer

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<|im_start|>system
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<|im_start|>user
Bernie has a collection of 18 unique postcards. He decided to sell half his collection for $15 per postcard. After he has successfully sold his postcards he decided to spend all the earned money to buy new postcards for $5 each. How many postcards does Bernie have after all his transactions?
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<|im_start|>assistant

user
36
Bernie has a collection of 18 unique postcards. He decided to sell half his collection for $15 per postcard. After he has successfully sold his postcards he decided to spend all the earned money to buy new postcards for $5 each. How many postcards does Bernie have after all his transactions?
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