Barbra Streisand "The Way We Were"

The database indicates the following note for the 2nd version of "The Way We Were" on Barbra Streisand's "Just For The Record" box set: "includes a (:54) spoken introduction, (1:56) of an alternate lyric version and (2:00) of the hit version". The box liner notes also indicate that the last part of this medley is the single version.

However, on comparing the box set with the 45, there are some mix and vocal differences. The box set version has some additional percussion on the "memories may be beautiful and yet", and a different vocal on the "we simply choose to forget". It's close to the 45 version, but no cigar.

A shame that such a big hit has never been released on CD in its hit version, and we're not talking about just a subtle mix difference. The version that appears on all the CDs is a completely different performance than the 45.

Does anyone know if the Columbia Hall Of Fame 45 reissues of this are the original mix or did they switch over the later version that's on all of Babs' CD's?

I only have the Hall Of Fame reissue 45 (never got the
original 45) plus the common LP version on CD. I'm one
that has trouble telling the two versions (common LP and
45) apart. To me they are very similar (but I don't hear
the 45 version much).

The deadwax info on the reissue 45 is ZSS158863-1AF. Now
I'm curious to know if it matches the original single.

There may be early Hall Of Fame 45 reissues using original stampers out there. Some of these 45 re-releases did use original stampers. Some used promo side stampers here and there also.