I find it interesting that used alkaline cells, when used as a pair exhibit near identical voltages.
Typically, two Mitsubishi LR6 AA cells, removed from a wireless room thermostat, one 1.478 volt the other also 1.478 volt. Not the first time I have come across this.
Similarly, two brand new, unused Duracell Industrial Alkaline AA cells, both 1.600 volts.
All four cells tested off-load.
Clive