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Why isn't eBay more effective at sales?

I just can't get past this one....why isn't eBay more effective at coin sales? Specifically sales on coins that are worth over $500/1000 and higher? The pictures can be better, the description (if its coming from an knowledgable seller) is better, the terms should be MUCH better (20% spread that auction houses don't get), return privileges are better, etc.

I have a couple of theories:
1) There's too much junk on eBay (there are more fake trade dollars for sale right now than real ones)
2) There's too many crooks on eBay (scams, shills, stupidity)

It's too bad that eBay couldn't offer a high end premium service for high end sellers and buyers. I'd pay 1-2% on sales or buying fees if I knew that the buyers and sellers were trustworthy, honest and fair. I have no idea how you could limit admission to such a service but it would be a great liquidity market. How about sales of only PCGS, NGC, ANACS (and I could be convinced on SEGS and ICG) coins. How about better arbitration on disputes but one bad dispute someone gets booted or proscuted, better policing of the sites, etc.

I like ANR, Heritage, and most other auction houses but 20% seems a little steep these days. Paying someone to bid in an auction for another 5%, it all adds up.

keoj

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