To me EBAY remains a marketplace of buyers and sellers and in this case I just have to side with the OP.
I don't think the OP has done anything wrong and at this point he deserves no grief for anything he's done. I'm happy for him getting a card he needs for his collection, and the fact that he brought the situation up means he's at least considered doing something for the lady if the card is legit. Any flack the OP is getting is misdirected.
Incurring the wrath of the CU forum isn't that difficult to figure out. Last month we raised almost 10 grand for the family of a deceased forum member. Now we are supposed to give high fives for someone who is cleaning up on a widow? Not smart to come on here and brag about possibly netting so much money from someone on a card.
People on here are going back and forth about morals and ethics but what is nice is that there are a core group of people on this forum that allow for trust and respect to be fostered. The reason why the B/S/T forum works so well is that people treat each other with respect, relying on the positive morals and principles to be the standard for all transactions. I'm not going to lecture anyone about what they should do, but it is nice to know a lot of people are willing to be fair and honest in the way we deal with each other here on the boards.
<< <i>The buyer knows an awful lot about the seller's circumstances and the card to be just someone who randomly found it and hit the buy it now button.
I think there's more to this than just someone who hit the buy button.
Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow.
If this is all true, I can understand the OPs excitement, but show an ounce of class by not publicly announcing that
"she obviously didn't know what she had"
"she was dumb to sell it and it's worth a lot more if it's real. Thank goodness she had already sent it lol."
"So her mistake is my gain I guess"
"So I feel bad for the lady in one sense as she def didn't know what she had." >>
I have nothing to add to this thread other than one observation--The guy making the biggest stink in this thread has no issues with contacting Ebay (he's mentioned it before in other threads as well) to do what he thinks is right, yet he's had threads about the finds at the Goodwill store he works at. Not to mention, but isn't he also the fake Gretzky guy? >>
I am the guy who sold a few fake Gretzky cards and the buyers knew they were fake. Also had quite a few members here (good, long standing members) ask for some when I offered them for free. I didn't make them, bought them as a kid for the purpose to add as set-fillers, and didn't understand the impact of counterfeit/reprint cards in the market until I joined these message boards.
With that said, I used to work at Goodwill and the examples I brought up on the board are not in the same class as what has happened here. Goodwill encourages good (sometimes unheard of) deals for the sole purpose to drive traffic into their stores. Goodwill is also a money machine, where the CEOs make a combined salary close to 100 million/year with another 100 million going to executive compensation. They do not need to worry about buying oil to heat their facilities.
There isn't anybody (not one person) in this thread "making the biggest stick" about the situation. You just skimmed the thread and focused on what I said, because, for some reason, you have some sort of ax to grind with me, and quite frankly I don't have time for pathetic people like you.
And, yes, I have no problem contacting someone on eBay to get their side of a story.
<< <i>What if $300 is all the OP could afford to spend on the card? Should it go to someone else who could afford more? Once again none of this matters. >>
I know a lot about Jeep Wranglers and plan to buy a 3-5 YO with mid mileage. It's worth $10-12k but I'm going to the dealership today with $300. Wish me luck >>
You mean they placed an ad in the newspaper selling one for $300? You better get there early, there may be a long line ahead of you.
<< <i>Lee, I understand what you are saying but there is still not a difference. She got what she wanted for the card. >>
I've been talking with her and she did not get what she wanted for the card and is upset about what happened. She wanted what the card is worth and was duped into believing it was worth less than $300.
She was first contacted by multiple eBay members who had the card on their watch list with intentions to bid big. They are the ones who informed the seller of the value of the card, not me.
She is trying to become a member here so she can address the issue.
I've been talking with her and she did not get what she wanted for the card and is upset about what happened. She wanted what the card is worth and was duped into believing it was worth less than $300.
Why are you even getting involved in this. Seems like you sure are going out of your way on this one yet I have a feeling if you were the buyer, you would have been singing a different tune. Let her come on here. It's not going to change the outcome. And how exactly does someone get duped into thinking it was worth less exactly? She obviously has a computer. She could have done some research. Sorry but whatever efforts you try, I believe this to be a done deal and a case closed.
To everyone else - if you get a steal of a deal either on eBay or Craigslist, please keep it to yourself because it seems we have a new sheriff in town.
TERRIFIC BUYER! Buyer: a***1 (Purple star icon for feedback score in between 500 to 999) During past month 1980 Charlotte O's Orioles Cal Ripken Orange border Police card (#251677614600) -- View Item
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card.
A few years ago a seller listed a 1986 Carnation Pack sealed with the Road Warriors and Rick Martel in it that had a similar array of items minus the "throngs". I emailed the seller and asked if they would end it early and take $25. They said they were a pawn shop and it had come in and just wanted to let it run. I put in my max bid of $150 just in case and won it for $16. Had they taken my low ball offer they would have come out ahead.
This seller could have easily looked at completed listings and saw that a card prior had been listed for a large sum and simply said let me just let the market decide the price. They chose not to and the item was paid for and feedback was left.
A few months back a William McKinley 1932 American Presidents card sold for $9.99 on EBAY. Unfortunately these things happen.
<< <i>Why are you even getting involved in this. Seems like you sure are going out of your way on this one yet I have a feeling if you were the buyer, you would have been singing a different tune. Let her come on here. It's not going to change the outcome. And how exactly does someone get duped into thinking it was worth less exactly? She obviously has a computer. She could have done some research. Sorry but whatever efforts you try, I believe this to be a done deal and a case closed.
To everyone else - if you get a steal of a deal either on eBay or Craigslist, please keep it to yourself because it seems we have a new sheriff in town. >>
My favorite post of the thread. Very well said DNice. Speaking only for myself, In the past, I've made what I thought were amazing deals that turned out great for me on Ebay, but have never shared for fear of drama and backlash. Granted I haven't made a deal as good as the OP did (if it comes back authentic, which the card looks 100% real to me), but I was hesitant to share nonetheless. This behavior will continue. Congrats to the OP for an amazing find I wish you the best with the grading results.
Always looking for OPC "tape intact" baseball wax boxes, and 1984 OPC baseball PSA 10's for my set. Please PM or email me if you have any available.
I find the judgements and ethical rationalizations in this thread a bit silly as we have all, at one time or another, made a poor business decision that has cost us (our family) money. The old saying, "buyer beware", is also valid when applied to selling items in an open market.
another thought......
How many of us have decent sized collections that we are leaving to family members once we pass? I would imagine, along with the collection, you are also going to leave some good documentation on what you have, what it is all worth, and how to sell it to (hopefully) prevent your family member from getting taken to the cleaners if they decided to sell the collection.
Bottom line, if you are selling stuff you know little/nothing about, you should probably seek assistance prior to selling the item.
last thought.....
As for the seller being upset that she sold an item for less than it's value.....this has been going on for years. Remember the Indians sold Manhatten for $24 worth of beads. Rather than make it up to them, the US Government pushed them into reservations and continued to take "their" lands. If you are going to pile on the OP for his purchase, you may as well stand up against the US Government for taking advantage of the Indians as well.
<< <i>The buyer knows an awful lot about the seller's circumstances and the card to be just someone who randomly found it and hit the buy it now button.
I think there's more to this than just someone who hit the buy button.
Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow.
If this is all true, I can understand the OPs excitement, but show an ounce of class by not publicly announcing that
"she obviously didn't know what she had"
"she was dumb to sell it and it's worth a lot more if it's real. Thank goodness she had already sent it lol."
"So her mistake is my gain I guess"
"So I feel bad for the lady in one sense as she def didn't know what she had." >>
I have nothing to add to this thread other than one observation--The guy making the biggest stink in this thread has no issues with contacting Ebay (he's mentioned it before in other threads as well) to do what he thinks is right, yet he's had threads about the finds at the Goodwill store he works at. Not to mention, but isn't he also the fake Gretzky guy? >>
I am the guy who sold a few fake Gretzky cards and the buyers knew they were fake. Also had quite a few members here (good, long standing members) ask for some when I offered them for free. I didn't make them, bought them as a kid for the purpose to add as set-fillers, and didn't understand the impact of counterfeit/reprint cards in the market until I joined these message boards.
With that said, I used to work at Goodwill and the examples I brought up on the board are not in the same class as what has happened here. Goodwill encourages good (sometimes unheard of) deals for the sole purpose to drive traffic into their stores. Goodwill is also a money machine, where the CEOs make a combined salary close to 100 million/year with another 100 million going to executive compensation. They do not need to worry about buying oil to heat their facilities.
There isn't anybody (not one person) in this thread "making the biggest stick" about the situation. You just skimmed the thread and focused on what I said, because, for some reason, you have some sort of ax to grind with me, and quite frankly I don't have time for pathetic people like you.
And, yes, I have no problem contacting someone on eBay to get their side of a story. >>
No axe to grind with you--I just find your hypocritical self-righteousness nauseating.
Maybe I just look at things differently--I came on these boards years ago to sell my husbands collection to pay for his medical bills. Did I get top dollar for his cards? No, not even close. Did I go into detail about why I needed the money? No. What I cared about was getting enough money to pay the bills and selling his cards at a fraction of their value got the job done.
The OP found a good deal on Ebay. The OP was happy, the seller was happy. If the OP decides to sweeten the pot for the seller, hey, that's on him. But no one here has the right to judge him or his decisions. And no one here should be stirring the pot contacting a seller or Ebay after a deal was done.
"Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow."
So continue on being the Ebay police, I'll go back to being one of the pathetic people you have no time for.
All this thread proves is that if you find a good deal anywhere, keep it to yourself.
<< <i>The buyer knows an awful lot about the seller's circumstances and the card to be just someone who randomly found it and hit the buy it now button.
I think there's more to this than just someone who hit the buy button.
Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow.
If this is all true, I can understand the OPs excitement, but show an ounce of class by not publicly announcing that
"she obviously didn't know what she had"
"she was dumb to sell it and it's worth a lot more if it's real. Thank goodness she had already sent it lol."
"So her mistake is my gain I guess"
"So I feel bad for the lady in one sense as she def didn't know what she had." >>
I have nothing to add to this thread other than one observation--The guy making the biggest stink in this thread has no issues with contacting Ebay (he's mentioned it before in other threads as well) to do what he thinks is right, yet he's had threads about the finds at the Goodwill store he works at. Not to mention, but isn't he also the fake Gretzky guy? >>
I am the guy who sold a few fake Gretzky cards and the buyers knew they were fake. Also had quite a few members here (good, long standing members) ask for some when I offered them for free. I didn't make them, bought them as a kid for the purpose to add as set-fillers, and didn't understand the impact of counterfeit/reprint cards in the market until I joined these message boards.
With that said, I used to work at Goodwill and the examples I brought up on the board are not in the same class as what has happened here. Goodwill encourages good (sometimes unheard of) deals for the sole purpose to drive traffic into their stores. Goodwill is also a money machine, where the CEOs make a combined salary close to 100 million/year with another 100 million going to executive compensation. They do not need to worry about buying oil to heat their facilities.
There isn't anybody (not one person) in this thread "making the biggest stick" about the situation. You just skimmed the thread and focused on what I said, because, for some reason, you have some sort of ax to grind with me, and quite frankly I don't have time for pathetic people like you.
And, yes, I have no problem contacting someone on eBay to get their side of a story. >>
No axe to grind with you--I just find your hypocritical self-righteousness nauseating.
Maybe I just look at things differently--I came on these boards years ago to sell my husbands collection to pay for his medical bills. Did I get top dollar for his cards? No, not even close. Did I go into detail about why I needed the money? No. What I cared about was getting enough money to pay the bills and selling his cards at a fraction of their value got the job done.
The OP found a good deal on Ebay. The OP was happy, the seller was happy. If the OP decides to sweeten the pot for the seller, hey, that's on him. But no one here has the right to judge him or his decisions. And no one here should be stirring the pot contacting a seller or Ebay after a deal was done.
"Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow."
So continue on being the Ebay police, I'll go back to being one of the pathetic people you have no time for.
All this thread proves is that if you find a good deal anywhere, keep it to yourself. >>
<< <i>I find the judgements and ethical rationalizations in this thread a bit silly as we have all, at one time or another, made a poor business decision that has cost us (our family) money. The old saying, "buyer beware", is also valid when applied to selling items in an open market.
another thought......
How many of us have decent sized collections that we are leaving to family members once we pass? I would imagine, along with the collection, you are also going to leave some good documentation on what you have, what it is all worth, and how to sell it to (hopefully) prevent your family member from getting taken to the cleaners if they decided to sell the collection.
Bottom line, if you are selling stuff you know little/nothing about, you should probably seek assistance prior to selling the item.
last thought.....
As for the seller being upset that she sold an item for less than it's value.....this has been going on for years. Remember the Indians sold Manhatten for $24 worth of beads. Rather than make it up to them, the US Government pushed them into reservations and continued to take "their" lands. If you are going to pile on the OP for his purchase, you may as well stand up against the US Government for taking advantage of the Indians as well. >>
I don't understand why people think the OP is getting piled on. He says he wasn't the one who offered $300 and that he is just an innocent bystander, someone who found a card and bought it.
I, as well as most everybody, has said "good job" and "good luck"
But, it reminds me of that Cosby Show scene with the trash can lid. It's all about the presentation. The OP came here cheering, skipping with joy that this elderly woman had something she didn't know she had. He seemed to be more happy with that then the actual card itself.
Native Americans didn't have the concept of ownership in their culture. In their minds, one couldn't own land, just as one couldn't own the sea or the sky. Probably wouldn't have mattered anyway, at a certain point they were going to be slaughtered.
Nowadays there is NO EXCUSE to sell something and not know what it is worth. It used to be that way. If anything now people think their items are worth more than they are worth. Bottom line if you have something that you think is even worth a little ($300), not making sure is on the SELLER......PEROID.
TERRIFIC BUYER! Buyer: a***1 (Purple star icon for feedback score in between 500 to 999) During past month 1980 Charlotte O's Orioles Cal Ripken Orange border Police card (#251677614600) -- View Item
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card.
A few years ago a seller listed a 1986 Carnation Pack sealed with the Road Warriors and Rick Martel in it that had a similar array of items minus the "throngs". I emailed the seller and asked if they would end it early and take $25. They said they were a pawn shop and it had come in and just wanted to let it run. I put in my max bid of $150 just in case and won it for $16. Had they taken my low ball offer they would have come out ahead.
This seller could have easily looked at completed listings and saw that a card prior had been listed for a large sum and simply said let me just let the market decide the price. They chose not to and the item was paid for and feedback was left.
A few months back a William McKinley 1932 American Presidents card sold for $9.99 on EBAY. Unfortunately these things happen. >>
The McKinley deal never went through...the seller never sent it out and backed out of the deal. In fact, it was recently graded and listed in the most recent REA auction (Lot 15 currently up to $80000).
Perhaps the solution to this is simple: What is the amount the original poster would have paid for the card if it were a PSA 5? Maybe he should take that amount, subtract off a little so that it is a "deal" and give that amount to her minus the $300. Of course all of this is dependent on the believability of her story. I don't think there is a threshold for profit as Dpeck100 has said. But there seems to be a moral dilemma here. It is that dilemma that the OP has to contend with. In the end, he is the one in the situation and he is the one who has to live with whatever choice he makes. In my opinion, whatever he decides is perfectly reasonable and he has no true obligation to do anything.
I mean it's not like he held a gun to her head and forced her to sell it for $300. She willingly did it and was pleased with the amount until someone told her she shouldn't be. Damn the Internet and the easy exchange of information!
Kevin
I collect PSA cards of the following: Billy Ripken Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002 Cal Ripken, Sr. Hall of Fame Rookies
It seems people's comparison skills are not good. People, at numerous points in this thread, compare apples and kumquats. I won't mention each of them but they make no sense to me.
This is simple and both "sides" are right.
1) If you sell crap on Ebay do your homework and when in doubt LET THE AUCTION RUN. I sell stuff that I know nothing about. I let it run! Never set a BIN on anything you are unsure about. 2) OP owes the lady nothing. 3) If OP actually sells the card for $10k it wouldn't kill him to drop a grand in this little old lady's Paypal account. Does he morally have to? NO. Is it good karma? Yes.
TERRIFIC BUYER! Buyer: a***1 (Purple star icon for feedback score in between 500 to 999) During past month 1980 Charlotte O's Orioles Cal Ripken Orange border Police card (#251677614600) -- View Item
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card.
A few years ago a seller listed a 1986 Carnation Pack sealed with the Road Warriors and Rick Martel in it that had a similar array of items minus the "throngs". I emailed the seller and asked if they would end it early and take $25. They said they were a pawn shop and it had come in and just wanted to let it run. I put in my max bid of $150 just in case and won it for $16. Had they taken my low ball offer they would have come out ahead.
This seller could have easily looked at completed listings and saw that a card prior had been listed for a large sum and simply said let me just let the market decide the price. They chose not to and the item was paid for and feedback was left.
A few months back a William McKinley 1932 American Presidents card sold for $9.99 on EBAY. Unfortunately these things happen. >>
The McKinley deal never went through...the seller never sent it out and backed out of the deal. In fact, it was recently graded and listed in the most recent REA auction (Lot 15 currently up to $80000). >>
A friend if mine got a 1914 Sholess Joe Jackson off of eBay once for about $3. He keeps it off the boards for this exact reason.
<< <i>It seems people's comparison skills are not good. People, at numerous points in this thread, compare apples and kumquats. I won't mention each of them but they make no sense to me.
This is simple and both "sides" are right.
1) If you sell crap on Ebay do your homework and when in doubt LET THE AUCTION RUN. I sell stuff that I know nothing about. I let it run! Never set a BIN on anything you are unsure about. 2) OP owes the lady nothing. 3) If OP actually sells the card for $10k it wouldn't kill him to drop a grand in this little old lady's Paypal account. Does he morally have to? NO. Is it good karma? Yes.
That's my take. >>
I often set very high BINs with Best Offers on stuff I know nothing about because I've been burned by auctions too. It can give a good indication of value this way.
Kevin
I collect PSA cards of the following: Billy Ripken Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002 Cal Ripken, Sr. Hall of Fame Rookies
<< <i>What would be interesting is the Mckinley buyer filing a lawsuit. The eBay user agreement clearly states a contract takes place between the buyer and seller. Most people would not sue over $100 but $100,000 might change the equation. Also, a non paying bidder is fair game, under this scenario / contractual obligation (unless under the age of 18 but then violating eBay's TOS). >>
I read somewhere that with ebay's new TOS, a buyer will have 24 hours to "cancel" their winning bid after the auction ends. Not sure if that change has been implemented as of yet. Ebay really does nothing to enforce the committment of a winning bid anymore.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
Since this all seems to be such a hotly contested issue, the OP is welcome to send me the card for $300 and let me decide! I'll even pay $400 for it. Problem solved.
Kevin
I collect PSA cards of the following: Billy Ripken Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002 Cal Ripken, Sr. Hall of Fame Rookies
I often set very high BINs with Best Offers on stuff I know nothing about because I've been burned by auctions too. It can give a good indication of value this way.
Kevin >>
I disagree. You are not "burned." The crap is SOLD and GONE. You reduce the chances on selling an item for substantially below it's "fair market value" (whatever that means) by having an auction.
I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items.
<< <i>If you won one of these warehouse storage war auctions for lets say ...$100 and inside you found the first issue of Superman or maybe a pair of PSA 8 52 Mantles inside, I am POSITIVE you would NOT go out and search for the original owner of the storage warehouse to give them a cut. So then why would this be any different?
It's different because it's different. It's different in the same way that stealing $20 from a criminal to give to charity is different from stealing $20 from a child to buy heroine. You can't just look at the main event in a situation and conclude it's the same as other situations with the same main event. Every situation has variables that make it different and unique, and those variables need to be taken into account.
In this case, the OP had dialogue with the seller. He got to know her a little and know her situation, and at that point it became a little more than a typical ebay transaction where you hit BIN, pay and a card shows up a few days later with no words exchanged. She entered his life to a certain degree, just like DPeck's Black Lotus guy that he didn't feel comfortable taking advantage of. The fact that the communication has occurred through the internet shouldn't change how we approach things. It is no longer an anonymous transaction, and the moral and ethical rules that govern how we treat other people need to kick in. David, let me ask you this: If the lady brought the card over to your house, explained her situation in exactly the same terms and said she didn't know what it was worth but she'd take $300 for it..... do you throw three bills at her and tell her to hit the bricks? Or do you treat it differently because now she's face to face?
You are correct in your view that ebay is a market and you have to play the game in order to come out ahead. But always keep in mind that you're not dealing with robots- there are people on the other end of the transaction. I know you're not a bad dude and I'm sure you've treated people well over the years. But buying this card from this lady is vastly different than hopping on e*trade and buying a couple shares of IBM.
Lee >>
I honestly can't relate to someone who doesn't do an ounce of research before listing a collectible online. I get random emails from time to time from my little website and generally they are offering me cards at whatever the prices they see on EBAY or perhaps something they read in a message board thread. Sometimes even higher.
Lee you are in the business of buying and selling collectibles. If I have a bunch of raw cards and you purchase them and get them graded your immediate game plan is to win. Once the buyer and seller agree on a price it is over.
If someone came to me and said I have these cards for sale and I want X, I just don't see it as my responsibility to tell them that is to low. Where did they get the price they are asking? A friend, a price guide, an amount they had invested, perhaps a number to pay a bill? There any number of answers to the question.
I have sold a few wrestling cards to board members and they offered me X and I said that was to high and sold them for less. There was a personal element involved in those situations. I guess the issue becomes where do you draw the line between personal and not.
To me EBAY remains a marketplace of buyers and sellers and in this case I just have to side with the OP. Think how many times a low pop common hits or where a card was bought raw and the value is catapulted by thousands of percent once graded. Why are these okay and hitting a Buy It Now is not? This lady it doesn't appear lost money. She missed out on money.
I am guilty of sending offers to sellers to end an item in a buy it now that was below what I thought the item was worth. Admittedly I like to try and get items at a price that I feel works for me. On the flip side I am also guilty of over paying for a card to keep it out of someone else's collection.
Once an item is listed I view it as fair game. If I am a bad guy for thinking this way I guess that is just how it is. >>
I agree with this. eBay is a shark tank. Once you drop your line in the water, whatever happens within the rules is fair game.
Kevin
I collect PSA cards of the following: Billy Ripken Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002 Cal Ripken, Sr. Hall of Fame Rookies
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
This has crossed my mind as well. >>
Apparently quite a few people have the time, as I understand people have been messaging her asking her if she has any more copies of that Ripken card.
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
This has crossed my mind as well. >>
Apparently quite a few people have the time, as I understand people have been messaging her asking her if she has any more copies of that Ripken card. >>
<< <i>Lee is 100% correct. I feel sick just reading this thread. Making a good deal on Ebay is fine; making $12000 profit off a naive eldery woman is an altogether different situation. >>
<< <i>Lee is 100% correct. I feel sick just reading this thread. Making a good deal on Ebay is fine; making $12000 profit off a naive eldery woman is an altogether different situation. >>
Well said. >>
Maybe the card is a fake and "she" is actually a young talented counterfeiter!
2013,14 and 15 Certificate Award Winner Harmon Killebrew Master Set and Master Topps Set
<< <i>Lee is 100% correct. I feel sick just reading this thread. Making a good deal on Ebay is fine; making $12000 profit off a naive eldery woman is an altogether different situation. >>
Well said. >>
Maybe the card is a fake and "she" is actually a young talented counterfeiter! >>
She does sell "throngs" after all.
There is to much profit potential here and it has clouded many's judgement.
Hey, do what you got to do. Make money, make money, make money. That's all that matters. You got ripped off? Well shame on you for not knowing better.
But sooner or later, life will kick in. And in life, everyone needs somebody. Some people know this, others will learn it the hard way.
I have to say, I've learned a great deal from this thread about members of this board. I'm not saying people should shy from a goo deal, but there's a difference.
<< <i>Hey, do what you got to do. Make money, make money, make money. That's all that matters. You got ripped off? Well shame on you for not knowing better.
But sooner or later, life will kick in. And in life, everyone needs somebody. Some people know this, others will learn it the hard way.
I have to say, I've learned a great deal from this thread about members of this board. I'm not saying people should shy from a goo deal, but there's a difference. >>
I fall into the evil money, money, money, category who thinks that someone who is capable of listing hundreds of items on EBAY should do a little market research.
Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did something stupid?
I don't know the answer to this question. >>
Hard to take advantage of someone who does something smart.
Seller ended auction early saying there was an error in the listing to (apparently) take advantage of an offer that was three times the opening bid.
Seller looks to me to have been on ebay for over a year and should know to check out every item listed. ESPECIALLY from famous players. Had she listed some obscure (Littlefield?) players error card, that might be a little different.
She MUST have had some idea that it was valuable when she first listed a pretty beat up card for opening bid of $100.00!
No one took advantage of her! In fact, I think she made a greedy grab for money by improperly ending an auction. I realize it's done all the time, but she should have let the auction run and would certainly gotten a lot more money.
If those of you who actually feel sorry for her want to put your money where your mouth is, send her some cash!
2013,14 and 15 Certificate Award Winner Harmon Killebrew Master Set and Master Topps Set
I wouldn't be surprised if the seller bought a box of cards (since she also sells misc items) and that card just happened to be in the pile. What's funny is that if this was the other way around and lets say that the seller was a known board member here and sold a card online but then realized that it was worth a heck of a lot more, everyone on here would be telling the seller to honor the sale regardless. For all we know, maybe the seller isn't even who she says she is. How many sob stories have we heard time and time again? For those who are truly concerned about her well being, maybe you should put that time and energy into donating funds to her directly and helping her out instead of maybe sending her emails "all day" and probably making her feel even worse (if her story is even true).
<< <i>Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did something stupid? >>
I think the answer to this depends upon what kind of person you want to be, or to be known as. I think this sums up what Lee said earlier.
I also think the potential profit motive here has skewed judgment significantly, and while I do understand the marketplace argument it's clear that this situation has turned into something more than just a normal buy and sell.
And finally, the trolls who are reaching out to her on eBay are pitiful. You had ZERO involvement in this sale, interjecting yourself into it under the guise of gathering information is pathetic.
<< <i>Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did something stupid? >>
I think the answer to this depends upon what kind of person you want to be, or to be known as. I think this sums up what Lee said earlier.
I also think the potential profit motive here has skewed judgment significantly, and while I do understand the marketplace argument it's clear that this situation has turned into something more than just a normal buy and sell.
And finally, the trolls who are reaching out to her on eBay are pitiful. You had ZERO involvement in this sale, interjecting yourself into it under the guise of gathering information is pathetic. >>
I bet you were the one who originally offered $300
<< <i>Hey, do what you got to do. Make money, make money, make money. That's all that matters. You got ripped off? Well shame on you for not knowing better.
But sooner or later, life will kick in. And in life, everyone needs somebody. Some people know this, others will learn it the hard way.
I have to say, I've learned a great deal from this thread about members of this board. I'm not saying people should shy from a goo deal, but there's a difference. >>
I fall into the evil money, money, money, category who thinks that someone who is capable of listing hundreds of items on EBAY should do a little market research.
This is the most expensive item this seller has sold in their recent sales run by a mile.
It wouldn't surprise me if the seller was doing cart wheels for getting this much cash in from a sale.[/q
That's cool. We all have to make our own decisions on what is and what is not acceptable. I'm not here to say that one path is better or worse than the next. I'm just saying that this is a much smaller hobby community than we think it is. Do what you want and what you do will determine what happens.
Comments
I don't think the OP has done anything wrong and at this point he deserves no grief for anything he's done. I'm happy for him getting a card he needs for his collection, and the fact that he brought the situation up means he's at least considered doing something for the lady if the card is legit. Any flack the OP is getting is misdirected.
Lee
People on here are going back and forth about morals and ethics but what is nice is that there are a core group of people on this forum that allow for trust and respect to be fostered. The reason why the B/S/T forum works so well is that people treat each other with respect, relying on the positive morals and principles to be the standard for all transactions. I'm not going to lecture anyone about what they should do, but it is nice to know a lot of people are willing to be fair and honest in the way we deal with each other here on the boards.
-Nathanael
<< <i>
<< <i>The buyer knows an awful lot about the seller's circumstances and the card to be just someone who randomly found it and hit the buy it now button.
I think there's more to this than just someone who hit the buy button.
Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow.
If this is all true, I can understand the OPs excitement, but show an ounce of class by not publicly announcing that
"she obviously didn't know what she had"
"she was dumb to sell it and it's worth a lot more if it's real. Thank goodness she had already sent it lol."
"So her mistake is my gain I guess"
"So I feel bad for the lady in one sense as she def didn't know what she had." >>
I have nothing to add to this thread other than one observation--The guy making the biggest stink in this thread has no issues with contacting Ebay (he's mentioned it before in other threads as well) to do what he thinks is right, yet he's had threads about the finds at the Goodwill store he works at. Not to mention, but isn't he also the fake Gretzky guy? >>
I am the guy who sold a few fake Gretzky cards and the buyers knew they were fake. Also had quite a few members here (good, long standing members) ask for some when I offered them for free. I didn't make them, bought them as a kid for the purpose to add as set-fillers, and didn't understand the impact of counterfeit/reprint cards in the market until I joined these message boards.
With that said, I used to work at Goodwill and the examples I brought up on the board are not in the same class as what has happened here. Goodwill encourages good (sometimes unheard of) deals for the sole purpose to drive traffic into their stores. Goodwill is also a money machine, where the CEOs make a combined salary close to 100 million/year with another 100 million going to executive compensation. They do not need to worry about buying oil to heat their facilities.
There isn't anybody (not one person) in this thread "making the biggest stick" about the situation. You just skimmed the thread and focused on what I said, because, for some reason, you have some sort of ax to grind with me, and quite frankly I don't have time for pathetic people like you.
And, yes, I have no problem contacting someone on eBay to get their side of a story.
<< <i>
<< <i>What if $300 is all the OP could afford to spend on the card? Should it go to someone else who could afford more? Once again none of this matters. >>
I know a lot about Jeep Wranglers and plan to buy a 3-5 YO with mid mileage. It's worth $10-12k but I'm going to the dealership today with $300. Wish me luck
You mean they placed an ad in the newspaper selling one for $300? You better get there early, there may be a long line ahead of you.
<< <i>Lee, I understand what you are saying but there is still not a difference. She got what she wanted for the card. >>
I've been talking with her and she did not get what she wanted for the card and is upset about what happened. She wanted what the card is worth and was duped into believing it was worth less than $300.
She was first contacted by multiple eBay members who had the card on their watch list with intentions to bid big. They are the ones who informed the seller of the value of the card, not me.
She is trying to become a member here so she can address the issue.
Why are you even getting involved in this. Seems like you sure are going out of your way on this one yet I have a feeling if you were the buyer, you would have been singing a different tune. Let her come on here. It's not going to change the outcome. And how exactly does someone get duped into thinking it was worth less exactly? She obviously has a computer. She could have done some research. Sorry but whatever efforts you try, I believe this to be a done deal and a case closed.
To everyone else - if you get a steal of a deal either on eBay or Craigslist, please keep it to yourself because it seems we have a new sheriff in town.
Auction
Within 12 minutes it is sold as a BIN.
BIN
Feedback
TERRIFIC BUYER! Buyer: a***1 (Purple star icon for feedback score in between 500 to 999) During past month
1980 Charlotte O's Orioles Cal Ripken Orange border Police card (#251677614600) -- View Item
Prior listing
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card.
A few years ago a seller listed a 1986 Carnation Pack sealed with the Road Warriors and Rick Martel in it that had a similar array of items minus the "throngs". I emailed the seller and asked if they would end it early and take $25. They said they were a pawn shop and it had come in and just wanted to let it run. I put in my max bid of $150 just in case and won it for $16. Had they taken my low ball offer they would have come out ahead.
This seller could have easily looked at completed listings and saw that a card prior had been listed for a large sum and simply said let me just let the market decide the price. They chose not to and the item was paid for and feedback was left.
A few months back a William McKinley 1932 American Presidents card sold for $9.99 on EBAY. Unfortunately these things happen.
<< <i>Why are you even getting involved in this. Seems like you sure are going out of your way on this one yet I have a feeling if you were the buyer, you would have been singing a different tune. Let her come on here. It's not going to change the outcome. And how exactly does someone get duped into thinking it was worth less exactly? She obviously has a computer. She could have done some research. Sorry but whatever efforts you try, I believe this to be a done deal and a case closed.
To everyone else - if you get a steal of a deal either on eBay or Craigslist, please keep it to yourself because it seems we have a new sheriff in town. >>
My favorite post of the thread. Very well said DNice. Speaking only for myself, In the past, I've made what I thought were amazing deals that turned out great for me on Ebay, but have never shared for fear of drama and backlash. Granted I haven't made a deal as good as the OP did (if it comes back authentic, which the card looks 100% real to me), but I was hesitant to share nonetheless. This behavior will continue. Congrats to the OP for an amazing find I wish you the best with the grading results.
<< <i>Prior listing
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card. >>
which is another horsecrap auction, since the same seller just listed it again with a BIN of $12,500
this is getting ridiculous.
another thought......
How many of us have decent sized collections that we are leaving to family members once we pass? I would imagine, along with the collection, you are also going to leave some good documentation on what you have, what it is all worth, and how to sell it to (hopefully) prevent your family member from getting taken to the cleaners if they decided to sell the collection.
Bottom line, if you are selling stuff you know little/nothing about, you should probably seek assistance prior to selling the item.
last thought.....
As for the seller being upset that she sold an item for less than it's value.....this has been going on for years. Remember the Indians sold Manhatten for $24 worth of beads. Rather than make it up to them, the US Government pushed them into reservations and continued to take "their" lands. If you are going to pile on the OP for his purchase, you may as well stand up against the US Government for taking advantage of the Indians as well.
Website
Ebay Store
Kiss me twice.....let's party.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>The buyer knows an awful lot about the seller's circumstances and the card to be just someone who randomly found it and hit the buy it now button.
I think there's more to this than just someone who hit the buy button.
Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow.
If this is all true, I can understand the OPs excitement, but show an ounce of class by not publicly announcing that
"she obviously didn't know what she had"
"she was dumb to sell it and it's worth a lot more if it's real. Thank goodness she had already sent it lol."
"So her mistake is my gain I guess"
"So I feel bad for the lady in one sense as she def didn't know what she had." >>
I have nothing to add to this thread other than one observation--The guy making the biggest stink in this thread has no issues with contacting Ebay (he's mentioned it before in other threads as well) to do what he thinks is right, yet he's had threads about the finds at the Goodwill store he works at. Not to mention, but isn't he also the fake Gretzky guy? >>
I am the guy who sold a few fake Gretzky cards and the buyers knew they were fake. Also had quite a few members here (good, long standing members) ask for some when I offered them for free. I didn't make them, bought them as a kid for the purpose to add as set-fillers, and didn't understand the impact of counterfeit/reprint cards in the market until I joined these message boards.
With that said, I used to work at Goodwill and the examples I brought up on the board are not in the same class as what has happened here. Goodwill encourages good (sometimes unheard of) deals for the sole purpose to drive traffic into their stores. Goodwill is also a money machine, where the CEOs make a combined salary close to 100 million/year with another 100 million going to executive compensation. They do not need to worry about buying oil to heat their facilities.
There isn't anybody (not one person) in this thread "making the biggest stick" about the situation. You just skimmed the thread and focused on what I said, because, for some reason, you have some sort of ax to grind with me, and quite frankly I don't have time for pathetic people like you.
And, yes, I have no problem contacting someone on eBay to get their side of a story. >>
No axe to grind with you--I just find your hypocritical self-righteousness nauseating.
Maybe I just look at things differently--I came on these boards years ago to sell my husbands collection to pay for his medical bills. Did I get top dollar for his cards? No, not even close. Did I go into detail about why I needed the money? No. What I cared about was getting enough money to pay the bills and selling his cards at a fraction of their value got the job done.
The OP found a good deal on Ebay. The OP was happy, the seller was happy. If the OP decides to sweeten the pot for the seller, hey, that's on him. But no one here has the right to judge him or his decisions. And no one here should be stirring the pot contacting a seller or Ebay after a deal was done.
"Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow."
So continue on being the Ebay police, I'll go back to being one of the pathetic people you have no time for.
All this thread proves is that if you find a good deal anywhere, keep it to yourself.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>The buyer knows an awful lot about the seller's circumstances and the card to be just someone who randomly found it and hit the buy it now button.
I think there's more to this than just someone who hit the buy button.
Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow.
If this is all true, I can understand the OPs excitement, but show an ounce of class by not publicly announcing that
"she obviously didn't know what she had"
"she was dumb to sell it and it's worth a lot more if it's real. Thank goodness she had already sent it lol."
"So her mistake is my gain I guess"
"So I feel bad for the lady in one sense as she def didn't know what she had." >>
I have nothing to add to this thread other than one observation--The guy making the biggest stink in this thread has no issues with contacting Ebay (he's mentioned it before in other threads as well) to do what he thinks is right, yet he's had threads about the finds at the Goodwill store he works at. Not to mention, but isn't he also the fake Gretzky guy? >>
I am the guy who sold a few fake Gretzky cards and the buyers knew they were fake. Also had quite a few members here (good, long standing members) ask for some when I offered them for free. I didn't make them, bought them as a kid for the purpose to add as set-fillers, and didn't understand the impact of counterfeit/reprint cards in the market until I joined these message boards.
With that said, I used to work at Goodwill and the examples I brought up on the board are not in the same class as what has happened here. Goodwill encourages good (sometimes unheard of) deals for the sole purpose to drive traffic into their stores. Goodwill is also a money machine, where the CEOs make a combined salary close to 100 million/year with another 100 million going to executive compensation. They do not need to worry about buying oil to heat their facilities.
There isn't anybody (not one person) in this thread "making the biggest stick" about the situation. You just skimmed the thread and focused on what I said, because, for some reason, you have some sort of ax to grind with me, and quite frankly I don't have time for pathetic people like you.
And, yes, I have no problem contacting someone on eBay to get their side of a story. >>
No axe to grind with you--I just find your hypocritical self-righteousness nauseating.
Maybe I just look at things differently--I came on these boards years ago to sell my husbands collection to pay for his medical bills. Did I get top dollar for his cards? No, not even close. Did I go into detail about why I needed the money? No. What I cared about was getting enough money to pay the bills and selling his cards at a fraction of their value got the job done.
The OP found a good deal on Ebay. The OP was happy, the seller was happy. If the OP decides to sweeten the pot for the seller, hey, that's on him. But no one here has the right to judge him or his decisions. And no one here should be stirring the pot contacting a seller or Ebay after a deal was done.
"Even though there isn't much she can do to get her card back, eBay has been contacted with both user IDs and all correspondences to see if they are connected somehow."
So continue on being the Ebay police, I'll go back to being one of the pathetic people you have no time for.
All this thread proves is that if you find a good deal anywhere, keep it to yourself. >>
I didn't contact eBay.
<< <i>I find the judgements and ethical rationalizations in this thread a bit silly as we have all, at one time or another, made a poor business decision that has cost us (our family) money. The old saying, "buyer beware", is also valid when applied to selling items in an open market.
another thought......
How many of us have decent sized collections that we are leaving to family members once we pass? I would imagine, along with the collection, you are also going to leave some good documentation on what you have, what it is all worth, and how to sell it to (hopefully) prevent your family member from getting taken to the cleaners if they decided to sell the collection.
Bottom line, if you are selling stuff you know little/nothing about, you should probably seek assistance prior to selling the item.
last thought.....
As for the seller being upset that she sold an item for less than it's value.....this has been going on for years. Remember the Indians sold Manhatten for $24 worth of beads. Rather than make it up to them, the US Government pushed them into reservations and continued to take "their" lands. If you are going to pile on the OP for his purchase, you may as well stand up against the US Government for taking advantage of the Indians as well. >>
I don't understand why people think the OP is getting piled on. He says he wasn't the one who offered $300 and that he is just an innocent bystander, someone who found a card and bought it.
I, as well as most everybody, has said "good job" and "good luck"
But, it reminds me of that Cosby Show scene with the trash can lid. It's all about the presentation. The OP came here cheering, skipping with joy that this elderly woman had something she didn't know she had. He seemed to be more happy with that then the actual card itself.
<< <i>Has anyone speculated on the grade? I can't tell what is up with top right corner, but I could see that pulling a PSA 5. >>
I'm thinking more like a 3 or 4
IMF
Lesson learned here. If you make a killer find. Do not post about it on a forum.
Bottom line if you have something that you think is even worth a little ($300), not making sure is on the SELLER......PEROID.
<< <i>Here is the first listing that was ended at 10:17
Auction
Within 12 minutes it is sold as a BIN.
BIN
Feedback
TERRIFIC BUYER! Buyer: a***1 (Purple star icon for feedback score in between 500 to 999) During past month
1980 Charlotte O's Orioles Cal Ripken Orange border Police card (#251677614600) -- View Item
Prior listing
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card.
A few years ago a seller listed a 1986 Carnation Pack sealed with the Road Warriors and Rick Martel in it that had a similar array of items minus the "throngs". I emailed the seller and asked if they would end it early and take $25. They said they were a pawn shop and it had come in and just wanted to let it run. I put in my max bid of $150 just in case and won it for $16. Had they taken my low ball offer they would have come out ahead.
This seller could have easily looked at completed listings and saw that a card prior had been listed for a large sum and simply said let me just let the market decide the price. They chose not to and the item was paid for and feedback was left.
A few months back a William McKinley 1932 American Presidents card sold for $9.99 on EBAY. Unfortunately these things happen. >>
The McKinley deal never went through...the seller never sent it out and backed out of the deal. In fact, it was recently graded and listed in the most recent REA auction (Lot 15 currently up to $80000).
I mean it's not like he held a gun to her head and forced her to sell it for $300. She willingly did it and was pleased with the amount until someone told her she shouldn't be. Damn the Internet and the easy exchange of information!
Kevin
Billy Ripken
Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002
Cal Ripken, Sr.
Hall of Fame Rookies
This is simple and both "sides" are right.
1) If you sell crap on Ebay do your homework and when in doubt LET THE AUCTION RUN. I sell stuff that I know nothing about. I let it run! Never set a BIN on anything you are unsure about.
2) OP owes the lady nothing.
3) If OP actually sells the card for $10k it wouldn't kill him to drop a grand in this little old lady's Paypal account. Does he morally have to? NO. Is it good karma? Yes.
That's my take.
<< <i>
<< <i>Here is the first listing that was ended at 10:17
Auction
Within 12 minutes it is sold as a BIN.
BIN
Feedback
TERRIFIC BUYER! Buyer: a***1 (Purple star icon for feedback score in between 500 to 999) During past month
1980 Charlotte O's Orioles Cal Ripken Orange border Police card (#251677614600) -- View Item
Prior listing
A simple quick look at completed auctions or a Google search would have returned this card.
A few years ago a seller listed a 1986 Carnation Pack sealed with the Road Warriors and Rick Martel in it that had a similar array of items minus the "throngs". I emailed the seller and asked if they would end it early and take $25. They said they were a pawn shop and it had come in and just wanted to let it run. I put in my max bid of $150 just in case and won it for $16. Had they taken my low ball offer they would have come out ahead.
This seller could have easily looked at completed listings and saw that a card prior had been listed for a large sum and simply said let me just let the market decide the price. They chose not to and the item was paid for and feedback was left.
A few months back a William McKinley 1932 American Presidents card sold for $9.99 on EBAY. Unfortunately these things happen. >>
The McKinley deal never went through...the seller never sent it out and backed out of the deal. In fact, it was recently graded and listed in the most recent REA auction (Lot 15 currently up to $80000). >>
A friend if mine got a 1914 Sholess Joe Jackson off of eBay once for about $3. He keeps it off the boards for this exact reason.
<< <i>It seems people's comparison skills are not good. People, at numerous points in this thread, compare apples and kumquats. I won't mention each of them but they make no sense to me.
This is simple and both "sides" are right.
1) If you sell crap on Ebay do your homework and when in doubt LET THE AUCTION RUN. I sell stuff that I know nothing about. I let it run! Never set a BIN on anything you are unsure about.
2) OP owes the lady nothing.
3) If OP actually sells the card for $10k it wouldn't kill him to drop a grand in this little old lady's Paypal account. Does he morally have to? NO. Is it good karma? Yes.
That's my take. >>
I often set very high BINs with Best Offers on stuff I know nothing about because I've been burned by auctions too. It can give a good indication of value this way.
Kevin
Billy Ripken
Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002
Cal Ripken, Sr.
Hall of Fame Rookies
<< <i>What would be interesting is the Mckinley buyer filing a lawsuit. The eBay user agreement clearly states a contract takes place between the buyer and seller. Most people would not sue over $100 but $100,000 might change the equation. Also, a non paying bidder is fair game, under this scenario / contractual obligation (unless under the age of 18 but then violating eBay's TOS). >>
I read somewhere that with ebay's new TOS, a buyer will have 24 hours to "cancel" their winning bid after the auction ends. Not sure if that change has been implemented as of yet. Ebay really does nothing to enforce the committment of a winning bid anymore.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
Kevin
Billy Ripken
Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002
Cal Ripken, Sr.
Hall of Fame Rookies
<< <i>
I often set very high BINs with Best Offers on stuff I know nothing about because I've been burned by auctions too. It can give a good indication of value this way.
Kevin >>
I disagree. You are not "burned." The crap is SOLD and GONE. You reduce the chances on selling an item for substantially below it's "fair market value" (whatever that means) by having an auction.
<< <i>
<< <i>If you won one of these warehouse storage war auctions for lets say ...$100 and inside you found the first issue of Superman or maybe a pair of PSA 8 52 Mantles inside, I am POSITIVE you would NOT go out and search for the original owner of the storage warehouse to give them a cut. So then why would this be any different?
It's different because it's different. It's different in the same way that stealing $20 from a criminal to give to charity is different from stealing $20 from a child to buy heroine. You can't just look at the main event in a situation and conclude it's the same as other situations with the same main event. Every situation has variables that make it different and unique, and those variables need to be taken into account.
In this case, the OP had dialogue with the seller. He got to know her a little and know her situation, and at that point it became a little more than a typical ebay transaction where you hit BIN, pay and a card shows up a few days later with no words exchanged. She entered his life to a certain degree, just like DPeck's Black Lotus guy that he didn't feel comfortable taking advantage of. The fact that the communication has occurred through the internet shouldn't change how we approach things. It is no longer an anonymous transaction, and the moral and ethical rules that govern how we treat other people need to kick in. David, let me ask you this: If the lady brought the card over to your house, explained her situation in exactly the same terms and said she didn't know what it was worth but she'd take $300 for it..... do you throw three bills at her and tell her to hit the bricks? Or do you treat it differently because now she's face to face?
You are correct in your view that ebay is a market and you have to play the game in order to come out ahead. But always keep in mind that you're not dealing with robots- there are people on the other end of the transaction. I know you're not a bad dude and I'm sure you've treated people well over the years. But buying this card from this lady is vastly different than hopping on e*trade and buying a couple shares of IBM.
Lee >>
I honestly can't relate to someone who doesn't do an ounce of research before listing a collectible online. I get random emails from time to time from my little website and generally they are offering me cards at whatever the prices they see on EBAY or perhaps something they read in a message board thread. Sometimes even higher.
Lee you are in the business of buying and selling collectibles. If I have a bunch of raw cards and you purchase them and get them graded your immediate game plan is to win. Once the buyer and seller agree on a price it is over.
If someone came to me and said I have these cards for sale and I want X, I just don't see it as my responsibility to tell them that is to low. Where did they get the price they are asking? A friend, a price guide, an amount they had invested, perhaps a number to pay a bill? There any number of answers to the question.
I have sold a few wrestling cards to board members and they offered me X and I said that was to high and sold them for less. There was a personal element involved in those situations.
I guess the issue becomes where do you draw the line between personal and not.
To me EBAY remains a marketplace of buyers and sellers and in this case I just have to side with the OP. Think how many times a low pop common hits or where a card was bought raw and the value is catapulted by thousands of percent once graded. Why are these okay and hitting a Buy It Now is not? This lady it doesn't appear lost money. She missed out on money.
I am guilty of sending offers to sellers to end an item in a buy it now that was below what I thought the item was worth. Admittedly I like to try and get items at a price that I feel works for me. On the flip side I am also guilty of over paying for a card to keep it out of someone else's collection.
Once an item is listed I view it as fair game. If I am a bad guy for thinking this way I guess that is just how it is. >>
I agree with this. eBay is a shark tank. Once you drop your line in the water, whatever happens within the rules is fair game.
Kevin
Billy Ripken
Cal Ripken, Jr. 1980-2002
Cal Ripken, Sr.
Hall of Fame Rookies
Looking for 1970 MLB Photostamps
- uncut
Positive Transactions - tennesseebanker, Ahmanfan, Donruss, Colebear, CDsNuts, rbdjr1, Downtown1974, yankeeno7, drewsef, mnolan, mrbud60, msassin, RipublicaninMass, AkbarClone, rustywilly, lsutigers1973, julen23 and nam812, plus many others...
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
This has crossed my mind as well.
Needs'
1972 Football-9's high#'s
1965 Football-8's
1958 Topps FB-7-8
<< <i>
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
This has crossed my mind as well. >>
+1
<< <i>
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
This has crossed my mind as well. >>
Apparently quite a few people have the time, as I understand people have been messaging her asking her if she has any more copies of that Ripken card.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>I wish I had the free time to contact ebay peeps on auctions I had no involvement with just to learn more about their lives and why they are selling their items. >>
This has crossed my mind as well. >>
Apparently quite a few people have the time, as I understand people have been messaging her asking her if she has any more copies of that Ripken card. >>
Yep! Quite many have!
Sorry, I don't feel bad for her at all.
Was originally listed as an auction, she should have waited a week or ten days to see what happened.
<< <i>Lee is 100% correct. I feel sick just reading this thread. Making a good deal on Ebay is fine; making $12000 profit off a naive eldery woman is an altogether different situation. >>
Well said.
<< <i>
<< <i>Lee is 100% correct. I feel sick just reading this thread. Making a good deal on Ebay is fine; making $12000 profit off a naive eldery woman is an altogether different situation. >>
Well said. >>
Maybe the card is a fake and "she" is actually a young talented counterfeiter!
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Lee is 100% correct. I feel sick just reading this thread. Making a good deal on Ebay is fine; making $12000 profit off a naive eldery woman is an altogether different situation. >>
Well said. >>
Maybe the card is a fake and "she" is actually a young talented counterfeiter! >>
She does sell "throngs" after all.
There is to much profit potential here and it has clouded many's judgement.
Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did not do their due diligence.
I don't know the answer to this question.
But sooner or later, life will kick in. And in life, everyone needs somebody. Some people know this, others will learn it the hard way.
I have to say, I've learned a great deal from this thread about members of this board. I'm not saying people should shy from a goo deal, but there's a difference.
<< <i>Hey, do what you got to do. Make money, make money, make money. That's all that matters. You got ripped off? Well shame on you for not knowing better.
But sooner or later, life will kick in. And in life, everyone needs somebody. Some people know this, others will learn it the hard way.
I have to say, I've learned a great deal from this thread about members of this board. I'm not saying people should shy from a goo deal, but there's a difference. >>
I fall into the evil money, money, money, category who thinks that someone who is capable of listing hundreds of items on EBAY should do a little market research.
Sales Results
This is the most expensive item this seller has sold in their recent sales run by a mile.
It wouldn't surprise me if the seller was doing cart wheels for getting this much cash in from a sale.
<< <i>The bottom line question.
Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did something stupid?
I don't know the answer to this question. >>
Hard to take advantage of someone who does something smart.
Seller ended auction early saying there was an error in the listing to (apparently) take advantage of an offer that was three times the opening bid.
Seller looks to me to have been on ebay for over a year and should know to check out every item listed. ESPECIALLY from famous players. Had she listed some obscure (Littlefield?) players error card, that might be a little different.
She MUST have had some idea that it was valuable when she first listed a pretty beat up card for opening bid of $100.00!
No one took advantage of her! In fact, I think she made a greedy grab for money by improperly ending an auction. I realize it's done all the time, but she should have let the auction run and would certainly gotten a lot more money.
If those of you who actually feel sorry for her want to put your money where your mouth is, send her some cash!
<< <i>Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did something stupid? >>
I think the answer to this depends upon what kind of person you want to be, or to be known as. I think this sums up what Lee said earlier.
I also think the potential profit motive here has skewed judgment significantly, and while I do understand the marketplace argument it's clear that this situation has turned into something more than just a normal buy and sell.
And finally, the trolls who are reaching out to her on eBay are pitiful. You had ZERO involvement in this sale, interjecting yourself into it under the guise of gathering information is pathetic.
<< <i>
<< <i>Is it ok to take advantage of someone that did something stupid? >>
I think the answer to this depends upon what kind of person you want to be, or to be known as. I think this sums up what Lee said earlier.
I also think the potential profit motive here has skewed judgment significantly, and while I do understand the marketplace argument it's clear that this situation has turned into something more than just a normal buy and sell.
And finally, the trolls who are reaching out to her on eBay are pitiful. You had ZERO involvement in this sale, interjecting yourself into it under the guise of gathering information is pathetic. >>
I bet you were the one who originally offered $300
<< <i>
<< <i>Hey, do what you got to do. Make money, make money, make money. That's all that matters. You got ripped off? Well shame on you for not knowing better.
But sooner or later, life will kick in. And in life, everyone needs somebody. Some people know this, others will learn it the hard way.
I have to say, I've learned a great deal from this thread about members of this board. I'm not saying people should shy from a goo deal, but there's a difference. >>
I fall into the evil money, money, money, category who thinks that someone who is capable of listing hundreds of items on EBAY should do a little market research.
Sales Results
This is the most expensive item this seller has sold in their recent sales run by a mile.
It wouldn't surprise me if the seller was doing cart wheels for getting this much cash in from a sale.[/q
That's cool. We all have to make our own decisions on what is and what is not acceptable. I'm not here to say that one path is better or worse than the next. I'm just saying that this is a much smaller hobby community than we think it is. Do what you want and what you do will determine what happens.