Re: [meteorite-list] Auction, Bash and All

[Linton Rohr]

Anita, and all,
As posted by Michael on August 3...
"This coming Tucson Meteorite Auction will be held in the
Same location as the last several years on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013"
His entire announcement is pasted below.
Haven't heard anything on the B-day Bash, but isn't it traditionally on 
theWednesday prior to the auction?

Geoff rarely drops in here, but perhaps his esteemed twin can chime in. ;^)
See you there!
Linton




Dear fellow List members,

   This coming Tucson Meteorite Auction will be held in the
Same location as the last several years on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013.

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html

   First, I would like to thank all of you for your past patronage in
The Tucson Meteorite Auctions of the past. I appreciate it very much.

   Unfortunately the cost of putting on the auction has increased
So significantly in the last several years that I have been walking a
Narrow line just to stay in the black on these events, let alone make
any money from them. On occasion, it has even cost me - after hundreds
Of hours of prep (the on line catalog is quite time consuming)and money
Up front.

   As you are probably aware, most auctions charge at least 25%
Consignment fees while 35% is rapidly becoming the norm. In short,
I must raise my consignment fee to 15% (for items submitted by Sept. 1)
to be certain I will break even.

   In addition, most auctions now have a Buyers' Premium of 15%
At least and often more. I will be holding that to 10%.

   I already have 15 items "up" and a personal collection of 17
pallasites and 38 other meteorites on the way - in
the mail to me NOW
As soon as they arrive I will get them photographed and
listed in the
On line catalog. That will make 70 lots from the get go. SEE HERE:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html

   Those who would like to submit items, please contact me off list.

   I hope you all will be continuing your involvement - I would
certainly love to see this auction continue as the joyful event it has
become as part of the overall Tucson Show experience for the meteorite
community.

   Thanks, Michael



- Original Message - 
From: "Anita Westlake" 

To: 
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2012 8:29 AM
Subject: [meteorite-list] Bash and All


Apologies in advance if this was already announced, but I'm looking for 
info on
the Birthday Bash and the Auction. Dates, times and locations please. Need 
to

make my flight reservations...
Thanks much,
Anita






__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteorite-list-archives.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list 


__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteorite-list-archives.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Adam Hupe]

Dear Greg and List Members,

The reality is:


There may be about a dozen dealers that realize this type
income.  It would be extremely difficult in this economy to manage any
sort of meaningful income like you suggest year after year.  A
$1,000,000.00 meteorite inventory can only be turned over about once every 10
years not counting one or two lucky stones.  On the other hand, a
$1,000,000.00 inventory in computer or car parts can be turned over 36 times or
more in a single year, a much simpler way to generate a decent income, even at
11% gross margin.   
 
Properly marketing meteorites means that 20% or 20 grams has
to be deposited to make it official, lab fees paid, around 28-32% cutting and
polishing losses, travel, business and taxes expenses have to be incurred. This
represents a greater than 50% lose before a meteorite is even ready to be
marketed plus sometimes years waiting for classifications for those who do not 
piggyback.  The addition of 40% auction fees can very easily push you into
drawing red ink.
 
The main reason for dealing meteorites has to be the love
for the avocation, not the "big bucks"
 
Kind Regards,

Adam
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Adam Hupe]

"Auction houses are like used car salesman..they prefer to do business 
with the uninformed and emotionally driven buyer. I know because I 
earned my living in both fields of endeavor."

I couldn't agree more with this statement.  I think saving the buyer a 
potential 40% is a good thing.  Despite popular belief, there is not a lot of 
profits to be made dealing meteorites.  Sure, you can lucky once in a while 
with a hot stone but have to deal with 99 other less desirable pieces to get 
one. The market is limited and prices are all of the board which makes it 
interesting for buyers, not so much for sellers.  There are much easier ways of 
earning a living.

I made more with a gross profit of only 11% selling volume internet 
infrastructure appliances whereas, if I was able to achieve 50% gross margin 
dealing meteorites, it would not begin to cover expenses.


Take Care,

Adam
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Michael Farmer]

etting hit with all kinds of charges, do the math and buy or not.
Auction houses hit you with hidden or poorly explained charges, photo fees, 
storage fees, insurance fees, catalog fees, seller commission, shipping and 
packing charges, handling fees, and in the end they get it all, sort of like a 
casino. Been screwed once too many times. I'm out.



Michael Farmer

Sent from my iPad

On Aug 4, 2012, at 11:57 PM, Count Deiro  wrote:

> What a hoot!
> 
> Yinan Wang's coherent explanation of auction house operations should satisfy 
> the complaints of any potential seller, or buyer. I can add to his 
> descriptions by mentioning consignor's can set a minimum to protect 
> themselves in most situations. That being the case,the auction company has a 
> risk that not enough items will sell in order to cover costs and profits, so 
> they may charge additional fees to cover that exposure.
> 
> What is a hoot.. is reading the whinings of our professional dealers claiming 
> auction house greediness when they themselves practice the same techniques. I 
> don't hear them shedding an ounce of compassion for the newbie's they sell 
> .25 cent a gram OCs to for $5.00 a gram. 
> 
> Auction houses are like used car salesman..they prefer to do business with 
> the uninformed and emotionally driven buyer. I know because I earned my 
> living in both fields of endeavor.
> 
> Count Deiro
> INCA 3536 
> 
> 
> -Original Message-
>> From: Yinan Wang 
>> Sent: Aug 4, 2012 11:08 PM
>> To: Michael Farmer 
>> Cc: METEORITE LIST 
>> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
>> 
>> I'm putting in my two cents on the pros of auctions; since I've been a
>> consignor, buyer, and an employee in major auctions.
>> 
>> Reasons to consign: One of the main reasons to consign something to a
>> large auction house is that you have the potential to get several
>> times what your piece is normally worth. The larger auction houses
>> have literally tens of thousands of wealthy clients that you will not
>> reach through normal methods. When several parties get into a bidding
>> war, your piece sells quite well. I have found that 60% of the items I
>> consign will sell, and out of those that sell, 1 out of 4 sells for
>> significantly higher than I can get for it on the normal markets. I
>> certainly have been burned on a few items but that's the risk you
>> take, so the best thing is to make sure you're consigning enough
>> pieces to mitigate potential losses.
>> 
>> Reasons to bid: Even with the buyers premium, sometimes pieces from
>> estates come up for auction that you cannot buy through normal
>> channels. For example, last month I attended an auction of a
>> collection of Victorian-era fossil pieces. Even with the buyers
>> premium I got everything for 1/3 what it would normally sell for. So
>> you can certainly find bargains.
>> 
>> As for the buyers premium; the auction house is the middle men and
>> they demand their cut for being the intermediary between the seller
>> and the buyer. Without them in the deal, the seller would not be able
>> to reach the buyers that the auction house knows, and the buyers would
>> not have a trusted intermediary of cool stuff. The majority of these
>> buyers do not shop on ebay, online, or at trade shows. They'll see
>> something in an auction catalog that looks nice or has a good story
>> and decide they want it.
>> 
>> So yes, there are risks and benefits to auctions. It depends on the
>> item you have and whether or not you're willing to gamble.
>> 
>> -Yinan
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> On Sat, Aug 4, 2012 at 10:30 AM, Michael Farmer  
>> wrote:
>>> I have consigned some things to high end auction houses. I got screwed over 
>>> hard. Between their fees and outrageous shipping costs, in the end I got 
>>> scraps. Ever bought from them and had to have items shipped? I had a piece 
>>> of Norton County shipped from New York, sent priority mail in flat rate 
>>> box, poorly packaged and cost me almost $50 for $10 shipping. Not too 
>>> pleased with epic level of rip-off. Of course the high buyers premiums kill 
>>> the bidding most of the time yet i see suckers loving it. Some people 
>>> relish the atmosphere of showing off in public by bidding when they could 
>>> buy the item cheaper down the street..
>>> 
>>> Michael Farmer
>>> 
>>> Sent from my Ipad
>>> 
>>> On Aug 4, 2012, at 7:20 AM, Adam Hupe  wrote:
>>> 
>>>> I can see where this gimmick come

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Count Deiro]

What a hoot!

Yinan Wang's coherent explanation of auction house operations should satisfy 
the complaints of any potential seller, or buyer. I can add to his descriptions 
by mentioning consignor's can set a minimum to protect themselves in most 
situations. That being the case,the auction company has a risk that not enough 
items will sell in order to cover costs and profits, so they may charge 
additional fees to cover that exposure.

What is a hoot.. is reading the whinings of our professional dealers claiming 
auction house greediness when they themselves practice the same techniques. I 
don't hear them shedding an ounce of compassion for the newbie's they sell .25 
cent a gram OCs to for $5.00 a gram. 

Auction houses are like used car salesman..they prefer to do business with the 
uninformed and emotionally driven buyer. I know because I earned my living in 
both fields of endeavor.

Count Deiro
INCA 3536 


-Original Message-
>From: Yinan Wang 
>Sent: Aug 4, 2012 11:08 PM
>To: Michael Farmer 
>Cc: METEORITE LIST 
>Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
>
>I'm putting in my two cents on the pros of auctions; since I've been a
>consignor, buyer, and an employee in major auctions.
>
>Reasons to consign: One of the main reasons to consign something to a
>large auction house is that you have the potential to get several
>times what your piece is normally worth. The larger auction houses
>have literally tens of thousands of wealthy clients that you will not
>reach through normal methods. When several parties get into a bidding
>war, your piece sells quite well. I have found that 60% of the items I
>consign will sell, and out of those that sell, 1 out of 4 sells for
>significantly higher than I can get for it on the normal markets. I
>certainly have been burned on a few items but that's the risk you
>take, so the best thing is to make sure you're consigning enough
>pieces to mitigate potential losses.
>
>Reasons to bid: Even with the buyers premium, sometimes pieces from
>estates come up for auction that you cannot buy through normal
>channels. For example, last month I attended an auction of a
>collection of Victorian-era fossil pieces. Even with the buyers
>premium I got everything for 1/3 what it would normally sell for. So
>you can certainly find bargains.
>
>As for the buyers premium; the auction house is the middle men and
>they demand their cut for being the intermediary between the seller
>and the buyer. Without them in the deal, the seller would not be able
>to reach the buyers that the auction house knows, and the buyers would
>not have a trusted intermediary of cool stuff. The majority of these
>buyers do not shop on ebay, online, or at trade shows. They'll see
>something in an auction catalog that looks nice or has a good story
>and decide they want it.
>
>So yes, there are risks and benefits to auctions. It depends on the
>item you have and whether or not you're willing to gamble.
>
>-Yinan
>
>
>
>On Sat, Aug 4, 2012 at 10:30 AM, Michael Farmer  wrote:
>> I have consigned some things to high end auction houses. I got screwed over 
>> hard. Between their fees and outrageous shipping costs, in the end I got 
>> scraps. Ever bought from them and had to have items shipped? I had a piece 
>> of Norton County shipped from New York, sent priority mail in flat rate box, 
>> poorly packaged and cost me almost $50 for $10 shipping. Not too pleased 
>> with epic level of rip-off. Of course the high buyers premiums kill the 
>> bidding most of the time yet i see suckers loving it. Some people relish the 
>> atmosphere of showing off in public by bidding when they could buy the item 
>> cheaper down the street..
>>
>> Michael Farmer
>>
>> Sent from my Ipad
>>
>> On Aug 4, 2012, at 7:20 AM, Adam Hupe  wrote:
>>
>>> I can see where this gimmick comes into play.  You received 100% of the 
>>> hammer price but maybe only received 75% of the real price realized for the 
>>> object.  I can see where this sounds good to a seller but in reality the 
>>> auction house is still receiving up to 40% of the real price the item sold 
>>> for.
>>>
>>> This does help clear things up for me.  The hammer price means very little 
>>> when when a buyers premium is put into play.  To me, it is a gimmick to 
>>> mislead buyers and sellers into thinking they got a good deal.  I wonder if 
>>> this started out as a way to daze and confuse buyers and sellers?
>>>
>>> Kind Regards,
>>>
>>> Adam
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> - Original Message -
>&

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Yinan Wang]

I'm putting in my two cents on the pros of auctions; since I've been a
consignor, buyer, and an employee in major auctions.

Reasons to consign: One of the main reasons to consign something to a
large auction house is that you have the potential to get several
times what your piece is normally worth. The larger auction houses
have literally tens of thousands of wealthy clients that you will not
reach through normal methods. When several parties get into a bidding
war, your piece sells quite well. I have found that 60% of the items I
consign will sell, and out of those that sell, 1 out of 4 sells for
significantly higher than I can get for it on the normal markets. I
certainly have been burned on a few items but that's the risk you
take, so the best thing is to make sure you're consigning enough
pieces to mitigate potential losses.

Reasons to bid: Even with the buyers premium, sometimes pieces from
estates come up for auction that you cannot buy through normal
channels. For example, last month I attended an auction of a
collection of Victorian-era fossil pieces. Even with the buyers
premium I got everything for 1/3 what it would normally sell for. So
you can certainly find bargains.

As for the buyers premium; the auction house is the middle men and
they demand their cut for being the intermediary between the seller
and the buyer. Without them in the deal, the seller would not be able
to reach the buyers that the auction house knows, and the buyers would
not have a trusted intermediary of cool stuff. The majority of these
buyers do not shop on ebay, online, or at trade shows. They'll see
something in an auction catalog that looks nice or has a good story
and decide they want it.

So yes, there are risks and benefits to auctions. It depends on the
item you have and whether or not you're willing to gamble.

-Yinan



On Sat, Aug 4, 2012 at 10:30 AM, Michael Farmer  wrote:
> I have consigned some things to high end auction houses. I got screwed over 
> hard. Between their fees and outrageous shipping costs, in the end I got 
> scraps. Ever bought from them and had to have items shipped? I had a piece of 
> Norton County shipped from New York, sent priority mail in flat rate box, 
> poorly packaged and cost me almost $50 for $10 shipping. Not too pleased with 
> epic level of rip-off. Of course the high buyers premiums kill the bidding 
> most of the time yet i see suckers loving it. Some people relish the 
> atmosphere of showing off in public by bidding when they could buy the item 
> cheaper down the street..
>
> Michael Farmer
>
> Sent from my Ipad
>
> On Aug 4, 2012, at 7:20 AM, Adam Hupe  wrote:
>
>> I can see where this gimmick comes into play.  You received 100% of the 
>> hammer price but maybe only received 75% of the real price realized for the 
>> object.  I can see where this sounds good to a seller but in reality the 
>> auction house is still receiving up to 40% of the real price the item sold 
>> for.
>>
>> This does help clear things up for me.  The hammer price means very little 
>> when when a buyers premium is put into play.  To me, it is a gimmick to 
>> mislead buyers and sellers into thinking they got a good deal.  I wonder if 
>> this started out as a way to daze and confuse buyers and sellers?
>>
>> Kind Regards,
>>
>> Adam
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> - Original Message -
>> From: "petersche...@rcn.com" 
>> To: Adam Hupe ; Adam 
>> 
>> Cc:
>> Sent: Saturday, August 4, 2012 7:08 AM
>> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
>>
>> Hi,
>>
>> I have sold stuff at auctions where I received 100% of the hammer price. The 
>> auction houses only cut was the buyers premium.
>>
>> Peter
>>
>> __
>>
>> Visit the Archives at 
>> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
>> Meteorite-list mailing list
>> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> __
>
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Michael Farmer]

I have consigned some things to high end auction houses. I got screwed over 
hard. Between their fees and outrageous shipping costs, in the end I got 
scraps. Ever bought from them and had to have items shipped? I had a piece of 
Norton County shipped from New York, sent priority mail in flat rate box, 
poorly packaged and cost me almost $50 for $10 shipping. Not too pleased with 
epic level of rip-off. Of course the high buyers premiums kill the bidding most 
of the time yet i see suckers loving it. Some people relish the atmosphere of 
showing off in public by bidding when they could buy the item cheaper down the 
street..

Michael Farmer

Sent from my Ipad

On Aug 4, 2012, at 7:20 AM, Adam Hupe  wrote:

> I can see where this gimmick comes into play.  You received 100% of the 
> hammer price but maybe only received 75% of the real price realized for the 
> object.  I can see where this sounds good to a seller but in reality the 
> auction house is still receiving up to 40% of the real price the item sold 
> for.
> 
> This does help clear things up for me.  The hammer price means very little 
> when when a buyers premium is put into play.  To me, it is a gimmick to 
> mislead buyers and sellers into thinking they got a good deal.  I wonder if 
> this started out as a way to daze and confuse buyers and sellers?
> 
> Kind Regards,
> 
> Adam
> 
> 
> 
>  
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: "petersche...@rcn.com" 
> To: Adam Hupe ; Adam 
> 
> Cc: 
> Sent: Saturday, August 4, 2012 7:08 AM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
> 
> Hi,
> 
> I have sold stuff at auctions where I received 100% of the hammer price. The 
> auction houses only cut was the buyers premium.
> 
> Peter
> 
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions Answered

[Adam Hupe]

Hi Darryl.

I was only exploring options when you and Heritage were contacted. It 
is obvious, in my opinion, that they are not up the task of marketing the 
world's best and most valuable lunar 
meteorite (NWA 5000).  
 

I am no longer interesting in offering NWA 5000 at any auction house and 
certainly not in Tucson.  After studying the situation, I have come to 
feel Heritages 40% fees are unreasonable. It is my belief that their 
understanding of planetary meteorites is lacking. Using the same assigned price 
per gram values for NWA 5000 as a 1.8 kilogram 
weathered lunar breccia from Algeria demonstrates a serious lack of 
understanding.



Kindest Regards,


Adam


- Original Message -
From: Darryl Pitt 
To: Adam Hupe 
Cc: Adam 
Sent: Saturday, August 4, 2012 11:46 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions Answered



Hi, 

Your disapproval of the protocols of a large, serious auction house fascinates.

Given the depth of such feelings, I am surprised I received more than a half 
dozen emails from you the past three weeks in your desire to have the NWA 5000 
main mass included in the upcoming Heritage Meteorite Auction…and when I felt I 
had no choice but to pass on  your proposal, you then turned to someone else at 
Heritage---and the consignment was again rejected after multiple solicitations 
were again made. 

Given your note below, can we now expect to see the NWA 5000 main mass in 
Michael Blood's upcoming auction?

d,


Begin forwarded message:

> From: Adam Hupe 
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
> Date: August 3, 2012 11:55:10 PM EDT
> To: Adam 
> Reply-To: Adam Hupe 
> 
> Hi Michael and List Members,
> 
> 
> Your fees seem reasonable to me, especially after checking out some auction 
> houses that charge a 20% seller premium plus a 20% buyer's premium equaling 
> an outrageous 40%.  Then catalog fees are added on top of that figure.  
> Perhaps you can answer a few questions for me?
> 
> Why do some auction houses charge a buyers premium to begin with?  It seems 
> that this practice confuses bidders and is misleading.  I know it confuses me 
> trying to make a quick multiplication in my head during live bidding.  Why 
> should the buyer have to pay this extra amount?  It seems the seller should 
> be pay a straight percentage like most auction sites do including eBay.  When 
> you bid on storage units, houses, cars or what have you, what you bid is what 
> you pay.  Seems pretty straight forward to me.
> 
> Imagine if all businesses added a 20% buyers premium to their products and I 
> am not talking about sales tax. What purpose does it serve?  I believe in 
> simplicity,
> 
> Best Regards,
> 
> 
> Adam
> 

__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions Answered

[Darryl Pitt]

Hi, 

Your disapproval of the protocols of a large, serious auction house fascinates.

Given the depth of such feelings, I am surprised I received more than a half 
dozen emails from you the past three weeks in your desire to have the NWA 5000 
main mass included in the upcoming Heritage Meteorite Auction…and when I felt I 
had no choice but to pass on  your proposal, you then turned to someone else at 
Heritage---and the consignment was again rejected after multiple solicitations 
were again made. 

Given your note below, can we now expect to see the NWA 5000 main mass in 
Michael Blood's upcoming auction?

d,


Begin forwarded message:

> From: Adam Hupe 
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
> Date: August 3, 2012 11:55:10 PM EDT
> To: Adam 
> Reply-To: Adam Hupe 
> 
> Hi Michael and List Members,
> 
> 
> Your fees seem reasonable to me, especially after checking out some auction 
> houses that charge a 20% seller premium plus a 20% buyer's premium equaling 
> an outrageous 40%.  Then catalog fees are added on top of that figure.  
> Perhaps you can answer a few questions for me?
> 
> Why do some auction houses charge a buyers premium to begin with?  It seems 
> that this practice confuses bidders and is misleading.  I know it confuses me 
> trying to make a quick multiplication in my head during live bidding.  Why 
> should the buyer have to pay this extra amount?  It seems the seller should 
> be pay a straight percentage like most auction sites do including eBay.  When 
> you bid on storage units, houses, cars or what have you, what you bid is what 
> you pay.  Seems pretty straight forward to me.
> 
> Imagine if all businesses added a 20% buyers premium to their products and I 
> am not talking about sales tax. What purpose does it serve?  I believe in 
> simplicity,
> 
> Best Regards,
> 
> 
> Adam
> 
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[MexicoDoug]

Not exactly the same Adam -

As you know better than anyone, in this business the profit is in the 
margin for the seller.


The 15/10 scheme is not as bad as the straight 25%.  As a buyer, I'd 
rather pay the 10% buyer's commission in the example you gave than no 
buyer commission and having the seller pay the entire 25% since that is 
more money.  So what you propose would actually add another 3% to the 
total cost grabbed by the auctioneer.


For a Total price of 100:

25% seller scheme:
Hammer price is 100 , the auction house take 25, seller get 75.

15%/10%:Seller/Buyer scheme:
Hammer price is 90.91, buyer pays 9.09 but the seller pays only 13.64 
yet nets 77.27.


The concept of two-side financing of the auction probably started 
innocently enough when some Dutch guys in wigs had to rent the 
facilities and thought it fair that everyone chipped in, sellers by a 
commission and buyers by an entry fee.  You know, like mall parking 
lots started at a flat $0.25 entry fee to pay the attendant.


Then, everyone complained that they needed their wives and husbands 
there to agree to ask permission, or their employees to help cart it 
away.  Also there were people who claimed they were there to help, but 
really did nothing and avoided the entrance fee.  Then the auctioneer 
said "screw this, we'll just put a minor buyer's commission on the 
sales, and in any case the bigger the crowd the more likely bidders are 
likely to lose their head in the commotion with showboat bidding.


Phase three was when a change of business model miraculously occurred 
and plain greed took over: and the buyer's % fee was suddenly viewed as 
a source of income, and as you say has the benefit to obscure the bill 
so careless buyers paid more than they thought and could only grumble 
that the drinks at the bar weren't so cheap after all.


So my thought is that as long as the auctioneer is not gouging anyone 
it's ok.  Buyers are smart enough to add the buyer's commission if they 
are bidding responsibly and seriously.  The example is implemented no 
differently from a cooperative tax as you point out.  If you go to a 
restaurant, you wouldn't complain that tax was added to your bill, as 
long as the tax rate is reasonable.


In Mexico, where sales taxes are higher than the US, btw, all prices 
are quoted inclusive of tax, so WYSIWYG on the bill and customers are 
happy since they don't have to count what's in their wallet while 
figuring in taxesto see ifthey have enough after taxes.  It make for 
interesting accounting as it pushes the burden to the vendor to back 
out the tax.  So if something is 99.80 MXN pesos the accountant sets up 
a spreadsheet and determines 86.79 is the income and 13.01 is the tax 
due.  So everyone is running around with calculators all the time 
dividing everything by 1.15 to back out the 15% VAT.  It gets to be a 
real pain in the arse.


Kindest wishes
Doug






-Original Message-
From: Adam Hupe 
To: Adam 
Sent: Sat, Aug 4, 2012 9:53 am
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions




Hi Michael and List,

I think that 25% is a reasonable commission to charge the seller and 
see no need
whatsoever for a buyers premium.  The seller will still realize the 
same amount
at the end of the day.  15% plus 10% still equals 25% of the selling 
price going
to the party throwing the auction meaning the seller will still realize 
75%.  I
think 25% is reasonable considering the value added but playing games 
with
numbers only serves to confuse me. I commend you on be open about the 
real costs
and not hiding the buyers premium in small lettering on some obscure 
part of a

website.

A buyers premium feels like a tax to me.  I cannot understand why 
anybody would
pay 20% for the privilege of buying.   Imagine if gas stations added 
20% to the
advertised  pump price only to have buyers shocked when they realized 
how much

they really paid when it comes time to settle up the bill.  It is like
advertising fuel at $3.00/gallon when you are really paying 
$3.60/gallon.


I need to think about why this concept even exists.

Kind Regards,

Adam




Hi Adam and all,

        The short answer is it is increasingly costly to manage an
Auction - and sellers won't place items if the consignment fee
Is too high. Personally, I believe a 20% buyers' premium is far
Too high and I am determined to never go beyond 10%. However,
If auctions (not just mine) are to survive the MUST have sellers
Consigning items and, as I said, there is a limit to what a seller
Will be willing to sacrifice as a consignment fee.

        I am not really suggesting this - but just AS AN EXAMPLE,
if you wanted To place 20 items with me I would happily allow
you to pay me 10% MORE for your listing fee and let the buyers
bid on your items with No buyers premium. How would that
work for you? Not so good, eh? Not to worry, I really don't need
ANOTHER element to ju

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[peterscherff]

Hi,

My guess is that it was a way to allow auction houses to better compete of 
consignments. I wouldn't be surprised if the final price of the item might be 
slightly higher for auctions where the buyer is charged a premium.

Peter
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Adam Hupe]

I can see where this gimmick comes into play.  You received 100% of the hammer 
price but maybe only received 75% of the real price realized for the object.  I 
can see where this sounds good to a seller but in reality the auction house is 
still receiving up to 40% of the real price the item sold for.

This does help clear things up for me.  The hammer price means very little when 
when a buyers premium is put into play.  To me, it is a gimmick to mislead 
buyers and sellers into thinking they got a good deal.  I wonder if this 
started out as a way to daze and confuse buyers and sellers?

Kind Regards,

Adam



 

- Original Message -
From: "petersche...@rcn.com" 
To: Adam Hupe ; Adam 

Cc: 
Sent: Saturday, August 4, 2012 7:08 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

Hi,

I have sold stuff at auctions where I received 100% of the hammer price. The 
auction houses only cut was the buyers premium.

Peter

__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[peterscherff]

Hi,

I have sold stuff at auctions where I received 100% of the hammer price. The 
auction houses only cut was the buyers premium.

Peter
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Adam Hupe]

Hi Michael and List,

I think that 25% is a reasonable commission to charge the seller and see no 
need whatsoever for a buyers premium.  The seller will still realize the same 
amount at the end of the day.  15% plus 10% still equals 25% of the selling 
price going to the party throwing the auction meaning the seller will still 
realize 75%.  I think 25% is reasonable considering the value added but playing 
games with numbers only serves to confuse me. I commend you on be open about 
the real costs and not hiding the buyers premium in small lettering on some 
obscure part of a website.

A buyers premium feels like a tax to me.  I cannot understand why anybody would 
pay 20% for the privilege of buying.   Imagine if gas stations added 20% to the 
advertised  pump price only to have buyers shocked when they realized how much 
they really paid when it comes time to settle up the bill.  It is like 
advertising fuel at $3.00/gallon when you are really paying $3.60/gallon.

I need to think about why this concept even exists.

Kind Regards,

Adam




Hi Adam and all,

        The short answer is it is increasingly costly to manage an
Auction - and sellers won't place items if the consignment fee
Is too high. Personally, I believe a 20% buyers' premium is far
Too high and I am determined to never go beyond 10%. However,
If auctions (not just mine) are to survive the MUST have sellers
Consigning items and, as I said, there is a limit to what a seller
Will be willing to sacrifice as a consignment fee.

        I am not really suggesting this - but just AS AN EXAMPLE,
if you wanted To place 20 items with me I would happily allow
you to pay me 10% MORE for your listing fee and let the buyers
bid on your items with No buyers premium. How would that
work for you? Not so good, eh? Not to worry, I really don't need
ANOTHER element to juggle at the Auction, so, please do not
"hear" this as something directed at you, Personally or some
ridiculous challenge for you to do that - I really don't want that
additional confusion I just think if you look at it from the consignor's
viewpoint it will be easier to understand.

        Also, by the way, for years I have actually had several people
SUGGEST I raise the buyers' premium to 10% so it would be easier
for them to calculate when bidding

        Again, I am very lucky to have had the Auction Nymphs SO on
top of things this last auction when I was so ill I could barely sit up.
They are a terrific crew and very sharp - and on top of that, very nice
People. While I managed to call the auction I can't imagine if I had
Tried to add peoples totals after the auction.

        I have always tried to keep both the premium and consignment
Fees as low as possible - and I still do. Overhead has drastically risen
in the last 14 years while my fees & premium have increased minimally
In comparison. I think the Tucson Meteorite Auction is a hoot, I just
Have to be sure it doesn't COST me to put it on.

        By the way, I still haven't arranged for a speaker this year and if
Any list members are one or know one who would present a casual
45 minutes or so presentation, please do let me know. We have had some
Very interesting presenters in the past (I am told - I am always far too
Busy to catch even a few minutes of any of the presentations).

        While we are at it, I want to again thank Twink for her wonderful
Gold Basin cakes. I think this year she is considering an additional
Frankonia cake She is really something. The meteorite community is
Very lucky to have such a giving person.

        Hope I answered your question satisfactorily, Adam. If not, please
Do feel free to give me a call & we'll jaw about it.

        Best to all, Michael
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions 2

[Michael Blood]

Sorry Adam & all,

I read and respond to posts chronologically and hadn't seen
This. 

1) I was amazed that the Brits charge significantly less than most
Of the US auctions and

2) That they compound the buyers' premium, calling the difference
The "VAT" - very kinky.

Michael


On 8/3/12 10:59 PM, "Adam Hupe"  wrote:

> I found a good explanation on this website about buyers premiums at auctions:
> 
> 
> Here is a link that explains it:
> 
> http://www.ganews.co.uk/premium.html
> 
> Pretty interesting reading.  He helped me greatly to understand the concept
> although I do not agree with it.
> 
> 
> Take Care
> 
> Adam
> 
> 
> 
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: Adam Hupe 
> To: Adam 
> Cc: 
> Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 8:55 PM
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
> 
> Hi Michael and List Members,
> 
> 
> Your fees seem reasonable to me, especially after checking out some auction
> houses that charge a 20% seller premium plus a 20% buyer's premium equaling an
> outrageous 40%.  Then catalog fees are added on top of that figure.  Perhaps
> you can answer a few questions for me?
> 
> 
> Why do some auction houses charge a buyers premium to begin with?  It seems
> that this practice confuses bidders and is misleading.  I know it confuses me
> trying to make a quick multiplication in my head during live bidding.  Why
> should the buyer have to pay this extra amount?  It seems the seller should be
> pay a straight percentage like most auction sites do including eBay.  When you
> bid on storage units, houses, cars or what have you, what you bid is what you
> pay.  Seems pretty straight forward to me.
> 
> Imagine if all businesses added a 20% buyers premium to their products and I
> am not talking about sales tax. What purpose does it serve?  I believe in
> simplicity,
> 
> Best Regards,
> 
> 
> Adam
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> From: Michael Blood 
> To: Meteorite List 
> Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 4:56 PM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Tucson Meteorite Auction 2013  (AD)
> 
> Dear fellow List members,
> 
>         This coming Tucson Meteorite Auction will be held in the
> Same location as the last several years on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013.
> 
> http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html
> 
>         First, I would like to thank all of you for your past patronage in
> The Tucson Meteorite Auctions of the past. I appreciate it very much.
> 
>         Unfortunately the cost of putting on the auction has increased
> So significantly in the last several years that I have been walking a
> Narrow line just to stay in the black on these events, let alone make
> any money from them. On occasion, it has even cost me - after hundreds
> Of hours of prep (the on line catalog is quite time consuming)and money
> Up front. 
> 
>         As you are probably aware, most auctions charge at least 25%
> Consignment fees while 35% is rapidly becoming the norm. In short,
> I must raise my consignment fee to 15% (for items submitted by Sept. 1)
> to be certain I will break even.
> 
>         In addition, most auctions now have a Buyers' Premium of 15%
> At least and often more. I will be holding that to 10%.
> 
>         I already have 15 items "up" and a personal collection of 17
> pallasites and 38 other meteorites on the way - in
> the mail to me NOW
> As soon as they arrive I will get them photographed and
> listed in the
> On line catalog. That will make 70 lots from the get go. SEE HERE:
> 
> http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html
> 
>         Those who would like to submit items, please contact me off list.
> 
>         I hope you all will be continuing your involvement - I would
> certainly love to see this auction continue as the joyful event it has
> become as part of the overall Tucson Show experience for the meteorite
> community.
> 
>         Thanks, Michael
> 
> 
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list   
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list


__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Michael Blood]

Hi Adam and all,

The short answer is it is increasingly costly to manage an
Auction - and sellers won't place items if the consignment fee
Is too high. Personally, I believe a 20% buyers' premium is far
Too high and I am determined to never go beyond 10%. However,
If auctions (not just mine) are to survive the MUST have sellers
Consigning items and, as I said, there is a limit to what a seller
Will be willing to sacrifice as a consignment fee.

I am not really suggesting this - but just AS AN EXAMPLE,
if you wanted To place 20 items with me I would happily allow
you to pay me 10% MORE for your listing fee and let the buyers
bid on your items with No buyers premium. How would that
work for you? Not so good, eh? Not to worry, I really don't need
ANOTHER element to juggle at the Auction, so, please do not
"hear" this as something directed at you, Personally or some
ridiculous challenge for you to do that - I really don't want that
additional confusion I just think if you look at it from the consignor's
viewpoint it will be easier to understand.

Also, by the way, for years I have actually had several people
SUGGEST I raise the buyers' premium to 10% so it would be easier
for them to calculate when bidding

Again, I am very lucky to have had the Auction Nymphs SO on
top of things this last auction when I was so ill I could barely sit up.
They are a terrific crew and very sharp - and on top of that, very nice
People. While I managed to call the auction I can't imagine if I had
Tried to add peoples totals after the auction.

I have always tried to keep both the premium and consignment
Fees as low as possible - and I still do. Overhead has drastically risen
in the last 14 years while my fees & premium have increased minimally
In comparison. I think the Tucson Meteorite Auction is a hoot, I just
Have to be sure it doesn't COST me to put it on.

By the way, I still haven't arranged for a speaker this year and if
Any list members are one or know one who would present a casual
45 minutes or so presentation, please do let me know. We have had some
Very interesting presenters in the past (I am told - I am always far too
Busy to catch even a few minutes of any of the presentations).

While we are at it, I want to again thank Twink for her wonderful
Gold Basin cakes. I think this year she is considering an additional
Frankonia cake She is really something. The meteorite community is
Very lucky to have such a giving person.

Hope I answered your question satisfactorily, Adam. If not, please
Do feel free to give me a call & we'll jaw about it.

Best to all, Michael


On 8/3/12 8:55 PM, "Adam Hupe"  wrote:

> Hi Michael and List Members,
> 
> 
> Your fees seem reasonable to me, especially after checking out some auction
> houses that charge a 20% seller premium plus a 20% buyer's premium equaling an
> outrageous 40%.  Then catalog fees are added on top of that figure.  Perhaps
> you can answer a few questions for me?
> 
> 
> Why do some auction houses charge a buyers premium to begin with?  It seems
> that this practice confuses bidders and is misleading.  I know it confuses me
> trying to make a quick multiplication in my head during live bidding.  Why
> should the buyer have to pay this extra amount?  It seems the seller should be
> pay a straight percentage like most auction sites do including eBay.  When you
> bid on storage units, houses, cars or what have you, what you bid is what you
> pay.  Seems pretty straight forward to me.
> 
> Imagine if all businesses added a 20% buyers premium to their products and I
> am not talking about sales tax. What purpose does it serve?  I believe in
> simplicity,
> 
> Best Regards,
> 
> 
> Adam
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> From: Michael Blood 
> To: Meteorite List 
> Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 4:56 PM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Tucson Meteorite Auction 2013  (AD)
> 
> Dear fellow List members,
> 
>         This coming Tucson Meteorite Auction will be held in the
> Same location as the last several years on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013.
> 
> http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html
> 
>         First, I would like to thank all of you for your past patronage in
> The Tucson Meteorite Auctions of the past. I appreciate it very much.
> 
>         Unfortunately the cost of putting on the auction has increased
> So significantly in the last several years that I have been walking a
> Narrow line just to stay in the black on these events, let alone make
> any money from them. On occasion, it has even cost me - after hundreds
> Of hours of prep (the on line catalog is quite time consuming)and money
> Up front. 
> 
>         As you are probably aware, most auctions charge at least 25%
> Consignment fees while 35% is rapidly becoming the norm. In short,
> I must raise my consignment fee to 15% (for items submitted by Sept. 1)
> to be certain I will break even.
> 
>       

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[bill kies]

The buyers premium ultimately comes out of the sellers pocket. Intelligent 
bidders bid accordingly so you, the consignor, realize less. I will not buy 
from or consign merchandise with an auctioneer that charges a buyers premium no 
matter how they claim to advertise/hype the goods. I wonder how long it will be 
before e--pay challenges us with this concept?
 
> Date: Fri, 3 Aug 2012 22:59:35 -0700
> From: raremeteori...@yahoo.com
> To: meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
> 
> I found a good explanation on this website about buyers premiums at auctions:
> 
> 
> Here is a link that explains it:
> 
> http://www.ganews.co.uk/premium.html
> 
> Pretty interesting reading. He helped me greatly to understand the concept 
> although I do not agree with it.
> 
> 
> Take Care
> 
> Adam
> 
> 
> 
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: Adam Hupe 
> To: Adam 
> Cc: 
> Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 8:55 PM
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions
> 
> Hi Michael and List Members,
> 
> 
> Your fees seem reasonable to me, especially after checking out some auction 
> houses that charge a 20% seller premium plus a 20% buyer's premium equaling 
> an outrageous 40%. Then catalog fees are added on top of that figure. Perhaps 
> you can answer a few questions for me?
> 
> 
> Why do some auction houses charge a buyers premium to begin with? It seems 
> that this practice confuses bidders and is misleading. I know it confuses me 
> trying to make a quick multiplication in my head during live bidding. Why 
> should the buyer have to pay this extra amount? It seems the seller should be 
> pay a straight percentage like most auction sites do including eBay. When you 
> bid on storage units, houses, cars or what have you, what you bid is what you 
> pay. Seems pretty straight forward to me.
> 
> Imagine if all businesses added a 20% buyers premium to their products and I 
> am not talking about sales tax. What purpose does it serve? I believe in 
> simplicity,
> 
> Best Regards,
> 
> 
> Adam
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> From: Michael Blood 
> To: Meteorite List  
> Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 4:56 PM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Tucson Meteorite Auction 2013 (AD)
> 
> Dear fellow List members,
> 
> This coming Tucson Meteorite Auction will be held in the
> Same location as the last several years on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013.
> 
> http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html
> 
> First, I would like to thank all of you for your past patronage in
> The Tucson Meteorite Auctions of the past. I appreciate it very much.
> 
> Unfortunately the cost of putting on the auction has increased
> So significantly in the last several years that I have been walking a
> Narrow line just to stay in the black on these events, let alone make
> any money from them. On occasion, it has even cost me - after hundreds
> Of hours of prep (the on line catalog is quite time consuming)and money
> Up front. 
> 
> As you are probably aware, most auctions charge at least 25%
> Consignment fees while 35% is rapidly becoming the norm. In short,
> I must raise my consignment fee to 15% (for items submitted by Sept. 1)
> to be certain I will break even.
> 
> In addition, most auctions now have a Buyers' Premium of 15%
> At least and often more. I will be holding that to 10%.
> 
> I already have 15 items "up" and a personal collection of 17
> pallasites and 38 other meteorites on the way - in 
> the mail to me NOW
> As soon as they arrive I will get them photographed and 
> listed in the
> On line catalog. That will make 70 lots from the get go. SEE HERE:
> 
> http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html
> 
> Those who would like to submit items, please contact me off list.
> 
> I hope you all will be continuing your involvement - I would
> certainly love to see this auction continue as the joyful event it has
> become as part of the overall Tucson Show experience for the meteorite
> community.
> 
> Thanks, Michael
> 
> 
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list 
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 
> __

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

[Adam Hupe]

I found a good explanation on this website about buyers premiums at auctions:


Here is a link that explains it:

http://www.ganews.co.uk/premium.html

Pretty interesting reading.  He helped me greatly to understand the concept 
although I do not agree with it.


Take Care

Adam




- Original Message -
From: Adam Hupe 
To: Adam 
Cc: 
Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 8:55 PM
Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Questions

Hi Michael and List Members,


Your fees seem reasonable to me, especially after checking out some auction 
houses that charge a 20% seller premium plus a 20% buyer's premium equaling an 
outrageous 40%.  Then catalog fees are added on top of that figure.  Perhaps 
you can answer a few questions for me?


Why do some auction houses charge a buyers premium to begin with?  It seems 
that this practice confuses bidders and is misleading.  I know it confuses me 
trying to make a quick multiplication in my head during live bidding.  Why 
should the buyer have to pay this extra amount?  It seems the seller should be 
pay a straight percentage like most auction sites do including eBay.  When you 
bid on storage units, houses, cars or what have you, what you bid is what you 
pay.  Seems pretty straight forward to me.

Imagine if all businesses added a 20% buyers premium to their products and I am 
not talking about sales tax. What purpose does it serve?  I believe in 
simplicity,

Best Regards,


Adam






From: Michael Blood 
To: Meteorite List  
Sent: Friday, August 3, 2012 4:56 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Tucson Meteorite Auction 2013  (AD)

Dear fellow List members,

        This coming Tucson Meteorite Auction will be held in the
Same location as the last several years on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013.

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html

        First, I would like to thank all of you for your past patronage in
The Tucson Meteorite Auctions of the past. I appreciate it very much.

        Unfortunately the cost of putting on the auction has increased
So significantly in the last several years that I have been walking a
Narrow line just to stay in the black on these events, let alone make
any money from them. On occasion, it has even cost me - after hundreds
Of hours of prep (the on line catalog is quite time consuming)and money
Up front. 

        As you are probably aware, most auctions charge at least 25%
Consignment fees while 35% is rapidly becoming the norm. In short,
I must raise my consignment fee to 15% (for items submitted by Sept. 1)
to be certain I will break even.

        In addition, most auctions now have a Buyers' Premium of 15%
At least and often more. I will be holding that to 10%.

        I already have 15 items "up" and a personal collection of 17
pallasites and 38 other meteorites on the way - in 
the mail to me NOW
As soon as they arrive I will get them photographed and 
listed in the
On line catalog. That will make 70 lots from the get go. SEE HERE:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson2013.html

        Those who would like to submit items, please contact me off list.

        I hope you all will be continuing your involvement - I would
certainly love to see this auction continue as the joyful event it has
become as part of the overall Tucson Show experience for the meteorite
community.

        Thanks, Michael


__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list    
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[The Murrays]

That show was the second one like in the last little while that I have  
seen where a meteorite came up for auction.  The other show was one  
where they had experts there and they looked at the items people  
brought and gave an evaluation.  Then based on the evaluation they  
would decide if it went to auction.   If i remember correctly, the  
meteorite was a stony in that one.  Looked to weigh several pounds.  I  
can't remember the selling price of it though.  I told my wife at the  
time that I thought that was the wrong venue to sell something like a  
large stony meteorite.



On Mar 23, 2012, at 8:38 AM, Michael Gilmer wrote:


Hi Folks,

So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.

Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.

The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins

This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.

First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
it.

Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
"magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
on this misconception and use of improper terminology because the real
kicker was still to come.

So the owner tells the auction house that he is hoping to sell the
meteorite to help pay for a vacation to Paris and he wants $1000 for
it.

Ok, at no point in the show was the weight of the specimen ever
mentioned.  So without knowing the weight, it is difficult to assign
to solid value to the piece.  But judging by what I saw (apparent size
and shape), I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or
eBay for about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed
unrealistic to me, but this is television and a bunch of people who
don't know jack about meteorites, so anything is possible.

The auction part comes, and they have a nice turn out with maybe two
or three dozen potential bidders in attendance.  The meteorite ignites
a bidding war and the final price for the piece was.(*drumroll
please*).. $2000!  And the buyer was thrilled because he thought
he got a good deal.  Of course, once he gets home and does some
Googling to learn more about his new meteorite, he might change his
mind about the deal he got.  He could have went on eBay and bought a
half-dozen Sikhote shrapnels of that size for $2000.

So the moral of this story is - if you have a local auction house near
you, go down there with a meteorite and you might be pleasantly
surprised how much money it will fetch.  I'm opening up the yellow
pages today and/or getting on the internet and see what kind of
auction houses we have here in the Tampa area.  I'll be more than
happy to offer them all the $200 stones and irons they want, as long
as they fetch $2000 each.  Heck, even after the auction house takes
it's percentage, that is still a great deal for the seller.

And the best part is, once the buyer gets home and finds out he/she
got burned on the price, they cannot get mad at the seller, because
they are the ones who bid the item up.

Dealers - check your local auction houses.

Best regards,

MikeG

--
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list


__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[mafer]

Yes Adam, provenance, COA, and ID cards can be very different things.
Saying I got some specimens from Adam, Greg, or any number of the great
people who do the collecting, purchasing, and classifying is never intended
as a COA, but, it does assure others that it's not from the driveway,
railway, or some cave somewhere. 




On 3:41:58 pm 03/24/12 Adam Hupe  wrote:
> I think collectors might be confusing COAs with ID cards.  We are
> lucky that ID cards suffice in the meteorite market most of the time. 
> As far as I know, nobody has passed off counterfeit ID cards from my
> collection yet.  This would be like poking a stick into a beehive as
> far as I am concerned.  The only COAs I have provided that were printed
> by myself were for crumbs or cutting dust encased in laminated
> collectors cards. The pieces were so small that I felt collectors would
> appreciate a little more assurance. They are also serialized with the
> certification statement on the back.
> The only other COAs I have provided came with some NWA 5000
> specimens.  These COAs came from an immensely-qualified independent
> grader.  I had no input whatsoever on how individual specimens would be
> graded since many factors were independently taken into account.   I
> have never graded any specimens myself.  I have however provided
> comments when I feel a special feature needs to be pointed out. The
> grades that came on my ID cards were provided by researchers approved
> by the Meteoritical Society's Nomenclature Committee and can be
> referenced in the Bulletin.  Despite popular belief, there are a few
> errors in the Bulletin so no system is perfect. 
>
> I hope this clears things up,
>
> Kind Regards,
>
>
> Adam
>
> 
> From: John higgins 
> To: "meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com"  tral.com>
> Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 11:31 AM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )
>
> Hi Mike, Adam, and List,
> Interesting opinions.
>
> You guys touched on a major issue in the Meteorite Community, and
> there are parts of your statements I don't agree with. I would really
> like to share how I feel about the subject.
> First of all Mike you said,
>
> " I thought this was laughable for obvious
> reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
> COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
> grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
> it."
>
> Mike with all due respect, I don't agree with this. Why would you try
> to knock a dealers reputation? For example a meteorite sold by Mike
> Farmer or Greg Hupe is worth more than a meteorite that is sold without
> any provenance or COA.
> For example lets say unknown dealer X is selling a Howardite, and
> well known dealer Y is selling the same Howardite. Who do you think is
> going to realize a higher price? The well know dealer.
> Now if that meteorite losses it's COA from the dealer who sold it,
> what happens? Usually the meteorite immediately looses value, how can
> you explain this if the COA is not worth the paper it's printed on?
> For example a meteorite said to be from from the Bob Hagg collection
> without Bob's paperwork has a much lower value than a meteorite from
> the Bob Hagg collection with his COA right?
> So please extrapolate exactly what you mean and how you come to this
> conclusion. I strongly disagree with your opinion. Much of the value in
> meteorites is locked up in the provenance and not the meteorite itself
> in my opinion.
> I think what is much too overlooked is that a meteorite dealers
> reputation is the most important factor in meteorite prices. That
> includes the following they create, the friends they make, impressions
> that collectors get all translate into value and that it why most
> collectors demand individual COA's be issued with each meteorite sold.
> I think this makes a lot of sense because the process it takes to build
> a good reputation takes years. The piece of paper adds value. Of course
> a paper from Hagg is worth more than a COA from Joe Schmo. But to say
> the paper has no value is the most insane thing I ever heard. How else
> would you know if your buying pedigree meteorites from dealers who
> stand for integrity, honor and strive to provide the customer the best
> experience. A lot of new comers think that the value is in the
> meteorite itself, and then when they try to sell them, they are greatly
> let down and wonder why their meteorites don't fetch the same price
> that the other more well known dealers get all day long. Because it
> comes down to more than just the meteorite itself and taking it for
&

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[Adam Hupe]

I think collectors might be confusing COAs with ID cards.  We are lucky that ID 
cards suffice in the meteorite market most of the time.  As far as I know, 
nobody has passed off counterfeit ID cards from my collection yet.  This would 
be like poking a stick into a beehive as far as I am concerned.  The only COAs 
I have provided that were printed by myself were for crumbs or cutting dust 
encased in laminated collectors cards. The pieces were so small that I felt 
collectors would appreciate a little more assurance. They are also serialized 
with the certification statement on the back.

The only other COAs I have provided came with some NWA 5000 specimens.  These 
COAs came from an immensely-qualified independent grader.  I had no input 
whatsoever on how individual specimens would be graded since many factors were 
independently taken into account.   I have never graded any specimens myself.  
I have however provided comments when I feel a special feature needs to be 
pointed out. The grades that came on my ID cards were provided by researchers 
approved by the Meteoritical Society's Nomenclature Committee and can be 
referenced in the Bulletin.  Despite popular belief, there are a few errors in 
the Bulletin so no system is perfect.  


I hope this clears things up,

Kind Regards,


Adam


From: John higgins 
To: "meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com"  
Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 11:31 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

Hi Mike, Adam, and List,
Interesting opinions.

You guys touched on a major issue in the Meteorite Community, and there are 
parts of your statements I don't agree with. I would really like to share how I 
feel about the subject.

First of all Mike you said, 

" I thought this was laughable for obvious
reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
it."

Mike with all due respect, I don't agree with this. Why would you try to knock 
a dealers reputation? For example a meteorite sold by Mike Farmer or Greg Hupe 
is worth more than a meteorite that is sold without any provenance or COA. 

For example lets say unknown dealer X is selling a Howardite, and well known 
dealer Y is selling the same Howardite. Who do you think is going to realize a 
higher price? The well know dealer. 

Now if that meteorite losses it's COA from the dealer who sold it, what 
happens? Usually the meteorite immediately looses value, how can you explain 
this if the COA is not worth the paper it's printed on? 

For example a meteorite said to be from from the Bob Hagg collection without 
Bob's paperwork has a much lower value than a meteorite from the Bob Hagg 
collection with his COA right? 

So please extrapolate exactly what you mean and how you come to this 
conclusion. I strongly disagree with your opinion. Much of the value in 
meteorites is locked up in the provenance and not the meteorite itself in my 
opinion.

I think what is much too overlooked is that a meteorite dealers reputation is 
the most important factor in meteorite prices. That includes the following they 
create, the friends they make, impressions that collectors get all translate 
into value and that it why most collectors demand individual COA's be issued 
with each meteorite sold. I think this makes a lot of sense because the process 
it takes to build a good reputation takes years. The piece of paper adds value. 
Of course a paper from Hagg is worth more than a COA from Joe Schmo. But to say 
the paper has no value is the most insane thing I ever heard. How else would 
you know if your buying pedigree meteorites from dealers who stand for 
integrity, honor and strive to provide the customer the best experience. A lot 
of new comers think that the value is in the meteorite itself, and then when 
they try to sell them, they are greatly let down and wonder why their 
meteorites don't fetch the same price that
the other more well known dealers get all day long. Because it comes down to 
more than just the meteorite itself and taking it for face value. You fail to 
consider the amount of friends the advanced dealers had made over the years, 
the networking they have done and the awareness they have created about their 
meteorite and the way they are presented. And most importantly the way they 
make their customers feel is the most important factor to me.

Is it just a roughly cut rock, sloppily thrown in a bag with a sharpie marking? 
OR IS IT A EXPERIENCE FOR THE CUSTOMER? The experience adds value, making the 
customer feel good is an integral part of any business, even meteorite dealing. 
The COA and provenance conveys that feeling to the customer. It makes them say 
WOW! I can't wait to see what this dealer has to offer me next. It gives 

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Yinan Wang]

Speaking from experience with many auction houses: most houses stay around the 
20% range but the bigger ones charge photo fees of $100-$400 and a buy back 
fee. So are they a better value than eBay? With the major auction houses, I 
find that about 40-60% of items I consign will sell. Most will sell at my 
reserve, but 1 in 4 will go for a crazy high price because of bidding wars. 

So I tend to use eBay for most of my low priced or specimens that are too 
specialized, while I consign more expensive or pretty items to auction houses. 
Pretty with a good story sells.

- yinan

Sent from my iPhone

On Mar 23, 2012, at 8:13 PM, "Bob Falls"  wrote:

> 
> Hi Adam,
> I was watching this show the other night (different episode) and did catch 
> them say at the
> beginning that the auction house takes a 20% sellers premium.  I have never 
> worked with an
> auction house however this does not seem too bad based on the draw this 
> auction seems to have.
> 
> Best Regards,
> Bob Falls
> Colorado Springs, CO
> 
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com
> [mailto:meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com] On Behalf Of Adam Hupe
> Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 9:31 AM
> To: Adam
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
> 
> A lot of buyers judge the price of collectable items from eBay.  EBay is 
> not known for fetching top dollar, especially on collectables.  A solid 
> auction house will almost always fetch more than what would be realized 
> on eBay.  The problem with many auction houses is that their commissions are 
> out of line, some
> charging in excess of 40%! Then some fleece the 
> buyers with expensive shipping and handling fees.
> 
> Don't get me wrong, there are a few great auction companies out there, I have 
> used some of
> them.  One problem I encountered is that if the item 
> doesn't sell or the buyer can't pay for the item after bidding on it, 
> then the seller can be out of some serious money including catalog and 
> no-sell fees.  They need to do a better job of vetting their bidders!
> 
> A lot of dealers don't bother with middle men anymore since they can get 
> wholesale prices right off of eBay.  Some specialty shops get most of 
> there product from eBay, mark it up considerably and put it on their 
> shelves. The problem is that a lot the collectable items offered on eBay have 
> no expertise
> behind them and are accidentally or purposely 
> misrepresented.
> 
> There are reputable independent companies that can authenticate and paper 
> items so COAs  are important to me.  I wouldn't purchase a valuable 
> coin, baseball card or any other collectable without first seeing that 
> it has been papered through an independent grading and certificate 
> service.  A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big 
> bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where 
> some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves.
> 
> Kind Regards and Happy Collecting,
> 
> Adam
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 
> __
> 
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Richard Montgomery]

Yeah, I initially had the same reaction as Count...maybe not a good idea to 
switch the paradigm from in-the-know-competitive-market-driven-values to a 
free-for-all-mystique-value which eventually would upset at least some of 
the participants when the competitive-market-driven-values are discovered.


Yet, who knows...value is where one finds it.  As our passion now enjoys 
front-stage TV recognition, I'd be wrong to assert that mystique-value, (and 
throw in celebrity-value, howdy Geoff and Steve!) isn't now a new element; 
simply check ebay to see how celebrity status carries the day (something I 
applaud.)  I doubt that rare metoeriteswill ever even enter into this arena: 
imagine if the consigned piece was a 1 gram 100% crusted Tissint...we'd hear 
the silence in the roomand wish we'd been there to offer $600 for the 
"tiny little thing."


Hmmm...this is an interesting thread.

Richard Montgomery


- Original Message - 
From: "Count Deiro" 
To: "MexicoDoug" ; ; 
; 

Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 2:54 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin



Hi List,

Most auctioneers and auction bidders wouldn't be able to tell a meteorite 
from a charcoal briquet. I think the rock in question sold cheap. The 
seller could have put $2,000 as the reserve and those bidders would have 
slugged it out to an even higher figure. Why do I say that? Because what 
they did proved They didn't know market prices, so they were being 
motivated by mystique, the Public misconception of value due to popular 
media BS... and finally...good ole competition between each other. Seen it 
happen a hundred times. It will keep happening until we screw it up by 
flooding the small auction houses with meteorites and telling everyone 
when they have paid too much.


And if it bothers you to see someone pay more for something than you 
would. Then ask yourself...Am I upset because I could have been the seller 
and made that killing? Or am I upset because somebody made a bad buy? I 
thought so.


Regards,

Count Deiro
IMCA 3536


-Original Message-

From: MexicoDoug 
Sent: Mar 23, 2012 12:43 PM
To: meteoritem...@gmail.com, meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

Mike G wrote:

"He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of a
grapefruit."

"I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for
about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed unrealistic
to me."

Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on
eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.
A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States
Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink
grapefruit size, is ...

3.61 kg.

So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for
these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving stuff
away on eBay. ;-)
The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are
building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact $1000
may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may
not have.

Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?

http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg

" and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"

???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing
about meteorites?

Kindest wishes
Doug







-Original Message-
From: Michael Gilmer 
To: meteorite-list 
Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin


Hi Folks,

So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.

Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.

The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins

This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.

First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
reasons and a man who runs an auction house

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Bob Falls]

Hi Adam,
I was watching this show the other night (different episode) and did catch them 
say at the
beginning that the auction house takes a 20% sellers premium.  I have never 
worked with an
auction house however this does not seem too bad based on the draw this auction 
seems to have.

Best Regards,
Bob Falls
Colorado Springs, CO


-Original Message-
From: meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com
[mailto:meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com] On Behalf Of Adam Hupe
Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 9:31 AM
To: Adam
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

A lot of buyers judge the price of collectable items from eBay.  EBay is 
not known for fetching top dollar, especially on collectables.  A solid 
auction house will almost always fetch more than what would be realized 
on eBay.  The problem with many auction houses is that their commissions are 
out of line, some
charging in excess of 40%! Then some fleece the 
buyers with expensive shipping and handling fees.

Don't get me wrong, there are a few great auction companies out there, I have 
used some of
them.  One problem I encountered is that if the item 
doesn't sell or the buyer can't pay for the item after bidding on it, 
then the seller can be out of some serious money including catalog and 
no-sell fees.  They need to do a better job of vetting their bidders!

A lot of dealers don't bother with middle men anymore since they can get 
wholesale prices right off of eBay.  Some specialty shops get most of 
there product from eBay, mark it up considerably and put it on their 
shelves. The problem is that a lot the collectable items offered on eBay have 
no expertise
behind them and are accidentally or purposely 
misrepresented.

There are reputable independent companies that can authenticate and paper 
items so COAs  are important to me.  I wouldn't purchase a valuable 
coin, baseball card or any other collectable without first seeing that 
it has been papered through an independent grading and certificate 
service.  A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big 
bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where 
some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves.

Kind Regards and Happy Collecting,

Adam
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Thunder Stone]

I've seen this show a number of times and there was no reserve, for some reason 
there just was a lot of bidding.
Greg S

-Original Message-

From: Count Deiro
Sent: 23 Mar 2012 21:54:25 GMT
To: 
MexicoDoug,meteoritem...@gmail.com,meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com,meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

Hi List,

Most auctioneers and auction bidders wouldn't be able to tell a meteorite from 
a charcoal briquet. I think the rock in question sold cheap. The seller could 
have put $2,000 as the reserve and those bidders would have slugged it out to 
an even higher figure. Why do I say that? Because what they did proved They 
didn't know market prices, so they were being motivated by mystique, the Public 
misconception of value due to popular media BS... and finally...good ole 
competition between each other. Seen it happen a hundred times. It will keep 
happening until we screw it up by flooding the small auction houses with 
meteorites and telling everyone when they have paid too much.

And if it bothers you to see someone pay more for something than you would. 
Then ask yourself...Am I upset because I could have been the seller and made 
that killing? Or am I upset because somebody made a bad buy? I thought so.

Regards,

Count Deiro
IMCA 3536


-Original Message-
>From: MexicoDoug 
>Sent: Mar 23, 2012 12:43 PM
>To: meteoritem...@gmail.com, meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
>
>Mike G wrote:
>
>"He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of a
>grapefruit."
>
>"I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for
>about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed unrealistic
>to me."
>
>Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on
>eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.
>A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States
>Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink
>grapefruit size, is ...
>
>3.61 kg.
>
>So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for
>these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving stuff
>away on eBay. ;-)
>The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are
>building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact $1000
>may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may
>not have.
>
>Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?
>
>http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg
>
>" and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"
>
>???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing
>about meteorites?
>
>Kindest wishes
>Doug
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>-Original Message-
>From: Michael Gilmer 
>To: meteorite-list 
>Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
>Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
>
>
>Hi Folks,
>
>So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
>saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
>featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
>was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.
>
>Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
>sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
>sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.
>
>The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins
>
>This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
>camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
>the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
>shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
>what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
>appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.
>
>First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
>certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
>reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
>COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
>grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
>it.
>
>Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
>"magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
>key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
>on this misconception and use of improper terminolog

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[Michael Gilmer]

Hi John,

Thanks for the kind words.  You must be one of the half-dozen people
on this List that I have not alienated over the years with my big
mouth.

I like to think that I make positive contributions to the meteorite
world, in my own small way.  Now if I can just learn to keep my foot
out of my mouth.  But man, I love the taste of my boots.  LOL.

Maybe this issue of standardized provenance is an issue that the IMCA
can tackle.  It sounds like something right up their alley.  And
although I am not a member, I would be happy to comply with whatever
rules might emerge as part of a solution.

Best regards,

MikeG

-- 
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---


On 3/23/12, John higgins  wrote:
> Hi Mike,
>
> I consider that little piece of paper you put inside the micros a valid
> provenance and COA.
> It's your design and has your name on it. Regardless of how small or cheap
> others perceive it to be, it's unique and it's the only provenance that
> comes from you. That in and of itself makes it special, and something worth
> being proud of. It adds a cultural and historic attribute to every meteorite
> you sell.
>
> You don't have to explain yourself, I consider you a friend, I like you and
> the meteorites you provide, I like your comments to the list, you and solely
> you, add a dimension to the meteorite world where there would otherwise be a
> empty space. When I see your post I don't always respond but I always take
> pleasure in reading what you have to say. People don't have to agree with
> you, who cares if they agree or not, you take pride in what you do and you
> make a incredible effort making great contributions to the meteorite
> community on a daily basis.
>
> And let me be the first to Thank you for being who you are, telling it like
> it is, and shooting from the hip, telling people how you feel,In my book
> that puts you near the top of the list. Not too many people put themselves
> out there like you do. Even though your not big on contributing great
> volumes of new meteorites, you more than make up for it in contributions you
> make elsewhere.
>
> Sincerely,
> John Higgins
>
> PS. I still am in support of standardization of provenance.
>
>
>
> 
> From: Michael Gilmer 
> To: John higgins 
> Cc: "meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com"
> 
> Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 5:00 PM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )
>
> Hi John,
>
> Some specimen cards or COA's would be easier to counterfeit than
> others.  The best one I have seen, in regards to difficulty to
> duplicate, would be the cards issued by Martin Altmann and Stefan
> Ralew.  Their specimen card is very glossy and professional, but it
> also has an embedded hologram.  This adds an extra element of
> difficulty to reproducing their cards and would act as a solid
> deterrent.
>
> Truthfully, I don't issue COA's (or even specimen cards) with the vast
> majority of my specimens for one reason - cost.  The bulk of my sales
> are specks, crumbs, and tiny pieces that cost $10 or less.  It's just
> not financially viable for me to produce cards and COA's for every
> little micro I sell.  At the rate I sell micros, I would need
> thousands of them over the course of time, and I just cannot afford
> the expense.  When I have to choose between putting gas in my truck
> (or food in my belly) and ordering up a batch of specimen cards to be
> custom made, I have to pick the former.  I operate on razor-thin
> margins and this is how I feed my family.  I don't have a day job or
> income outside of meteorites.  Also, my inventory has such a high
> turnover rate, that a meteorite I have in stock today might be gone
> tomorrow and might never be offered again.  And I am a man of
> opportunity, most of my acquisitions are based on opportunity alone
> and are not planned.  I have no idea what I will be offering tomorrow
> or next week.  Frankly, I am flying by the seat of my pants.
>
> I'm not saying what I do is best or should be emulated by others.  By
> the time I figure in the cost of packing-shipping materials (bubble
> mailers, baggies, gemjars, printer paper/ink, mailing labels) and
> other stuff like business cards, I am already spending about $2 on
> packaging each $5 micromount.  Figure in PayPal fees and the profit
> gets even smaller.  I have to draw a line somewhere and I draw it at
> COA&#

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Count Deiro]

Hi List,

Most auctioneers and auction bidders wouldn't be able to tell a meteorite from 
a charcoal briquet. I think the rock in question sold cheap. The seller could 
have put $2,000 as the reserve and those bidders would have slugged it out to 
an even higher figure. Why do I say that? Because what they did proved They 
didn't know market prices, so they were being motivated by mystique, the Public 
misconception of value due to popular media BS... and finally...good ole 
competition between each other. Seen it happen a hundred times. It will keep 
happening until we screw it up by flooding the small auction houses with 
meteorites and telling everyone when they have paid too much. 

And if it bothers you to see someone pay more for something than you would. 
Then ask yourself...Am I upset because I could have been the seller and made 
that killing? Or am I upset because somebody made a bad buy? I thought so. 

Regards,

Count Deiro
IMCA 3536   


-Original Message-
>From: MexicoDoug 
>Sent: Mar 23, 2012 12:43 PM
>To: meteoritem...@gmail.com, meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
>
>Mike G wrote:
>
>"He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of a 
>grapefruit."
>
>"I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for 
>about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed unrealistic 
>to me."
>
>Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on 
>eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.  
>A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States 
>Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink 
>grapefruit size, is ...
>
>3.61 kg.
>
>So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for 
>these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving stuff 
>away on eBay. ;-)
>The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are 
>building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact $1000 
>may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may 
>not have.
>
>Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?
>
>http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg
>
>" and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"
>
>???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing 
>about meteorites?
>
>Kindest wishes
>Doug
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>-Original Message-
>From: Michael Gilmer 
>To: meteorite-list 
>Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
>Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
>
>
>Hi Folks,
>
>So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
>saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
>featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
>was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.
>
>Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
>sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
>sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.
>
>The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins
>
>This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
>camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
>the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
>shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
>what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
>appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.
>
>First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
>certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
>reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
>COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
>grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
>it.
>
>Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
>"magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
>key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
>on this misconception and use of improper terminology because the real
>kicker was still to come.
>
>So the owner tells the auction house that he is hoping to sell the
>meteorite to help pay for a vacation to Paris and he wants $1000 for
>it.
>
>Ok, at no point in the show was the weight of the specimen ever
>mentioned.  So without knowing the weight, it is difficult to assign
>to solid value to

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[John higgins]

Hi Mike, 

I consider that little piece of paper you put inside the micros a valid 
provenance and COA.
It's your design and has your name on it. Regardless of how small or cheap 
others perceive it to be, it's unique and it's the only provenance that comes 
from you. That in and of itself makes it special, and something worth being 
proud of. It adds a cultural and historic attribute to every meteorite you 
sell. 

You don't have to explain yourself, I consider you a friend, I like you and the 
meteorites you provide, I like your comments to the list, you and solely you, 
add a dimension to the meteorite world where there would otherwise be a empty 
space. When I see your post I don't always respond but I always take pleasure 
in reading what you have to say. People don't have to agree with you, who cares 
if they agree or not, you take pride in what you do and you make a incredible 
effort making great contributions to the meteorite community on a daily basis. 

And let me be the first to Thank you for being who you are, telling it like it 
is, and shooting from the hip, telling people how you feel,In my book that puts 
you near the top of the list. Not too many people put themselves out there like 
you do. Even though your not big on contributing great volumes of new 
meteorites, you more than make up for it in contributions you make elsewhere.

Sincerely,
John Higgins

PS. I still am in support of standardization of provenance.




From: Michael Gilmer 
To: John higgins  
Cc: "meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com"  
Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 5:00 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

Hi John,

Some specimen cards or COA's would be easier to counterfeit than
others.  The best one I have seen, in regards to difficulty to
duplicate, would be the cards issued by Martin Altmann and Stefan
Ralew.  Their specimen card is very glossy and professional, but it
also has an embedded hologram.  This adds an extra element of
difficulty to reproducing their cards and would act as a solid
deterrent.

Truthfully, I don't issue COA's (or even specimen cards) with the vast
majority of my specimens for one reason - cost.  The bulk of my sales
are specks, crumbs, and tiny pieces that cost $10 or less.  It's just
not financially viable for me to produce cards and COA's for every
little micro I sell.  At the rate I sell micros, I would need
thousands of them over the course of time, and I just cannot afford
the expense.  When I have to choose between putting gas in my truck
(or food in my belly) and ordering up a batch of specimen cards to be
custom made, I have to pick the former.  I operate on razor-thin
margins and this is how I feed my family.  I don't have a day job or
income outside of meteorites.  Also, my inventory has such a high
turnover rate, that a meteorite I have in stock today might be gone
tomorrow and might never be offered again.  And I am a man of
opportunity, most of my acquisitions are based on opportunity alone
and are not planned.  I have no idea what I will be offering tomorrow
or next week.  Frankly, I am flying by the seat of my pants.

I'm not saying what I do is best or should be emulated by others.  By
the time I figure in the cost of packing-shipping materials (bubble
mailers, baggies, gemjars, printer paper/ink, mailing labels) and
other stuff like business cards, I am already spending about $2 on
packaging each $5 micromount.  Figure in PayPal fees and the profit
gets even smaller.  I have to draw a line somewhere and I draw it at
COA's and specimen cards.  Not to mention the 20% off coupons I throw
around on the web.

Every micro I sell comes in a 1.25" gemjar that has a paper label
inside.  The paper label states the meteorite name, locality, type,
and my URL/name.  That small piece of paper, is for all intents and
purposes my specimen card.  On larger or higher-dollar specimens, I do
offer specimen cards.  Or, if I am reselling a specimen I bought from
another dealer, I pass along the original specimen card or a copy of
it.  Also, if a buyer requests it, I will provide a specimen card (of
the conventional type) for any micro I sell.  Most buyers don't
request it.

I am aware that I lose potential buyers because of how I present my
meteorites in a spartan way.  I have had several collectors contact me
privately and tell me this.  Honestly, I am not trying to compete with
the big guys, the Hupes, Farmer, Cottingham, or any of you veteran
dealers.  I don't have the financial ability to compete and I have no
desire either.  I am quite happy in the small niche I have carved out
for myself.  I have a cadre of repeat customers who like what I offer
and they come back again and again.  If they are happy, then I am
happy. They know what I offer, and if they want a big specimen, they
go elsewhere.  I often refer them to the other dealer

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[Michael Gilmer]

On 3/23/12, John higgins  wrote:
> Hi Mike and List,
>
>
> What a great response, thanks for that. I greatly appreciate your comments.
> Mike I really love and enjoy buying your meteorites and they all come with
> ID cards.
> You always give a nice one, I think this debate comes down to the
> confusion over what is a ID card, compared to what is a COA and the umbrella
> of
> provenance it all falls under.
>
> I really feel that the paper adds a Cultural and Historical dimension to
> otherwise what would only be a Scientific object.
>
> It's important because the provenance can help add to the scientific value
> as well, it's like a tracking number. And can help you find out more
> information about the specimen in the future if you want to find out more.
> Now this is where a standardized data form comes into play and would
> immediately add value to all meteorites sold in the future. Wouldn't it be
> worth it to have some of the historical background as to how the meteorite
> came about other than what is stored on the meteoritical society data base?
> What if Joe Schmo ends up with a rare meteorite that originated from another
> collection and it looks a little funny, what should you be expected to do,
> test every specimen or trust the Provenance that comes with it? You have to
> then make a judgment call, first you evaluate who is Joe Schmo? Then you
> evaluate all the documents as well as the story that comes along with it. Or
> like you said you can already know Joe Schmoe and trust the guy or not.
>
> Now you say it's a big world of all different kinds of people looking to buy
> meteorites.
>
> Sure there is a BIG WORLD of meteorite collectors from every echelon of
> existence. It's fine if you want to focus on the newbies or those who don't
> know enough about provenance and reputation or those that don't even care.
> It's a free World, thank God last time I checked, people are free to choose
> to and do whatever they want at least for the most part in some countries.
> But don't you want to stand out among and impress all the advanced
> collectors and buyers that do care? That's a huge percentage of potential
> customers that your shafting by not providing supporting documentation. That
> why I think COA's, ID, Provenance whatever you choose to call it should be
> provided with each and every specimen. It might not add value for everybody,
> but it will to the ones who care, and I don't think there is a shortage of
> collectors who are passionate and care enough to say it's important.
>
>
> You say, sure anyone can scan and copy and make a fake COA, but I don't
> think it's that easy, how can you get the same paper, the same patina that
> you only get with age on that paper? I truly beg to differ on this. And if
> your worried about someone copying your COA then you should go the extra
> mile to make it copy deterrent. You are only hurting yourself if you make a
> flimsy photocopy that someone can easily duplicate. That all comes back
> round to your reputation.
>
> That should be your job as the seller to make sure you customer is confident
> that they are getting what you say. I don't think this is a valid excuse to
> say because it can be copied it should not be done, you can easily make a
> excuse for anything, that doesn't make it right.
>
>
> I know there is great confusion about the differences between a Specimen
> Card, ID Card, COA.
>
> In my opinion they all fall under the same umbrella, provenance.
>
> I see the paper as the dealers reputation, when they do a good job on the
> COA, it shows me they care, they want to go the extra mile for the
> collector. I like that.
>
>
> The extreme position you can take for being against COA's.
> "We know where the specimen comes from, Outer Space."
>
> But I think that statement can turn into another argument in and of itself.
> It sells the meteorite short in my opinion.
>
>
> I like to buy from dealers who care about presentation, don't mind spending
> a extra few minutes to build that WOW factor that nobody no matter how hard
> they try can duplicate.
>
>
> I agree with you Mike, when I get those packages in the zip-lock with no ID
> card or anything. It makes me wanna cry.
> makes me want to yell at the top of my lungs:
>
> SHOW SOME RESPECT FOR THE CULTURE AND THE SCIENCE!
>
> I urge other dealers to take the extra steps to advance our COA's together
> we can elevate meteorite collecting to the next level, and put our
> meteorites where they belong up on the pedestal.
>
> Yes you can say I'm passionate about meteorites in every respect

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Michael Gilmer]

Yup, that's it.  :)

My main point in posting that originally was to say that dealers might
consider looking into their local auction houses as an alternate venue
for sales.  With eBay fees continually climbing, there might come a
day when the local auction house's fees are not that much higher than
selling on eBay.  Combined listing, final value, and PayPal fees
already have reached about 10% of the sale price, so we are well on
our way.

The auction market is a fickle mistress indeed.

Best regards,

MikeG

-- 
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---


On 3/23/12, MexicoDoug  wrote:
> "The Sikhote on the TV show was similar in size, shape, and quality to
> this one - http://www.ebay...";
>
> Something like this?
> http://dsc.discovery.com/videos/auction-kings-meteorite-man.html
>
> "that is up to the buyer to decide"
>
> Yes - so true!
>
> Kindest wishes
> Doug
>
>
>
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Michael Gilmer 
> To: MexicoDoug 
> Cc: meteorite-list 
> Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 4:01 pm
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote
> Alin
>
>
> Hi Doug,
>
> Ok, perhaps a cueball or baseball would be a better analogy.  The
> specimen was about fist-sized and easily fit in the palm of the hand.
> I've seen similar-sized Sikhote shrapnels regularly sell for far less
> than $1000, less yet $2000.
>
> I can't state whether or not any meteorite, even my own, are a good
> deal or not - that is up to the buyer to decide.  In the case of the
> Campo irons I sell on my website, they sell and every buyer has been
> happy with their purchase - not a single complaint or return.  And
> some of those buyers were experienced collectors - they decided that a
> Campo that will never rust is worth the extra money.  (barring putting
> it into a swimming pool)
>
> The Sikhote on the TV show was similar in size, shape, and quality to
> this one -
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/Collection-Meteorite-203Gr-Shaped-SIKHOTE-ALIN-Shrapnel-/370541768509?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item564602af3d
>
> Best regards,
>
> MikeG
>
> --
> ---
> Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG
>
> Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
> Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
> Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
> RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
> ---
>
>
> On 3/23/12, MexicoDoug  wrote:
>> Mike G wrote:
>>
>> "He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of
> a
>> grapefruit."
>>
>> "I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for
>> about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed
> unrealistic
>> to me."
>>
>> Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on
>> eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.
>> A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States
>> Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink
>> grapefruit size, is ...
>>
>> 3.61 kg.
>>
>> So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for
>> these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving
> stuff
>> away on eBay. ;-)
>> The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are
>> building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact
> $1000
>> may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may
>> not have.
>>
>> Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?
>>
>>
> http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg
>>
>> " and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"
>>
>> ???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing
>> about meteorites?
>>
>> Kindest wishes
>> Doug
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> -Original Message-
>> From: Michael Gilmer 
>> To: meteorite-list 
>> Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
>> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
>>
>>
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> So last night I was going through 

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[MexicoDoug]

"The Sikhote on the TV show was similar in size, shape, and quality to 
this one - http://www.ebay...";


Something like this?
http://dsc.discovery.com/videos/auction-kings-meteorite-man.html

"that is up to the buyer to decide"

Yes - so true!

Kindest wishes
Doug





-Original Message-
From: Michael Gilmer 
To: MexicoDoug 
Cc: meteorite-list 
Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 4:01 pm
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote 
Alin



Hi Doug,

Ok, perhaps a cueball or baseball would be a better analogy.  The
specimen was about fist-sized and easily fit in the palm of the hand.
I've seen similar-sized Sikhote shrapnels regularly sell for far less
than $1000, less yet $2000.

I can't state whether or not any meteorite, even my own, are a good
deal or not - that is up to the buyer to decide.  In the case of the
Campo irons I sell on my website, they sell and every buyer has been
happy with their purchase - not a single complaint or return.  And
some of those buyers were experienced collectors - they decided that a
Campo that will never rust is worth the extra money.  (barring putting
it into a swimming pool)

The Sikhote on the TV show was similar in size, shape, and quality to
this one - 
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Collection-Meteorite-203Gr-Shaped-SIKHOTE-ALIN-Shrapnel-/370541768509?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item564602af3d


Best regards,

MikeG

--
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---


On 3/23/12, MexicoDoug  wrote:

Mike G wrote:

"He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of 

a

grapefruit."

"I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for
about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed 

unrealistic

to me."

Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on
eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.
A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States
Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink
grapefruit size, is ...

3.61 kg.

So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for
these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving 

stuff

away on eBay. ;-)
The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are
building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact 

$1000

may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may
not have.

Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?



http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg


" and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"

???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing
about meteorites?

Kindest wishes
Doug







-Original Message-
From: Michael Gilmer 
To: meteorite-list 
Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin


Hi Folks,

So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.

Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.

The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins

This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.

First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
it.

Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
"magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
on this misconception and use of improper terminology because the real
kicker was still to come.

So the owner tells the auction house that he is hoping to sel

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Michael Gilmer]

Hi Doug,

Ok, perhaps a cueball or baseball would be a better analogy.  The
specimen was about fist-sized and easily fit in the palm of the hand.
I've seen similar-sized Sikhote shrapnels regularly sell for far less
than $1000, less yet $2000.

I can't state whether or not any meteorite, even my own, are a good
deal or not - that is up to the buyer to decide.  In the case of the
Campo irons I sell on my website, they sell and every buyer has been
happy with their purchase - not a single complaint or return.  And
some of those buyers were experienced collectors - they decided that a
Campo that will never rust is worth the extra money.  (barring putting
it into a swimming pool)

The Sikhote on the TV show was similar in size, shape, and quality to
this one - 
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Collection-Meteorite-203Gr-Shaped-SIKHOTE-ALIN-Shrapnel-/370541768509?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item564602af3d

Best regards,

MikeG

-- 
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---


On 3/23/12, MexicoDoug  wrote:
> Mike G wrote:
>
> "He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of a
> grapefruit."
>
> "I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for
> about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed unrealistic
> to me."
>
> Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on
> eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.
> A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States
> Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink
> grapefruit size, is ...
>
> 3.61 kg.
>
> So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for
> these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving stuff
> away on eBay. ;-)
> The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are
> building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact $1000
> may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may
> not have.
>
> Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?
>
> http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg
>
> " and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"
>
> ???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing
> about meteorites?
>
> Kindest wishes
> Doug
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Michael Gilmer 
> To: meteorite-list 
> Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin
>
>
> Hi Folks,
>
> So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
> saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
> featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
> was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.
>
> Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
> sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
> sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.
>
> The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins
>
> This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
> camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
> the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
> shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
> what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
> appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.
>
> First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
> certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
> reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
> COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
> grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
> it.
>
> Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
> "magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
> key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
> on this misconception and use of improper terminology because the real
> kicker was still to come.
>
> So the owner tells the auction house that he is hoping to sell the
> meteorite to help pay for a vacation to Paris and he wants $1000 for
> it.
>
> Ok, at no point in the show was the weight of the specimen ever
> mentioned.  So without knowing the weight, it is difficult to assign
> to solid value to the piece.  But judging by what I saw (apparent size
> and shape), I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or
> eBay for about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed
> unrealistic to me, but this is television a

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[MexicoDoug]

Mike G wrote:

"He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about the size of a 
grapefruit."


"I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or eBay for 
about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed unrealistic 
to me."


Mike, very entertaining!  I think I will start meteorite hunting on 
eBay.  I sure would be easier than in the field if what this is true.  
A Sikhote the size of a grapefruit, if we use the United States 
Department of Agriculture's (USDA) definition for an average pink 
grapefruit size, is ...


3.61 kg.

So less eBay and paypal commissions, we must be receiving $218 for 
these Sikhote grapefruits, because we have an addiction to giving stuff 
away on eBay. ;-)
The problem with "I caught a fish and it was *this big*" is you are 
building a story around a supposition you have made, when in fact $1000 
may have been a reasonable offering price for the meteorite, or it may 
not have.


Do you think 2.29 kg Campo for $749 is a better deal?

http://www.galactic-stone.com/product/campo-del-cielo-iron-meteorite--big-centerpiece-specimen-229kg

" and a bunch of people who don't know jack about meteorites"

???:  huh?  What does an isolated sales price have to do with knowing 
about meteorites?


Kindest wishes
Doug







-Original Message-
From: Michael Gilmer 
To: meteorite-list 
Sent: Fri, Mar 23, 2012 10:38 am
Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin


Hi Folks,

So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.

Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.

The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins

This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.

First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
it.

Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
"magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
on this misconception and use of improper terminology because the real
kicker was still to come.

So the owner tells the auction house that he is hoping to sell the
meteorite to help pay for a vacation to Paris and he wants $1000 for
it.

Ok, at no point in the show was the weight of the specimen ever
mentioned.  So without knowing the weight, it is difficult to assign
to solid value to the piece.  But judging by what I saw (apparent size
and shape), I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or
eBay for about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed
unrealistic to me, but this is television and a bunch of people who
don't know jack about meteorites, so anything is possible.

The auction part comes, and they have a nice turn out with maybe two
or three dozen potential bidders in attendance.  The meteorite ignites
a bidding war and the final price for the piece was.(*drumroll
please*).. $2000!  And the buyer was thrilled because he thought
he got a good deal.  Of course, once he gets home and does some
Googling to learn more about his new meteorite, he might change his
mind about the deal he got.  He could have went on eBay and bought a
half-dozen Sikhote shrapnels of that size for $2000.

So the moral of this story is - if you have a local auction house near
you, go down there with a meteorite and you might be pleasantly
surprised how much money it will fetch.  I'm opening up the yellow
pages today and/or getting on the internet and see what kind of
auction houses we have here in the Tampa area.  I'll be more than
happy to offer them all the $200 stones and irons they want, as long
as they fetch $2000 each.  Heck, even after the auction house takes
it's percentage, that is still a great deal for the seller.

And the best part is, once the buyer gets home and finds out he/she
got burned on the price, they cannot get mad at the seller, because
they are the ones who bid the item up.

Dealers - check your local auction houses.

Best regards,

MikeG

--
---

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[Michael Gilmer]

er has to
> offer me next. It gives them something to hold onto other than just the
> meteorite itself. Sure you can put on narrow vision goggles and only focus
> on the meteorite itself, throwing everything else away and assigning
> absolutely no value as to how the meteorite ended up where it is, but I
> don't think that's a very scientific approach. It's all part of the story
> and how you ended up with the specimen is a big part of meteorites and
> collecting.
>
> I for one get very depressed when I buy a meteorite on eBay and it comes
> with no card! What happens if I lose the bag it's in or the marking wears
> off? what happens to the specimen, the value drops to 0. Cant sell it
> because you don't know what it is. And if you ever do want to sell it, how
> can you prove where it came from. The COA answers a lot of those questions,
> sure you can explain to kingdom come what it is, but it wont prove the
> origin for the 99% of meteorite collectors who demand provenance, and I
> don't blame them one bit. The value to any assigned meteorite is less
> without the papers.
>
> Now I will admit, it can all come down to perspective, when your dealing
> with small micro fragments, I sympathize with your view Mike, it's not worth
> the time or the expense to make a COA, but you can always give something,
> even a little piece of paper I hope, to say it came from you and what it is.
> Maybe comparing a micro to a macro is useless and it's like comparing Apples
> to Oranges... Two totally different perspectives that are neither right or
> wrong just are what they are, each of us our own independent opinions.
>
> Adam you said,
>
> " A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big
>  bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where
>  some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves."
>
> Adam, with all due respect, I don't understand this statement, where do you
> and your COA's fit into the picture? Don't you print the COA and
> describe/grade the meteorites you sell and classify? Sounds like you would
> be hesitant to buy meteorites from yourself? I think comparing baseball
> cards and antiques that hold cultural value to meteorites that hold both
> cultural and scientific value, is like comparing Apples to Oranges.
>
> To Everyone,
> I would like to go one step further, I urge the meteorite community at large
> to consider standardizing COA's and provenance. Each dealer should still
> have his/her own unique style but there should be a simple standardized
> field of data provided for each specimen. This will promote the science of
> studying them, adding value to all of our collections in the future.
>
> Thanks for taking the time to hear my opinion, Have a Great Day!
> Best Regards,
> John Higgins
> www.outerspacerocks.com
> IMCA # 9822
>
>
>
>
>
>
> 
> From: Michael Gilmer 
> To: Adam Hupe 
> Cc: Adam 
> Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 11:51 AM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 SikhoteAlin
>
> Hi Adam and List,
>
> Some good points there.
>
> About COA's - even if a COA comes from a trusted grading or
> certification firm, the value in the COA is not the COA itself, it is
> the name of the grading or certification service on it that is known
> to collectors of that particular type of collectible.  If you buy a
> rare collectible and the COA says "Confirmed authentic by Acme
> Certification Services, Walla Walla Washington, Serial number
> #123456", then the value of the certificate is that the buyer or
> potential buyer can contact Acme Services, have them check their
> database and confirm that the item in question is indeed genuine.
> However, anyone can print a piece of paper that looks like it came
> from Acme Certification Services and the ruse will only be exposed if
> the buyer follows up on the info printed on the COA.   The COA itself
> is worthless.
>
> In the world of meteorites, there is no certification service or
> central authority that can be relied upon to authenticate meteorites.
> Without an authoritative body backing a COA, it's just a pretty piece
> of paper.
>
> Otherwise, I agree 100% with the other things you said.  :)
>
> Best regards,
>
> MikeG
> --
> ---
> Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG
>
> Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
> Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
> Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
> RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
> 

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings ( PROVENANCE COA's )

[John higgins]

or wrong 
just are what they are, each of us our own independent opinions.

Adam you said,

" A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big
 bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where
 some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves."

Adam, with all due respect, I don't understand this statement, where do you and 
your COA's fit into the picture? Don't you print the COA and describe/grade the 
meteorites you sell and classify? Sounds like you would be hesitant to buy 
meteorites from yourself? I think comparing baseball cards and antiques that 
hold cultural value to meteorites that hold both cultural and scientific value, 
is like comparing Apples to Oranges.

To Everyone,
I would like to go one step further, I urge the meteorite community at large to 
consider standardizing COA's and provenance. Each dealer should still have 
his/her own unique style but there should be a simple standardized field of 
data provided for each specimen. This will promote the science of studying 
them, adding value to all of our collections in the future. 

Thanks for taking the time to hear my opinion, Have a Great Day!
Best Regards,
John Higgins
www.outerspacerocks.com
IMCA # 9822






____________
From: Michael Gilmer 
To: Adam Hupe  
Cc: Adam  
Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 11:51 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 SikhoteAlin

Hi Adam and List,

Some good points there.

About COA's - even if a COA comes from a trusted grading or
certification firm, the value in the COA is not the COA itself, it is
the name of the grading or certification service on it that is known
to collectors of that particular type of collectible.  If you buy a
rare collectible and the COA says "Confirmed authentic by Acme
Certification Services, Walla Walla Washington, Serial number
#123456", then the value of the certificate is that the buyer or
potential buyer can contact Acme Services, have them check their
database and confirm that the item in question is indeed genuine.
However, anyone can print a piece of paper that looks like it came
from Acme Certification Services and the ruse will only be exposed if
the buyer follows up on the info printed on the COA.   The COA itself
is worthless.

In the world of meteorites, there is no certification service or
central authority that can be relied upon to authenticate meteorites.
Without an authoritative body backing a COA, it's just a pretty piece
of paper.

Otherwise, I agree 100% with the other things you said.  :)

Best regards,

MikeG
-- 
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---



On 3/23/12, Adam Hupe  wrote:
> A lot of buyers judge the price of collectable items from eBay.  EBay is
> not known for fetching top dollar, especially on collectables.  A solid
> auction house will almost always fetch more than what would be realized
> on eBay.  The problem with many auction houses is that their commissions are
> out of line, some charging in excess of 40%! Then some fleece the
> buyers with expensive shipping and handling fees.
>
> Don't get me wrong, there are a few great auction companies out there, I
> have used some of them.  One problem I encountered is that if the item
> doesn't sell or the buyer can't pay for the item after bidding on it,
> then the seller can be out of some serious money including catalog and
> no-sell fees.  They need to do a better job of vetting their bidders!
>
> A lot of dealers don't bother with middle men anymore since they can get
> wholesale prices right off of eBay.  Some specialty shops get most of
> there product from eBay, mark it up considerably and put it on their
> shelves. The problem is that a lot the collectable items offered on eBay
> have no expertise behind them and are accidentally or purposely
> misrepresented.
>
> There are reputable independent companies that can authenticate and paper
> items so COAs  are important to me.  I wouldn't purchase a valuable
> coin, baseball card or any other collectable without first seeing that
> it has been papered through an independent grading and certificate
> service.  A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big
> bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where
> some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves.
>
> Kind Regards and Happy Collecting,
>
> Adam
> __
>
> Visit the Archives at
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archiv

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Thunder Stone]

Michael: I watch this show as I'm fascinated will all kinds of collectables, 
and this is an old episode which first aired about a year ago. The auction 
house is based in Atlanta GA. I agree that it was very high, but the is the 
nature of autions. Perhaps try one near and see what happens.
Greg S

-Original Message-

From: Michael Gilmer
Sent: 23 Mar 2012 14:38:21 GMT
To: meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

Hi Folks,

So last night I was going through the channel guide on cable TV and I
saw that a show called "Auction Kings" was going to have a segment
featuring a meteorite.  I had never watched this show before, but I
was very curious to see what type of meteorite would be shown.

Apparently, the show is about a local auction house somewhere (not
sure where).  People bring in unusual items and the auction house
sells them at open auction while the cameras follow the action.

The meteorite segment came and here is where the fun begins

This guy walks in carrying a Pelican-style case about the size of a
camera case.  He opens it and brings out a Sikhote Alin shrapnel about
the size of a grapefruit.  The meteorite had a nice patina, but the
shape was not very interesting or sculpted.  In other words, it was
what most of us would call a "lump", but it was obvious from the
appearance that it was a genuine Sikhote.

First, the auction house guy was impressed because the meteorite had a
certificate of authenticity.  I thought this was laughable for obvious
reasons and a man who runs an auction house should know that 99% of
COA's are not worth the paper they are printed on.  I can go outside,
grab a rock from my driveway, and print up an official-looking COA for
it.

Next, the owner proceeds to demonstrate that the meteorite is
"magnetic" because a magnet will stick to it and that is one of the
key tests to determine if a meteorite is genuine.  I'll skip comment
on this misconception and use of improper terminology because the real
kicker was still to come.

So the owner tells the auction house that he is hoping to sell the
meteorite to help pay for a vacation to Paris and he wants $1000 for
it.

Ok, at no point in the show was the weight of the specimen ever
mentioned.  So without knowing the weight, it is difficult to assign
to solid value to the piece.  But judging by what I saw (apparent size
and shape), I'd guess the piece would sell on the meteorite market or
eBay for about $250-$300.  The owner's desired price of $1000 seemed
unrealistic to me, but this is television and a bunch of people who
don't know jack about meteorites, so anything is possible.

The auction part comes, and they have a nice turn out with maybe two
or three dozen potential bidders in attendance.  The meteorite ignites
a bidding war and the final price for the piece was.(*drumroll
please*).. $2000!  And the buyer was thrilled because he thought
he got a good deal.  Of course, once he gets home and does some
Googling to learn more about his new meteorite, he might change his
mind about the deal he got.  He could have went on eBay and bought a
half-dozen Sikhote shrapnels of that size for $2000.

So the moral of this story is - if you have a local auction house near
you, go down there with a meteorite and you might be pleasantly
surprised how much money it will fetch.  I'm opening up the yellow
pages today and/or getting on the internet and see what kind of
auction houses we have here in the Tampa area.  I'll be more than
happy to offer them all the $200 stones and irons they want, as long
as they fetch $2000 each.  Heck, even after the auction house takes
it's percentage, that is still a great deal for the seller.

And the best part is, once the buyer gets home and finds out he/she
got burned on the price, they cannot get mad at the seller, because
they are the ones who bid the item up.

Dealers - check your local auction houses.

Best regards,

MikeG

--
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Michael Gilmer]

Hi Adam and List,

Some good points there.

About COA's - even if a COA comes from a trusted grading or
certification firm, the value in the COA is not the COA itself, it is
the name of the grading or certification service on it that is known
to collectors of that particular type of collectible.  If you buy a
rare collectible and the COA says "Confirmed authentic by Acme
Certification Services, Walla Walla Washington, Serial number
#123456", then the value of the certificate is that the buyer or
potential buyer can contact Acme Services, have them check their
database and confirm that the item in question is indeed genuine.
However, anyone can print a piece of paper that looks like it came
from Acme Certification Services and the ruse will only be exposed if
the buyer follows up on the info printed on the COA.   The COA itself
is worthless.

In the world of meteorites, there is no certification service or
central authority that can be relied upon to authenticate meteorites.
Without an authoritative body backing a COA, it's just a pretty piece
of paper.

Otherwise, I agree 100% with the other things you said.  :)

Best regards,

MikeG
-- 
---
Galactic Stone & Ironworks - MikeG

Web: http://www.galactic-stone.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/galacticstone
Twitter: http://twitter.com/GalacticStone
RSS: http://www.galactic-stone.com/rss/126516
---



On 3/23/12, Adam Hupe  wrote:
> A lot of buyers judge the price of collectable items from eBay.  EBay is
> not known for fetching top dollar, especially on collectables.  A solid
> auction house will almost always fetch more than what would be realized
> on eBay.  The problem with many auction houses is that their commissions are
> out of line, some charging in excess of 40%! Then some fleece the
> buyers with expensive shipping and handling fees.
>
> Don't get me wrong, there are a few great auction companies out there, I
> have used some of them.  One problem I encountered is that if the item
> doesn't sell or the buyer can't pay for the item after bidding on it,
> then the seller can be out of some serious money including catalog and
> no-sell fees.  They need to do a better job of vetting their bidders!
>
> A lot of dealers don't bother with middle men anymore since they can get
> wholesale prices right off of eBay.  Some specialty shops get most of
> there product from eBay, mark it up considerably and put it on their
> shelves. The problem is that a lot the collectable items offered on eBay
> have no expertise behind them and are accidentally or purposely
> misrepresented.
>
> There are reputable independent companies that can authenticate and paper
> items so COAs  are important to me.  I wouldn't purchase a valuable
> coin, baseball card or any other collectable without first seeing that
> it has been papered through an independent grading and certificate
> service.  A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big
> bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where
> some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves.
>
> Kind Regards and Happy Collecting,
>
> Adam
> __
>
> Visit the Archives at
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Kings meteorite - $2000 Sikhote Alin

[Adam Hupe]

A lot of buyers judge the price of collectable items from eBay.  EBay is 
not known for fetching top dollar, especially on collectables.  A solid 
auction house will almost always fetch more than what would be realized 
on eBay.  The problem with many auction houses is that their commissions are 
out of line, some charging in excess of 40%! Then some fleece the 
buyers with expensive shipping and handling fees.

Don't get me wrong, there are a few great auction companies out there, I have 
used some of them.  One problem I encountered is that if the item 
doesn't sell or the buyer can't pay for the item after bidding on it, 
then the seller can be out of some serious money including catalog and 
no-sell fees.  They need to do a better job of vetting their bidders!

A lot of dealers don't bother with middle men anymore since they can get 
wholesale prices right off of eBay.  Some specialty shops get most of 
there product from eBay, mark it up considerably and put it on their 
shelves. The problem is that a lot the collectable items offered on eBay have 
no expertise behind them and are accidentally or purposely 
misrepresented.

There are reputable independent companies that can authenticate and paper 
items so COAs  are important to me.  I wouldn't purchase a valuable 
coin, baseball card or any other collectable without first seeing that 
it has been papered through an independent grading and certificate 
service.  A properly papered item will almost always bring in the big 
bucks in an auction house whereas it may not do so well on eBay where 
some dealers tend to print their own COAs and grade items themselves.

Kind Regards and Happy Collecting,

Adam
__

Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction (ad))

[Michael Blood]

Hi All,
There are now 74 (or is it 76?) lots up and the vast majority now
Have their photos in.
Current rate for consignment is 14%, however, since there is room
for 25 more at this late date, I am offering a ONE TIME deal - the next 25
accepted lots by THURSDAY at midnight, will be granted the rate prior to
Dec. 16th,  12%. You must have your list of items (Name, type, location,
Weight, description) in by Thurs. at midnight but have until BEFORE
Saturday 3 PM all jpgs in.
ONLY the first 25 items in will get this brake. Auctioneer (that
would be me) has the right to decline any lot for any reason, including
Low quality, size, value, desire to include a minimum bid, etc.
See what;s up now at:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson12.html

Thanks to all, Michael

-
Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS season!

 
 






__
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Catalog now "Up"

[Michael Blood]

The 2012 Tucson Auction Catalog is now "UP" and will continue to grow.
People are submitting as I write. As of the moment there
Are 60 specimens listed with 15 having Photos and the rest of
The photos coming in between tomorrow to 10 days. (By the time all
The photos for items currently listed are in there will be numerous
Other items added.
If you have something nice, now is the time to list it with
Me to get it "up" for people to start drooling.
To see the On Line Catalog go to:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson12.html

NOTE: items are NOT in the order in which they will be listed in the
Final catalog - @ mid Jan. when I will also provide an easy-print
Version.
Thanks, Michael

Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS season!


 
 






__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction

[Count Deiro]

Michael,

You are a stand up guy. Very few men have the intestinal fortitude to 
acknowledge an error and announce that they are taking steps to better serve 
their clients. As our Aussie mates would say "Good on ya!". Those lovelies that 
work so hard for you, Suzzane, Lisa Marie and Leigh Anne, put a great face on 
your sale and are admired by many.

Ruben and his helpers did yeoman work in giving we absentee bidders a chance to 
participate (and criticize):0}

See you next year,

Count Deiro
IMCA 3536 
 

 


-Original Message-
>From: Michael Blood 
>Sent: Feb 9, 2011 1:02 AM
>To: Meteorite List 
>Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction
>
>Hi all,
>Just got back late last night. I spent this afternoon reading how
>the auction had not gone as well as I had thought at the time.
>--
>I would like to acknowledge it was an error mentioning an absentee
>bid had hit it's max, even if on a charity item and no such mention at all
>will be made in the future regardless of the nature of the lot.
>
>I also should have unrolled the Giclee print submitted by Michael
>Gilmer have apologized to him off list, where, of course, most if not all of
>Such issues would best be addressed.
>
>Future auction catalogs will simply state, "With Reserve" or "No
>Reserve." There will be no indication of what the reserve may be.
>
>All consignors will be paid within 10 days or less, absentee bidders
>will all be contacted and the auction results will be posted on the net
>(said posting will identify price sold only, of course).
>--  
>I would like to thank Suzanne, Lisa Marie & Leigh Anne for the
>Terrific job they all did... And of course a thank you to Ruben for his
>Making it possible for list members unable to attend in person to be
>Included.  
>
>Hope most people enjoyed the show and the auction, Michael
> 
>
>
>__
>Visit the Archives at 
>http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
>Meteorite-list mailing list
>Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction

[Martin Altmann]

Hi there Captain,

don't worry.

I mean, almost every year there are complaints on the list about the
auctions, about yours or remember about Lang's.

I really don't know. As I understood, and as I perceived it, when we were
there, your auction is a meteorite-scene-internal event,
a fun, a come-together of the meteorite people, entertaining with a little
thrill
in a familiar atmosphere.
Hence not first and foremost a commercial event to earn money.
(For that, everyone can at anytime play in that anonymous ebay-thing or they
can give their stuff to professional auction houses).

I don't know, those who almost every year complain, I doubt that they would
be happier if your auction wouldn't take place anymore. 

And to hire a professional auctioneer, adding additionally high surcharges
on the hammer prices, makes no sense, especially because such one would
always be a person, who can't have any ideas about the lots he is
auctioning.

So I find it a little bit weird, that there are less list-postings than
rant-mails, which simply say:
Thank you, Captain Blood and all the helpers, for doing that all each year.

Best!
Martin



-Ursprüngliche Nachricht-
Von: meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com
[mailto:meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com] Im Auftrag von Michael
Blood
Gesendet: Mittwoch, 9. Februar 2011 10:02
An: Meteorite List
Betreff: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction

Hi all,
Just got back late last night. I spent this afternoon reading how
the auction had not gone as well as I had thought at the time.
--
I would like to acknowledge it was an error mentioning an absentee
bid had hit it's max, even if on a charity item and no such mention at all
will be made in the future regardless of the nature of the lot.

I also should have unrolled the Giclee print submitted by Michael
Gilmer have apologized to him off list, where, of course, most if not all of
Such issues would best be addressed.

Future auction catalogs will simply state, "With Reserve" or "No
Reserve." There will be no indication of what the reserve may be.

All consignors will be paid within 10 days or less, absentee bidders
will all be contacted and the auction results will be posted on the net
(said posting will identify price sold only, of course).
--  
I would like to thank Suzanne, Lisa Marie & Leigh Anne for the
Terrific job they all did... And of course a thank you to Ruben for his
Making it possible for list members unable to attend in person to be
Included.  

Hope most people enjoyed the show and the auction, Michael
 


__
Visit the Archives at
http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction

[Michael Blood]

Hi all,
Just got back late last night. I spent this afternoon reading how
the auction had not gone as well as I had thought at the time.
--
I would like to acknowledge it was an error mentioning an absentee
bid had hit it's max, even if on a charity item and no such mention at all
will be made in the future regardless of the nature of the lot.

I also should have unrolled the Giclee print submitted by Michael
Gilmer have apologized to him off list, where, of course, most if not all of
Such issues would best be addressed.

Future auction catalogs will simply state, "With Reserve" or "No
Reserve." There will be no indication of what the reserve may be.

All consignors will be paid within 10 days or less, absentee bidders
will all be contacted and the auction results will be posted on the net
(said posting will identify price sold only, of course).
--  
I would like to thank Suzanne, Lisa Marie & Leigh Anne for the
Terrific job they all did... And of course a thank you to Ruben for his
Making it possible for list members unable to attend in person to be
Included.  

Hope most people enjoyed the show and the auction, Michael
 


__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES

[Count Deiro]

Lets stay on point here.

The question on List from several members was "what are acceptable auction 
practices?" and asked that someone who knew respond. I knew, so I listed some 
acceptable auction practices. Nowhere in my dissertation is there a mention of 
last night's auction other than that more than a few consignors and bidders 
were confused and critical by their personal experiences and this prompted them 
to ask for an opinion of acceptable practices. 

I attended last night's sale online and bid through cell phone to the room. I 
opened at $500 without the block prompting and bid up to $860.00 for the 
"Meteorite Men" package solely to benefit IMCA. I did the same thing last year 
on the IMCA lot. This year I saw the lot knocked down to the only other bidder 
for a dollar more than my bid. 

Should we put in the " non acceptable practices"...don't sell out bidders who 
are bidding in three figure amounts by taking dollar bids? I think so. It 
encourages wags in the audience to cheap shot because they think it's humorous 
and if the auctioneer allows this, it lowers the price that can be obtained. An 
auctioneer with a lot that could bring a thousand has a hard row to hoe trying 
to get there after accepting a one dollar bid. It also pisses off the other 
legitimate bidder and they may stop bidding. I did.

Count Deiro
IMCA 3536   


-Original Message-
>From: Barrett Flowers 
>Sent: Feb 6, 2011 5:31 PM
>To: 'Count Deiro' , i...@imcamail.de, 
>meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>Subject: RE: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES
>
>In defense of the auction, I was there in person...as I have been for many 
>other auctions of all kinds. While I was not LOOKING for any improprieties, I 
>did not notice any.with the possible exception of the artwork in the tube. 
>All in all, we had a wonderful time at the auction, and didn't feel that 
>anything was done incorrectly. Just my opinion. Tucson has been a wonderful 
>experience and I would not have traded this trip for anything. Thanks to 
>everyone for making us feel right at home in the "community".
>Barrett & Roxanne Flowers
>SLC, UT
>"Fallen Star Hunters"
>
>-Original Message-
>From: meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com 
>[mailto:meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com] On Behalf Of Count Deiro
>Sent: Sunday, February 06, 2011 2:35 PM
>To: i...@imcamail.de; meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES
>
>Dear List,
>
>I realize that this post is going to be painful and embarrassing for some to 
>read, but more than a few attending and watching the auction last night were 
>confused and critical of how it was conducted. Today more than a couple of 
>Listers have asked on line for clarification of generally accepted auction 
>policies.
>As I am uniquely qualified, not only as a participant in this auction, (I was 
>bidding over the phone while watching on Ruben’s streaming video) but a 
>professional auctioneer with over thirty five years of experience, I will 
>offer these criticisms and explanations. 
>
>I owned and have operated some of the largest auction firms in the nation 
>since receiving my Certified Auctioneer Institute professional designation 
>from Indiana University in 1985. Prior to that, I attended Missouri Auction 
>School and served an apprenticeship at Sothebys in New York. I became licensed 
>in eight states. I was the Charter President of the Nevada State Auctioneers 
>Association. My firms have sold, and I have gaveled down, over a billion 
>dollars in real and personal property, even some meteorites at this auction 
>last year. I have sold my auction interests to family members and have been of 
>counsel to our firms and other companies for the past 15 years.
>
>So the qualifying remarks having been made…here we go:
>
>SOME (NOT ALL) AUCTION POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES
>
>Auctioneers have a legal fiduciary obligation to Consignors. 
>
>They should be knowledgeable of the items they sell and should be able to 
>pronounce names and make accurate descriptions.
>
>An auctioneer has to know the retail value of every lot and have examples to 
>quote to the audience, so that he can open the bid at a sum that encourages 
>bidders to bid on the money. Opening a $500 item at $20 is incompetence. 
>Getting an opening bid that is off the money...say $100 on a $500 item and 
>then asking for $120 instead of $200 is something you learn not to do the 
>first day at auction school. 
>
>It is critical that auctioneers make the audience believe they know what they 
>are selling, and what it’s worth, so that bidders will have confidence to bid 
>what is being asked.

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES

[Barrett Flowers]

In defense of the auction, I was there in person...as I have been for many 
other auctions of all kinds. While I was not LOOKING for any improprieties, I 
did not notice any.with the possible exception of the artwork in the tube. 
All in all, we had a wonderful time at the auction, and didn't feel that 
anything was done incorrectly. Just my opinion. Tucson has been a wonderful 
experience and I would not have traded this trip for anything. Thanks to 
everyone for making us feel right at home in the "community".
Barrett & Roxanne Flowers
SLC, UT
"Fallen Star Hunters"

-Original Message-
From: meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com 
[mailto:meteorite-list-boun...@meteoritecentral.com] On Behalf Of Count Deiro
Sent: Sunday, February 06, 2011 2:35 PM
To: i...@imcamail.de; meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES

Dear List,

I realize that this post is going to be painful and embarrassing for some to 
read, but more than a few attending and watching the auction last night were 
confused and critical of how it was conducted. Today more than a couple of 
Listers have asked on line for clarification of generally accepted auction 
policies.
As I am uniquely qualified, not only as a participant in this auction, (I was 
bidding over the phone while watching on Ruben’s streaming video) but a 
professional auctioneer with over thirty five years of experience, I will offer 
these criticisms and explanations. 

I owned and have operated some of the largest auction firms in the nation since 
receiving my Certified Auctioneer Institute professional designation from 
Indiana University in 1985. Prior to that, I attended Missouri Auction School 
and served an apprenticeship at Sothebys in New York. I became licensed in 
eight states. I was the Charter President of the Nevada State Auctioneers 
Association. My firms have sold, and I have gaveled down, over a billion 
dollars in real and personal property, even some meteorites at this auction 
last year. I have sold my auction interests to family members and have been of 
counsel to our firms and other companies for the past 15 years.

So the qualifying remarks having been made…here we go:

SOME (NOT ALL) AUCTION POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES

Auctioneers have a legal fiduciary obligation to Consignors. 

They should be knowledgeable of the items they sell and should be able to 
pronounce names and make accurate descriptions.

An auctioneer has to know the retail value of every lot and have examples to 
quote to the audience, so that he can open the bid at a sum that encourages 
bidders to bid on the money. Opening a $500 item at $20 is incompetence. 
Getting an opening bid that is off the money...say $100 on a $500 item and then 
asking for $120 instead of $200 is something you learn not to do the first day 
at auction school. 

It is critical that auctioneers make the audience believe they know what they 
are selling, and what it’s worth, so that bidders will have confidence to bid 
what is being asked. Failing to answer legitimate questions from bidders ruins 
credibility. 

Never say “I have $200”. Auctioneers don’t have anything. Better to say “at 
$200”, or $200 is bid.”

Taking a bid from an opening bidder, and then acquiring another bid and then 
not go immediately back to the opening bidder is insulting to him. Work the 
first to bidders dry…then take a competing bid. Saves time and respects the 
first bidders.

All auctioneers should employ trained ring persons. They are invaluable in 
encouraging bidders, showing lots, and answering questions like “where we at?” 
or “what’s the bid?”

It is not accepted practice for an auctioneer to bid on his own behalf, even if 
he does not own the goods being sold. If he does, he should never announce the 
fact, as it tends to discourage bidding and hurts his consignors and 
credibility. 

He should have several house numbers to sell a passed lot to, or a lot that 
didn’t meet an undisclosed reserve, or a lot he has bought. 

Do not disclose reserves. Do not announce the mail in bids. Give the mail 
bidder a number and use it as if in the audience. If you disclose the mail in 
bid maximum before selling the lot you are in deep kimchee.
Phone bids should be handled by staff, with a bidder number and the auctioneer 
should not say “on the phone”. Merely acknowledge staff’s raised hand.  You 
sell to a number…not a person.

As a general rule do not identify bidders by calling out their name. It can do 
no good and may stop a bid because of a personal issue.

Bid calling is an art form. One should develop a pleasing appearance and voice. 
Use rhythm chants on small amounts and walking chants on the big numbers. The 
audience gets comfortable in following you and entertained and the sale moves 
quickly.

Start on time and be prepared. Inform the audience of the order of sale and the 
terms and conditions before calling for the first lot.Introduce your staff and 
mention w

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES

[Count Deiro]

Goes without saying. That was sad.
Count Deiro


-Original Message-
>From: Michael Gilmer 
>Sent: Feb 6, 2011 2:06 PM
>To: Count Deiro 
>Cc: i...@imcamail.de, meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES
>
>Hi Count and List,
>
>So I guess this means that when selling artwork, one should remove it
>from the mailing tube during bidding?
>
>Best regards,
>
>MikeG
>
>
>On 2/6/11, Count Deiro  wrote:
>> Dear List,
>>
>> I realize that this post is going to be painful and embarrassing for some to
>> read, but more than a few attending and watching the auction last night were
>> confused and critical of how it was conducted. Today more than a couple of
>> Listers have asked on line for clarification of generally accepted auction
>> policies.
>> As I am uniquely qualified, not only as a participant in this auction, (I
>> was bidding over the phone while watching on Ruben’s streaming video) but a
>> professional auctioneer with over thirty five years of experience, I will
>> offer these criticisms and explanations.
>>
>> I owned and have operated some of the largest auction firms in the nation
>> since receiving my Certified Auctioneer Institute professional designation
>> from Indiana University in 1985. Prior to that, I attended Missouri Auction
>> School and served an apprenticeship at Sothebys in New York. I became
>> licensed in eight states. I was the Charter President of the Nevada State
>> Auctioneers Association. My firms have sold, and I have gaveled down, over a
>> billion dollars in real and personal property, even some meteorites at this
>> auction last year. I have sold my auction interests to family members and
>> have been of counsel to our firms and other companies for the past 15 years.
>>
>> So the qualifying remarks having been made…here we go:
>>
>> SOME (NOT ALL) AUCTION POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES
>>
>> Auctioneers have a legal fiduciary obligation to Consignors.
>>
>> They should be knowledgeable of the items they sell and should be able to
>> pronounce names and make accurate descriptions.
>>
>> An auctioneer has to know the retail value of every lot and have examples to
>> quote to the audience, so that he can open the bid at a sum that encourages
>> bidders to bid on the money. Opening a $500 item at $20 is incompetence.
>> Getting an opening bid that is off the money...say $100 on a $500 item and
>> then asking for $120 instead of $200 is something you learn not to do the
>> first day at auction school.
>>
>> It is critical that auctioneers make the audience believe they know what
>> they are selling, and what it’s worth, so that bidders will have confidence
>> to bid what is being asked. Failing to answer legitimate questions from
>> bidders ruins credibility.
>>
>> Never say “I have $200”. Auctioneers don’t have anything. Better to say “at
>> $200”, or $200 is bid.”
>>
>> Taking a bid from an opening bidder, and then acquiring another bid and then
>> not go immediately back to the opening bidder is insulting to him. Work the
>> first to bidders dry…then take a competing bid. Saves time and respects the
>> first bidders.
>>
>> All auctioneers should employ trained ring persons. They are invaluable in
>> encouraging bidders, showing lots, and answering questions like “where we
>> at?” or “what’s the bid?”
>>
>> It is not accepted practice for an auctioneer to bid on his own behalf, even
>> if he does not own the goods being sold. If he does, he should never
>> announce the fact, as it tends to discourage bidding and hurts his
>> consignors and credibility.
>>
>> He should have several house numbers to sell a passed lot to, or a lot that
>> didn’t meet an undisclosed reserve, or a lot he has bought.
>>
>> Do not disclose reserves. Do not announce the mail in bids. Give the mail
>> bidder a number and use it as if in the audience. If you disclose the mail
>> in bid maximum before selling the lot you are in deep kimchee.
>> Phone bids should be handled by staff, with a bidder number and the
>> auctioneer should not say “on the phone”. Merely acknowledge staff’s raised
>> hand.  You sell to a number…not a person.
>>
>> As a general rule do not identify bidders by calling out their name. It can
>> do no good and may stop a bid because of a personal issue.
>>
>> Bid calling is an art form. One should develop a pleasing appearance and
>> voice. Use rhythm chants on small amounts and walking chants on the big
>> numbers. The audi

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION POLICIES & TECHNIQUES

[Michael Gilmer]

Hi Count and List,

So I guess this means that when selling artwork, one should remove it
from the mailing tube during bidding?

Best regards,

MikeG


On 2/6/11, Count Deiro  wrote:
> Dear List,
>
> I realize that this post is going to be painful and embarrassing for some to
> read, but more than a few attending and watching the auction last night were
> confused and critical of how it was conducted. Today more than a couple of
> Listers have asked on line for clarification of generally accepted auction
> policies.
> As I am uniquely qualified, not only as a participant in this auction, (I
> was bidding over the phone while watching on Ruben’s streaming video) but a
> professional auctioneer with over thirty five years of experience, I will
> offer these criticisms and explanations.
>
> I owned and have operated some of the largest auction firms in the nation
> since receiving my Certified Auctioneer Institute professional designation
> from Indiana University in 1985. Prior to that, I attended Missouri Auction
> School and served an apprenticeship at Sothebys in New York. I became
> licensed in eight states. I was the Charter President of the Nevada State
> Auctioneers Association. My firms have sold, and I have gaveled down, over a
> billion dollars in real and personal property, even some meteorites at this
> auction last year. I have sold my auction interests to family members and
> have been of counsel to our firms and other companies for the past 15 years.
>
> So the qualifying remarks having been made…here we go:
>
> SOME (NOT ALL) AUCTION POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES
>
> Auctioneers have a legal fiduciary obligation to Consignors.
>
> They should be knowledgeable of the items they sell and should be able to
> pronounce names and make accurate descriptions.
>
> An auctioneer has to know the retail value of every lot and have examples to
> quote to the audience, so that he can open the bid at a sum that encourages
> bidders to bid on the money. Opening a $500 item at $20 is incompetence.
> Getting an opening bid that is off the money...say $100 on a $500 item and
> then asking for $120 instead of $200 is something you learn not to do the
> first day at auction school.
>
> It is critical that auctioneers make the audience believe they know what
> they are selling, and what it’s worth, so that bidders will have confidence
> to bid what is being asked. Failing to answer legitimate questions from
> bidders ruins credibility.
>
> Never say “I have $200”. Auctioneers don’t have anything. Better to say “at
> $200”, or $200 is bid.”
>
> Taking a bid from an opening bidder, and then acquiring another bid and then
> not go immediately back to the opening bidder is insulting to him. Work the
> first to bidders dry…then take a competing bid. Saves time and respects the
> first bidders.
>
> All auctioneers should employ trained ring persons. They are invaluable in
> encouraging bidders, showing lots, and answering questions like “where we
> at?” or “what’s the bid?”
>
> It is not accepted practice for an auctioneer to bid on his own behalf, even
> if he does not own the goods being sold. If he does, he should never
> announce the fact, as it tends to discourage bidding and hurts his
> consignors and credibility.
>
> He should have several house numbers to sell a passed lot to, or a lot that
> didn’t meet an undisclosed reserve, or a lot he has bought.
>
> Do not disclose reserves. Do not announce the mail in bids. Give the mail
> bidder a number and use it as if in the audience. If you disclose the mail
> in bid maximum before selling the lot you are in deep kimchee.
> Phone bids should be handled by staff, with a bidder number and the
> auctioneer should not say “on the phone”. Merely acknowledge staff’s raised
> hand.  You sell to a number…not a person.
>
> As a general rule do not identify bidders by calling out their name. It can
> do no good and may stop a bid because of a personal issue.
>
> Bid calling is an art form. One should develop a pleasing appearance and
> voice. Use rhythm chants on small amounts and walking chants on the big
> numbers. The audience gets comfortable in following you and entertained and
> the sale moves quickly.
>
> Start on time and be prepared. Inform the audience of the order of sale and
> the terms and conditions before calling for the first lot.Introduce your
> staff and mention who to see for check out and pick up.
>
> Arrange lots to develop and keep interest and drama. Don’t bunch smalls one
> after the other…bidders will get bored and not bid on these items hurting
> the consignor. Scatter smalls through the sale.
>
> Don’t place late entries at the end of a sale. Give them the respect they
> deserve and place them through the sale by saying “additional lot number so
> and so”. Give a proper description. If you add undisclosed lots at the end
> of a sale you will have lost the bulk of the bidders and hurt the consignor.
> Tell the audience that there are late entries scattered

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Policies

[Brian Cox]

I agree with Tracy and Michael regarding announcing the absentee bids during 
the auction, that absentee bids should NEVER be announced. Falling Fusion 
asked it as a neutral question for anyone to answer pro or con, but those 
watching through the live stream and those in the room have all mentioned 
they didn't think it was right to announce those amounts.
I was watching via the online feed and everyone was able to post comments 
real time in the chat area to the right of the streaming video. There were a 
LOT of "Unhappy People" who had put in absentee bids and were upset that 
they were announced before the auction commenced.


I've bid through several live online Auction Houses such as Heritage Auction 
House and if they ever gave out the absentee bids or any Houses such as 
Christie's or Sotheby's ever gave out absentee bid amounts and announced 
those before an auction, they'd all be bankrupt with lawsuits.


Let's make sure next year that those "PRIVATE" absentee bid amounts, are 
indeed kept "PRIVATE!"


Have a great day!

Brian Cox

IMCA # 6387 


__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Policies

[michael cottingham]

Hello,

If I had been an absentee bidder, I would of been VERY angry as to how it went 
down. It is extremely unfair to absentee bidders to announce ..."ok folks hear 
is the highest absentee bid, let's move pass it and get on with the auction for 
all those who are here."

Best Wishes

Michael Cottingham
On Feb 6, 2011, at 10:10 AM, tracy latimer wrote:

> 
> I would hope not.  Floor bidders don't announce how high they are willing to 
> go unless they make a bid for that amount and just don't increase it.  
> Telling all the bidders present how much absentee bidders are willing to pay 
> gives those in attendance an unfair advantage, as they can decide whether or 
> not to up their bid.  Absentee bidders can't, unless they have arranged to 
> follow the action and can bid remotely, and I don't think real-time absentee 
> bids are a feature yet of our meteorite auction.
> 
> Wish I could have been there!
> 
> Best!
> Tracy Latimer
> 
> 
>> To: meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>> From: fallingfus...@wi.rr.com
>> Date: Sun, 6 Feb 2011 16:56:40 +
>> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Policies
>> 
>> Good morning everyone. I am wondering what auction policies are for absentee 
>> bids placed in a live auction. Is the highest maximum absentee bid normally 
>> announced to the floor bidder(s) that is/are actively bidding on that 
>> particular lot? I would find such a practice to be of advantage to the 
>> bidders in attendance, especially when the amount is announced just moments 
>> before the hammer is being raised for last call.
>> 
>> Ryan
>> Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
>> __
>> Visit the Archives at 
>> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
>> Meteorite-list mailing list
>> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 
> __
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Policies

[tracy latimer]

I would hope not.  Floor bidders don't announce how high they are willing to go 
unless they make a bid for that amount and just don't increase it.  Telling all 
the bidders present how much absentee bidders are willing to pay gives those in 
attendance an unfair advantage, as they can decide whether or not to up their 
bid.  Absentee bidders can't, unless they have arranged to follow the action 
and can bid remotely, and I don't think real-time absentee bids are a feature 
yet of our meteorite auction.

Wish I could have been there!

Best!
Tracy Latimer


> To: meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> From: fallingfus...@wi.rr.com
> Date: Sun, 6 Feb 2011 16:56:40 +
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Policies
>
> Good morning everyone. I am wondering what auction policies are for absentee 
> bids placed in a live auction. Is the highest maximum absentee bid normally 
> announced to the floor bidder(s) that is/are actively bidding on that 
> particular lot? I would find such a practice to be of advantage to the 
> bidders in attendance, especially when the amount is announced just moments 
> before the hammer is being raised for last call.
>
> Ryan
> Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
> __
> Visit the Archives at 
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
  
__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction UPDATE (ad)

[Michael Blood]

Greetings all,
Most unfortunately, the ever engaging Anita Westlake of Georgia will
not be able to attend the Tucson Show this year, so we lost her as a
presenter at the pre-auction activities - as well as the pleasure of her
Company throughout the show(:
HOWEVER: John Blennert has agreed to give the talk at 6PM at the
Auction. John is the accepted "King of Gold Basin." His accomplishments in
that strewn field include but are not limited to:
- Coordinated with Dr. Jim Kriegh in mapping the strewn field, recording the
location of every find
- Has donated hundreds of his GB finds to institutions
- Is an accomplished gold finder
- The guy is a magician! I swear I hunted 15 yards to his right and
meteorites nearly jumped out of the ground into his pockets! In 20 minutes
he had more than he could carry!
- Has proven himself to be someone EVERYONE likes.
IF GOLD BASIN INTERESTS, YOU THIS IS A MUST LECTURE.

Other notes:
- There are still spaces for 10 or more items if you have anything special.
- Darryl Pitt will be entering 2 more special items (today or tomorrow?)
And Twink will be entering several more pieces of meteorite jewelry.
- Of the 81 items entered to date, only ONE has a minimum bid - and it is
The entirely unique, Lovina (ANOM Iron). ALL OTHER ITEMS ARE NO MINIMUM.
- Only a few more days remain to get in Absentee bids. Only a handful have
come in to date.   
RSVP (off list, of course)
Thanks,
Michael   


__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Results

[Michael Blood]

Hi All,
The auction results are up and can be seen through Feb. at:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonMetAuctionPRINT.html

Best wishes, Michael


__
Visit the Archives at http://www.meteoritecentral.com/mailing-list-archives.html
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction

[Michael Blood]

Hi Meteorite folks,
For those that missed it - results of the
Auction can be seen a few more days at:

 http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson09.html

For sellers: Everyone has long since been PayPaled
(for those that preferred that form of payment) or mailed
A check. If you have not received a check, please let me know,
As these all went out by Feb 8 & 9.
The following have yet to provide me with an address:
Chicago Steve
Eric Olson
Bob Verish's check is here, as per his request. If you want,
I will be happy to drop it in a mailbox for you, Bob.
Thanks to everyone that made the 10th annual Tucson
Meteorite Auction a success.
Best wishes, Michael


__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Results now posted

[Michael Blood]

Hi all,
Given that in the past people have enthusiastically
Requested auction results be posted, they are now up
(at:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionTucson09.html

   Again, auctions are NOT an indication of "Market Value."
They indicate the interests of the few people there AND the
Limits of their pocket books (which are stretched to breaking
At the Tucson Show) I passed on over 20 % of the offerings
I wanted, primarily because regardless of the "deal" I could not,
at that time, afford them. (I also do not like bidding "against"
Participants except when outright theft is attempted (when
People refuse to open the bidding WAY below value).
Anyway, results are now "up" for whatever reason people
Are driven to kick themselves for. Also, please note that the
Last minute crash of my computer system resulted in a total
Loss of absentee bids. A couple people phoned me at the last
Minute, but they were out bid in the action.
My nomination for the  best price brought was the late
Numbered thin Imilac slice. It was as close to perfect as one
Could get and sold for over $18/g. Given its perfection, it might
Also have been one of the best buys. The carbonado diamonds
Were also VERY  good deals, but the one people really missed
On was likely the NWA2737 (Chassignite) at a minimum of only
$1,500/g for a one gram slice. VERY nice and a steal compared
To the $50K/g for Chassigny. A couple people snapped up a couple
Of Jerry Armstrong Prints at below cost, as well. I was shocked
To see the quality of his reproductions compared to the computer
Image on my web page of his work - and I am told his talk was
Both fun and very informative.
Best wishes, Michael


__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Results? - any word

[Roman]

Hi all.

Since this is very related to meteorites, why not list the results on the 
meteorite list?
After all, the info will probably not be available in the near future on 
their site.

I know, this topic was talked about the last few auctions.

Cheers,
Roman Jirasek


- Original Message - 
From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 


Sent: Wednesday, June 11, 2008 9:22 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Results? - any word



In a message dated 6/11/2008 7:41:49 P.M. Central Daylight Time,
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
What you need to do is go to the Heritage web  site, register, then you 
can

gain access to the results.

T.  Bunch

Thanks.

Interesting results.

I would assume that if a lot is not listed in  the "Auctions Results
Archives" it would mean that particular lot did not reach  the reserve 
price, and did

not sale, although I didn't read that explanation  anywhere on the site.

Seems like prices pretty much hit the expected  prices, a few up above
estimates, a few below.

Steve Arnold #1




**Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best
2008.  (http://citysbest.aol.com?ncid=aolacg0005000102)
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list




E-mail message checked by Spyware Doctor (5.5.1.322)
Database version: 5.1
http://www.pctools.com/en/spyware-doctor/ 






E-mail message checked by Spyware Doctor (5.5.1.322)
Database version: 5.10020e
http://www.pctools.com/en/spyware-doctor/
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Results? - any word

[MeteorHntr]

In a message dated 6/11/2008 7:41:49 P.M. Central Daylight Time,  
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
What you need to do is go to the Heritage web  site, register, then you can
gain access to the results.

T.  Bunch

Thanks.  
 
Interesting results.

I would assume that if a lot is not listed in  the "Auctions Results 
Archives" it would mean that particular lot did not reach  the reserve price, 
and did 
not sale, although I didn't read that explanation  anywhere on the site.

Seems like prices pretty much hit the expected  prices, a few up above 
estimates, a few below.

Steve Arnold #1
 



**Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best 
2008.  (http://citysbest.aol.com?ncid=aolacg0005000102)
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Results? - any word

[Ted Bunch]

What you need to do is go to the Heritage web site, register, then you can
gain access to the results.

T. Bunch


On 6/11/08 4:09 PM, "Timothy Heitz" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:

> 
> Hi List,
> 
> Any word on the results of the Auction yet?
> 
> Tim Heitz
> 
> NEW WEB SITE
> Midwest Meteorites - http://www.meteorman.org/
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> -Original Message-
> From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Sent: Tuesday, June 10, 2008 1:50 AM
> To: meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> Subject: [meteorite-list] Auction Results?
> 
> Hey Guys,
> 
> Anyone with the results of the  Auction this last weekend?
> 
> All I saw in the news was that Michigan  sold for $20,000, and the 3/4 ton
> Nantan went for $90,000.
> 
> Steve Arnold  #1 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> **Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best
> 2008.  (http://citysbest.aol.com?ncid=aolacg0005000102)
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list


__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[Dave Gheesling]

All,
I had a similar experience to Patrick's.  Very well handled from front to
finish...
Dave
www.fallingrocks.com

-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Monday, April 07, 2008 1:42 PM
To: meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

I have bid on a number of items at the last Bonham auction, and everything 
went extremely well. I won 2 items with the opening bid, way below the 
maximum that I had bid online, and I won one other item while on the phone 
with them, bidding live.
Shipping was handled via a shipping agent that Bonham had recommended. 
Within a day of the auction they picked my items up at the Bonham office, 
packed it up and shipped it with FedEx overnight. It cost a few hundred 
bucks, but for all that it seemed reasonable.
That was my experience anyways.
I am looking forward to the coming auction - looks like they have some good 
stuff lined up again.
All the best...,...
--
Patrick
www.pallasite.ca

-- Original Message ---
From: mckinney trammell <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, Meteorite Mailing List

Sent: Mon, 7 Apr 2008 07:11:53 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

> avoid like plague!  i did on of those absentee bids
> and they shilled me right up to the penny. further
> more, the shipping was EXTREME price AND... when i got
> the items (shark teeth) they were SHORT!!! theyb LIED
> about the length!!! i f you can't be there, you are
> setting yourself up for dissaster
> !!!
> --- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> >  Hello List,
> > 
> >  Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
> > offered?
> > 
> > 
> >  Tim Heitz
> >  Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> >  Go to Google News
> >  Rare meteorite goes under hammer
> >  10 hours ago
> > 
> >  A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
> > auction in New York this 
> > month.
> > 
> >  Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
> > discovered eight years ago in
> >  China's Xinjiang Uygar province.
> > 
> >  Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
> > impact forces as it
> >  crashed down to Earth.
> > 
> >  Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
> > Lindgren said: "Less
> >  than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
> > alluring of all
> >  meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."
> > 
> >  Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
> > olivine and peridot crystals
> >  and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
> > forming planets.
> > 
> > The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
> > Bonhams on April 30 in New
> >  York.
> > 
> > __
> > http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> > Meteorite-list mailing list
> > Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> >
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> >
> 
>   

_
___
> You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of 
> Blockbuster Total Access, No Cost.  
http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
--- End of Original Message ---

__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[psh]

I have bid on a number of items at the last Bonham auction, and everything 
went extremely well. I won 2 items with the opening bid, way below the 
maximum that I had bid online, and I won one other item while on the phone 
with them, bidding live.
Shipping was handled via a shipping agent that Bonham had recommended. 
Within a day of the auction they picked my items up at the Bonham office, 
packed it up and shipped it with FedEx overnight. It cost a few hundred 
bucks, but for all that it seemed reasonable.
That was my experience anyways.
I am looking forward to the coming auction - looks like they have some good 
stuff lined up again.
All the best...,...
--
Patrick
www.pallasite.ca

-- Original Message ---
From: mckinney trammell <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, Meteorite Mailing List 
Sent: Mon, 7 Apr 2008 07:11:53 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

> avoid like plague!  i did on of those absentee bids
> and they shilled me right up to the penny. further
> more, the shipping was EXTREME price AND... when i got
> the items (shark teeth) they were SHORT!!! theyb LIED
> about the length!!! i f you can't be there, you are
> setting yourself up for dissaster
> !!!
> --- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> >  Hello List,
> > 
> >  Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
> > offered?
> > 
> > 
> >  Tim Heitz
> >  Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> >  Go to Google News
> >  Rare meteorite goes under hammer
> >  10 hours ago
> > 
> >  A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
> > auction in New York this 
> > month.
> > 
> >  Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
> > discovered eight years ago in
> >  China's Xinjiang Uygar province.
> > 
> >  Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
> > impact forces as it
> >  crashed down to Earth.
> > 
> >  Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
> > Lindgren said: "Less
> >  than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
> > alluring of all
> >  meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."
> > 
> >  Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
> > olivine and peridot crystals
> >  and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
> > forming planets.
> > 
> > The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
> > Bonhams on April 30 in New
> >  York.
> > 
> > __
> > http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> > Meteorite-list mailing list
> > Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> >
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> >
> 
>   
_
___
> You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of 
> Blockbuster Total Access, No Cost.  
http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
--- End of Original Message ---

__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[Mike Jensen]

Hi all
I just emailed them about two photos that were incorrect (Ness County
and Barwell). Both have been taken down. Hopefully they will put up
the correct pictures soon.
I also wish they would just use the correct & approved names for the meteorites.

Mike

Mike Jensen
Jensen Meteorites
16730 E Ada PL
Aurora, CO 80017-3137
303-337-4361
IMCA 4264
website: www.jensenmeteorites.com


On Mon, Apr 7, 2008 at 8:45 AM, Darryl Pitt <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
>
>  yikes.
>
>  while i appreciate your frustration, a few tips:
>
>  ---if at all possible, you do want to rely on shipping organized by an
> auction house. this is typically subcontracted to bonded art shippers (i.e.,
> expensive shippers) or the buyer is provided a list of such bonded shippers
> from which to choose.
>
>  ---if the value of a purchased lot is predicated and the length of the
> specimen (e.g., shark's tooth),  and the measurement is significantly off
> (and i assure you it's not bonhams which has made the error but a
> misrepresentation on the part of the consignor), you have every right to
> return the specimen as being falsely represented.  in some instances, you
> may even be able to negotiate a better deal.
>
>  --finally, (and sometimes i have trouble remembering this one) only bid an
> amount at which you will be delighted if your bid is successful---even if
> your success was achieved by your paying the full amount of your absentee
> bid.
>
>  all best to my friends in meteorites
>
>  dp
>
>
>
>
>
>  On Apr 7, 2008, at 10:11 AM, mckinney trammell wrote:
>
>
> > avoid like plague!  i did on of those absentee bids
> > and they shilled me right up to the penny. further
> > more, the shipping was EXTREME price AND... when i got
> > the items (shark teeth) they were SHORT!!! theyb LIED
> > about the length!!! i f you can't be there, you are
> > setting yourself up for dissaster
> > !!!
> > --- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> >
> >
> >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >  Hello List,
> > >
> > >  Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
> > > offered?
> > >
> > >
> > >  Tim Heitz
> > >  Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >  Go to Google News
> > >  Rare meteorite goes under hammer
> > >  10 hours ago
> > >
> > >  A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
> > > auction in New York this
> > > month.
> > >
> > >  Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
> > > discovered eight years ago in
> > >  China's Xinjiang Uygar province.
> > >
> > >  Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
> > > impact forces as it
> > >  crashed down to Earth.
> > >
> > >  Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
> > > Lindgren said: "Less
> > >  than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
> > > alluring of all
> > >  meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."
> > >
> > >  Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
> > > olivine and peridot crystals
> > >  and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
> > > forming planets.
> > >
> > > The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
> > > Bonhams on April 30 in New
> > >  York.
> > >
> > > __
> > > http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> > > Meteorite-list mailing list
> > > Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> >
> >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> 
> > You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster
> Total Access, No Cost.
> > http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com
> > __
> > http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> > Meteorite-list mailing list
> > Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> > http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> >
> >
>
>  __
>  http://www.meteoritecentral.com
>  Meteorite-list mailing list
>  Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>  http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[Darryl Pitt]

yikes.

while i appreciate your frustration, a few tips:

---if at all possible, you do want to rely on shipping organized by  
an auction house. this is typically subcontracted to bonded art  
shippers (i.e., expensive shippers) or the buyer is provided a list  
of such bonded shippers from which to choose.


---if the value of a purchased lot is predicated and the length of  
the specimen (e.g., shark's tooth),  and the measurement is  
significantly off (and i assure you it's not bonhams which has made  
the error but a misrepresentation on the part of the consignor), you  
have every right to return the specimen as being falsely  
represented.  in some instances, you may even be able to negotiate a  
better deal.


--finally, (and sometimes i have trouble remembering this one) only  
bid an amount at which you will be delighted if your bid is  
successful---even if your success was achieved by your paying the  
full amount of your absentee bid.


all best to my friends in meteorites

dp



On Apr 7, 2008, at 10:11 AM, mckinney trammell wrote:


avoid like plague!  i did on of those absentee bids
and they shilled me right up to the penny. further
more, the shipping was EXTREME price AND... when i got
the items (shark teeth) they were SHORT!!! theyb LIED
about the length!!! i f you can't be there, you are
setting yourself up for dissaster
!!!
--- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:






 Hello List,

 Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
offered?


 Tim Heitz
 Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/









 Go to Google News
 Rare meteorite goes under hammer
 10 hours ago

 A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
auction in New York this
month.

 Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
discovered eight years ago in
 China's Xinjiang Uygar province.

 Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
impact forces as it
 crashed down to Earth.

 Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
Lindgren said: "Less
 than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
alluring of all
 meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."

 Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
olivine and peridot crystals
 and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
forming planets.

The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
Bonhams on April 30 in New
 York.

__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com



http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list








   
__ 
__
You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of  
Blockbuster Total Access, No Cost.

http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list



__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[Mark Grossman]

I've bid on several items - autograph letters of scientists - in auctions
overseas (the Netherlands and Australia), and it's similar to the rules to
follow with meteorite or any other dealers - know who you are dealing with
and ask plenty of questions.  In one Australian auction, I heard of the
problem with expensive shipping costs - that appears to be how many auction
houses make part of their money - they subcontract the shipping to an
expensive shipper - I obtained an estimate of the shipping costs before
bidding, and the final cost for shipping agreed with the quote.  In another
auction in the Netherlands, I submitted an absentee bid, and won
significantly below my maximum bid.

I know Bonhams is a well-known acution house, although I have never bid with
them, but just because they are well known, doesn't mean that everything
will go smoothly.

Best thing, as Timothy mentions, is to inspect the merchandise before the
bidding if at all possible and get a quote for the shipping.  If you can't
attend, don't bid too much and ask plenty of questions and for photos.  If
you don't get satisfactory answwers, don't bid.  The good acution houses
will accomodate your questions.

If I did not take the chance to bid on many of the overseas items sight
unseen, I wouldn't have some great items in my collection.  So, you have to
way the costs and benefits.

Just my two cents.

Mark Grossman



- Original Message - 
From: "mckinney trammell" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Timothy Heitz" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; "Meteorite Mailing List"

Sent: Monday, April 07, 2008 10:11 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.


avoid like plague!  i did on of those absentee bids
and they shilled me right up to the penny. further
more, the shipping was EXTREME price AND... when i got
the items (shark teeth) they were SHORT!!! theyb LIED
about the length!!! i f you can't be there, you are
setting yourself up for dissaster
!!!
--- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:

>
>
>
>  Hello List,
>
>  Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
> offered?
>
>
>  Tim Heitz
>  Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>  Go to Google News
>  Rare meteorite goes under hammer
>  10 hours ago
>
>  A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
> auction in New York this
> month.
>
>  Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
> discovered eight years ago in
>  China's Xinjiang Uygar province.
>
>  Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
> impact forces as it
>  crashed down to Earth.
>
>  Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
> Lindgren said: "Less
>  than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
> alluring of all
>  meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."
>
>  Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
> olivine and peridot crystals
>  and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
> forming planets.
>
> The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
> Bonhams on April 30 in New
>  York.
>
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>






You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster
Total Access, No Cost.
http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[mckinney trammell]

avoid like plague!  i did on of those absentee bids
and they shilled me right up to the penny. further
more, the shipping was EXTREME price AND... when i got
the items (shark teeth) they were SHORT!!! theyb LIED
about the length!!! i f you can't be there, you are
setting yourself up for dissaster
!!!
--- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:

> 
> 
> 
>  Hello List,
> 
>  Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
> offered?
> 
> 
>  Tim Heitz
>  Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  Go to Google News
>  Rare meteorite goes under hammer
>  10 hours ago
> 
>  A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
> auction in New York this 
> month.
> 
>  Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
> discovered eight years ago in
>  China's Xinjiang Uygar province.
> 
>  Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
> impact forces as it
>  crashed down to Earth.
> 
>  Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
> Lindgren said: "Less
>  than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
> alluring of all
>  meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."
> 
>  Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
> olivine and peridot crystals
>  and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
> forming planets.
> 
> The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
> Bonhams on April 30 in New
>  York.
> 
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 



  

You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster Total 
Access, No Cost.  
http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com
__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction at Bonhams on April 30 in New York.

[Don Rawlings]

This may be just a wild guess, but maybe Bonhams has
the auction listed on their website since it is less
than a month away.

--- Timothy Heitz <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:

> 
> 
> 
>  Hello List,
> 
>  Does anyone know if any other meteorites are being
> offered?
> 
> 
>  Tim Heitz
>  Midwest Meteorite - http://www.meteorman.org/
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  Go to Google News
>  Rare meteorite goes under hammer
>  10 hours ago
> 
>  A meteorite is expected to fetch £500,000 at
> auction in New York this 
> month.
> 
>  Weighing more than 925lbs, the object was
> discovered eight years ago in
>  China's Xinjiang Uygar province.
> 
>  Its rare olivine crystals endured atmospheric and
> impact forces as it
>  crashed down to Earth.
> 
>  Bonhams' Natural History Department director Thomas
> Lindgren said: "Less
>  than 1% of all meteorites are pallasites, the most
> alluring of all
>  meteorites due to their aesthetic appeal."
> 
>  Pallasites - meteorites composed of around 50%
> olivine and peridot crystals
>  and 50% nickel-iron - are thought to be relics of
> forming planets.
> 
> The Fukang meteorite will go under the hammer at
> Bonhams on April 30 in New
>  York.
> 
> __
> http://www.meteoritecentral.com
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 


Don Rawlings


  

You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster Total 
Access, No Cost.  
http://tc.deals.yahoo.com/tc/blockbuster/text5.com

__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Catalog all up (AD)

[Michael L Blood]

OK,
I now have 93 items up, with photos and a Print Catalog as
Well.
Other than Steve's Brenham slice, this looks to be it until I
Get to Tucson - and no entries then will make the catalog.
Only 6 of the 93 items have ANY minimum.
Getting there is easy, just take Speedway and go a couple
blocks past Beverly (where the auction was the last 3 years) and
Turn Right on Craycroft - then go to 1884 So. Craycroft and park.
Only two people have sent in absentee bids, so, if you won't
Be there, now is the time to put your bids in.
Have a look at the catalog and drool, drool, drool (I am).

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonAuction08.html

Best wishes, Michael


__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Update (AD)

[Michael L Blood]

The long awaited Adam Hupe surprise ( Lot 8 AH 8) is now up.Stinkin'
spectacular!
Also, Mike Farmer is placing some exceptional additions which
are going up even now - I expect to have them all up by later in
the day. In addition, Steve Arnold is submitting
what he describes as a spectacular full slice of a choice
Brenham he has discovered (uncovered) in his field work and expects
To have a photo to me be Sunday evening. I am leaving next week, so,
Anyone else interested in absentee bidding should submit their bids
By Sunday night - Monday at the very latest.
The "For Print" catalog has been streamlined, but people are
encouraged to print Tuesday or, if they leave before that, right before
they leave, as I will be putting stuff up through Monday.
For a slow start, some spectacular lots are being offered with
Price ranges from 2 to 5 digits. Really some spectacular stuff - and
The vast majority of it starts with no minimum.
Check it out - and later today at:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonAuction08.html

Best wishes, Michael





__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Update (AD & Info)

[Michael L Blood]

Hi all List members,
If you go to

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonAuction08.html

You will see I now have all the entries up to date. However,
That is only 48 lots and the auction will be over quite  quickly
If no one else enters items soon.
To that end - I am offering a 5 day, original 10% commission
To any entries of value with no minimum. If you get your goodies
Listed and jpgs to me by Sunday, you will get the same 10% rate
As those that got in early. After that, the increases stand. I know
I can rustle up some entries at the Show that will be quite worth
While.
Also, Moni Waiblinger had something come up that will prevent
Her from attending, but  Floyd Griffith has stepped up to do checkout
During the auction, so, if anyone wants to bid on a specific item, then
Leave, they can do so. Griff will also be helping me check out people
After the auction, so  that will go twice as fast as in the past.
I still need 2 more "volunteers" to help out to make things go
Smoothly. I pay a paltry $100. So, I know it is volunteer work, but at
Least you get a little to buy with - and helpers are entirely welcome
To bid. All the remaining "positions" are easy as pie, but I do need people
I can count on. 
Please contact me off list for a "position" or to enter pieces for
the auction.
Thanks, Michael




__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction program (AD)

[Michael L Blood]

Thanks to those of you who
Pointed out problems with my initial program post. Auction program
is now progressed. I will be adding about 10 other items later tonight, if I
have the energy, and will soon make the "Print" version available(Right now
I think it takes you to the 2007 auction). I believe only the correct
address is now shown.
You can check it out at:

http://michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonAuction08.html

Thanks, Michael




__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction ad

[Floyd "Griff" Griffith]

Michael,

Nice job on the auction website. That's a bunch of work.

Best to you,
Griff

Parker, Colorado


- Original Message - 
From: "Michael L Blood" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>

To: "Meteorite List" 
Sent: Saturday, January 12, 2008 9:40 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction ad



Hi All,
   Bad new is my Dreamweaver program suddenly went BLANK and I cannot
Upload ANYTHING at this time - and who knows when.
   The good news is the first part of the Auction Catalog is (with 
much

More stuff already in. but not posted) "up" in a very incomplete way - but
At least you can see SOME of the goodies.
   Go to:

http://www.michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonAuction08.html

   Best wishes, Michael





__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list 


__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction ad

[Michael L Blood]

Hi All,
Bad new is my Dreamweaver program suddenly went BLANK and I cannot
Upload ANYTHING at this time - and who knows when.
The good news is the first part of the Auction Catalog is (with much
More stuff already in. but not posted) "up" in a very incomplete way - but
At least you can see SOME of the goodies.
Go to:

http://www.michaelbloodmeteorites.com/TucsonAuction08.html

Best wishes, Michael





__
http://www.meteoritecentral.com
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction update

[Michael L Blood]

1) I am pleased to announce that Moni Waiblinger-Seabridge  will be
checking people out early at my auction starting 2008. Those of you
who are privileged to know Moni know she is a person of high character.
She will also assist at the end to make final payments go twice as fast.

2) I have heard from numerous collectors regarding posting auction
prices. However, I have never questioned whether collectors were
interested in seeing price results. on the other hand, I have heard
from only 3 dealers on the matter. If I do not hear from at least 10
dealers one way or the other, my policywill remain unchanged for
the following reasons:

A) I have, in the past, heard from dealers at the show that they
felt the auction prices were being irrationally used by collectors as a
reason not to buy from them.
B) Most buyers are dealers who wish to resell the items purchased.
What they paid is their own business

However, Tucson is becoming more of the "Wholesale" show it used
to be, in spite of clearly rising prices for nearly every category of
meteorite and my auction has become nearly exclusively a wholesale
auction. Therefore, I am open to hearing from dealers their attitude
about posted sale prices. So, bring it on, boys. I need input to make
a well considered decision.

Best wishes to all, and thanks again to Moni (I was only teasing
Jim Strope yesterday, for those of you who didn't get it).
Michael
  








__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS -MR. Blood and MR Lang

[Jim Strope]

I did NOT volunteer to offer my services for $100- to be your check out 
person but I am sure you can find some intelligent college student at the U 
of A that would be happy to do the service for a Hundred Bucks and free 
beer.  (Beer to be consumed after the auction, of course).


Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com


- Original Message - 
From: "Michael L Blood" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; "Meteorite List" 

Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:45 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


> Hi All,
>Just got back from the big one.
>Haven't come close to reading all my 473 emails, but I am more
> convinced than ever that the lack of an additional check out person
> at my auction is, indeed, a situation in need of correcting. My plan
> for this year fell through at the last minute but I am now more
> determined than ever to correct this problem once and for all.
>Imagine my delight in hearing Jim Strope is willing to
> perform that duty for only $100! Yippie! You're hired, Jim!
> Please, everyone, let Jim know how grateful you are for being
> willing to take care of this for us all. It will make the final buy
> outs go twice as quickly, as well.
>I also read that people are increasingly wanting auction prices
> listed and even show dealers are chiming in in favor of this (at least
> in one instance - haven't been able to read all posts, as mentioned -
> and I do see that as another appropriate list topic) and I am, therefore,
> reconsidering this, as my major issue in the past has been regarding
> the feelings of the show dealers on this issue. I will make a decision
> in the next day or two and, if in favor of posting prices, will do so
> via the on-line catalog. I am currently leaning in favor of doing so,
> but if I do, the list will remain posted for like 30 days, not all year.
> I would like to hear PRIVATELY from any and all dealers on this
> issue in the next 24 hrs. Please contact me directly via email with
> "POSTING AUCTION PRICES" in the subject box so that I read
> your opinion immediately. While I am not stating I will automatically
> go with the majority opinion on this, it will be the major determining
> factor in making up my mind on this particular issue - and there is
> no need for this particular topic to be bantered about on the list.
>
>As for all other details (timing of sellers being paid, buyers'
> credit card processing, absentee bidders being notified, etc) will be
> handled one on one,  as per announcements prior to the auction - not
> via the Meteorite List newsletter where these are not appropriate
> topics.
>Best wishes to all, Michael
> (PS: My name is not "Blood," it is Michael Blood. If you do not choose
> to use my first name it is then appropriate to place "Mr." in front of
> my family name. We are not raw recruits in the military nor High
> School jerks - though some times I wonder about the latter)
>
>
>
>
>
> on 2/8/07 8:41 AM, Jim Strope at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
>
>> Obviously, a lack of staff results in less than optimum customer service.
>> Perhaps spending an extra $100- to hire someone to check out bidders who
>> want to leave would have a positive impact on the auction results as a
>> whole.  I personally know of at least two collectors who refused to 
>> attend
>> an auction because of lack of customer service.  I also personally know 
>> of
>> one collector who left without paying because he got tired of waiting.
>>
>> Hopefully, next year will be a more pleasant experience.
>>
>> Jim Strope
>> 421 Fourth Street
>> Glen Dale, WV  26038
>>
>> http://www.catchafallingstar.com
>>
>>
>> - Original Message -
>> From: "Moni Waiblinger-Seabridge" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 
>> Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 11:31 AM
>> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>>
>>
>>> Hi Jim and All,
>>>
>>> I also go to an auction and it is the same as you describe.
>>> I think if you have to wait until all the auction is done, it is simply
>>> because there isn't enough staff.
>>> At the auction I attend, there is two auctioneers that take turns and 
>>> then
>>> about three people helping with showing, putting the items on the back
>>> table and as you wrote, getting the items and handing them to the winner
>>

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Michael L Blood]

Hi All,
Just got back from the big one.
Haven't come close to reading all my 473 emails, but I am more
convinced than ever that the lack of an additional check out person
at my auction is, indeed, a situation in need of correcting. My plan
for this year fell through at the last minute but I am now more
determined than ever to correct this problem once and for all.
Imagine my delight in hearing Jim Strope is willing to
perform that duty for only $100! Yippie! You're hired, Jim!
Please, everyone, let Jim know how grateful you are for being
willing to take care of this for us all. It will make the final buy
outs go twice as quickly, as well.
I also read that people are increasingly wanting auction prices
listed and even show dealers are chiming in in favor of this (at least
in one instance - haven't been able to read all posts, as mentioned -
and I do see that as another appropriate list topic) and I am, therefore,
reconsidering this, as my major issue in the past has been regarding
the feelings of the show dealers on this issue. I will make a decision
in the next day or two and, if in favor of posting prices, will do so
via the on-line catalog. I am currently leaning in favor of doing so,
but if I do, the list will remain posted for like 30 days, not all year.
I would like to hear PRIVATELY from any and all dealers on this
issue in the next 24 hrs. Please contact me directly via email with
"POSTING AUCTION PRICES" in the subject box so that I read
your opinion immediately. While I am not stating I will automatically
go with the majority opinion on this, it will be the major determining
factor in making up my mind on this particular issue - and there is
no need for this particular topic to be bantered about on the list.

As for all other details (timing of sellers being paid, buyers'
credit card processing, absentee bidders being notified, etc) will be
handled one on one,  as per announcements prior to the auction - not
via the Meteorite List newsletter where these are not appropriate
topics.  
Best wishes to all, Michael
(PS: My name is not "Blood," it is Michael Blood. If you do not choose
to use my first name it is then appropriate to place "Mr." in front of
my family name. We are not raw recruits in the military nor High
School jerks - though some times I wonder about the latter)





on 2/8/07 8:41 AM, Jim Strope at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

> Obviously, a lack of staff results in less than optimum customer service.
> Perhaps spending an extra $100- to hire someone to check out bidders who
> want to leave would have a positive impact on the auction results as a
> whole.  I personally know of at least two collectors who refused to attend
> an auction because of lack of customer service.  I also personally know of
> one collector who left without paying because he got tired of waiting.
> 
> Hopefully, next year will be a more pleasant experience.
> 
> Jim Strope
> 421 Fourth Street
> Glen Dale, WV  26038
> 
> http://www.catchafallingstar.com
> 
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: "Moni Waiblinger-Seabridge" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 
> Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 11:31 AM
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
> 
> 
>> Hi Jim and All,
>> 
>> I also go to an auction and it is the same as you describe.
>> I think if you have to wait until all the auction is done, it is simply
>> because there isn't enough staff.
>> At the auction I attend, there is two auctioneers that take turns and then
>> about three people helping with showing, putting the items on the back
>> table and as you wrote, getting the items and handing them to the winner
>> after his purchase.
>> 
>>> With best regards,
>> Moni
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>>> To: 
>>> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>>> Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 10:52:15 -0500
>>> 
>>> While I agree with you in principle for big professional auction houses,
>>> you
>>> need to attend an auction in Denver or Tucson before reserving judgement.
>>> Some of them are very informal and not like a normal auction situation.
>>> 
>>> In at least one auction that I attended, the procecure is unlike a normal
>>> auction in such a way that tends to depresses the prices in my opinion.
>>> 
>>> For example, in a normal auction if I buy item number 10 out of 200 items
>>> offered and
>>> want to go home, then I just check out, pay and go home.  At at least one

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[MARK BOSTICK]

Jim wrote" All this discussion has convinced me that perhaps I have been 
looking at the
posting of auction hammer prices incorrectly.  I now SUPPORT the posting of
the prices.

However, I do feel that they should be posted by the people actually running
the auction as an OFFICIAL record of the auction results.  This should be
done with the specifications of the auction lot as well for clarification on
the quality of the piece offered."

I agree with Jim.  I understand the problems with posting prices.  People 
seem to think the lowest price they ever see a meteorite sell is what it is 
worth, which is strange, as they understand the highest price is a fluke.  
So while I saw no problems in the past, I now think auction prices should be 
posted to keep things clear and honest.

One can also ask, should my absentee bid be what I pay if I won, or should 
it be the next increment over the previous highest bid?

Clear Skies,
Mark


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Jim Strope]

All this discussion has convinced me that perhaps I have been looking at the 
posting of auction hammer prices incorrectly.  I now SUPPORT the posting of 
the prices.

However, I do feel that they should be posted by the people actually running 
the auction as an OFFICIAL record of the auction results.  This should be 
done with the specifications of the auction lot as well for claification on 
the quality of the piece offered.

Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com


- Original Message - 
From: "Pete Pete" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 

Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 12:33 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


> Auctions are where you would hope to get bargains, and not pay market 
> value.
> Isn't Ebay an auction?
>
> Cheers,
> Pete
>
>
>
>
> From: Matthias Bärmann <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Jim Strope" 
> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>,
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
> Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 16:39:25 +0100
>
> Hi Jim, list,
>
> I disagree. What concerns all important international auction houses the
> public posting of auction results is a matter of course.
>
> Auction prices are of course no indication of true market values: they  a 
> r
> e  definitely a certain manifestation of market values themselves.
>
> Regards,
>
> Matthias Baermann
>
> - Original Message -
> From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Meteorite Central" 
> Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:57 PM
> Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>
>
> >I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
> > auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of
> > true
> > market values, either high or low.
> >
> > Jim
> >
> > 
> > Michael Farmer Wrote:
> >
> >>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
> >>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
> >>for every last item.
> >
> >
> > Jim Strope
> > 421 Fourth Street
> > Glen Dale, WV  26038
> >
> > http://www.catchafallingstar.com/
> >
> > __
> > Meteorite-list mailing list
> > Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> > http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>
> _
> Your Space. Your Friends. Your Stories. Share your world with Windows Live 
> Spaces. http://discoverspaces.live.com/?loc=en-CA
> 

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Greg Hupe]

Hi Peter,

Yes, eBay is a GREAT place to get awesome bargains for anything from 
fragments all the way up to large museum quality specimens, from reputable 
dealers and collectors alike! Like other auctions, eBay does have its share 
of frauds to look out for!

Best regards,
Greg


Greg Hupe
The Hupe Collection
NaturesVault (eBay)
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
www.LunarRock.com
IMCA 3163



- Original Message - 
From: "Pete Pete" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 

Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 12:33 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


> Auctions are where you would hope to get bargains, and not pay market 
> value.
> Isn't Ebay an auction?
>
> Cheers,
> Pete
>
>
>
>
> From: Matthias Bärmann <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Jim Strope" 
> <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>,
> Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
> Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 16:39:25 +0100
>
> Hi Jim, list,
>
> I disagree. What concerns all important international auction houses the
> public posting of auction results is a matter of course.
>
> Auction prices are of course no indication of true market values: they  a 
> r
> e  definitely a certain manifestation of market values themselves.
>
> Regards,
>
> Matthias Baermann
>
> - Original Message -
> From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Meteorite Central" 
> Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:57 PM
> Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>
>
> >I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
> > auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of
> > true
> > market values, either high or low.
> >
> > Jim
> >
> > 
> > Michael Farmer Wrote:
> >
> >>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
> >>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
> >>for every last item.
> >
> >
> > Jim Strope
> > 421 Fourth Street
> > Glen Dale, WV  26038
> >
> > http://www.catchafallingstar.com/
> >
> > __
> > Meteorite-list mailing list
> > Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> > http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>
> _
> Your Space. Your Friends. Your Stories. Share your world with Windows Live
> Spaces. http://discoverspaces.live.com/?loc=en-CA
>
>





> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Pete Pete]

Auctions are where you would hope to get bargains, and not pay market value.
Isn't Ebay an auction?

Cheers,
Pete




From: Matthias Bärmann <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>,
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 16:39:25 +0100

Hi Jim, list,

I disagree. What concerns all important international auction houses the
public posting of auction results is a matter of course.

Auction prices are of course no indication of true market values: they  a r
e  definitely a certain manifestation of market values themselves.

Regards,

Matthias Baermann

- Original Message -
From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Meteorite Central" 
Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:57 PM
Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


>I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
> auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of
> true
> market values, either high or low.
>
> Jim
>
> 
> Michael Farmer Wrote:
>
>>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
>>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
>>for every last item.
>
>
> Jim Strope
> 421 Fourth Street
> Glen Dale, WV  26038
>
> http://www.catchafallingstar.com/
>
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

_
Your Space. Your Friends. Your Stories. Share your world with Windows Live 
Spaces. http://discoverspaces.live.com/?loc=en-CA


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Moni Waiblinger-Seabridge]

Hi once more,

I don't agree with this position simply because isn't that why one goes to 
an auction?

Too deal and get a deal.
So if you display the prices it should not matter at all.
Actually I would think, what a steal people got purchasing the meteorites 
for a low price and if I look for a specific one, check the next time there 
is an auction and if it is offered, see if I couldn't win it at a low price 
too.


Auction prices don't reflect the true market values.
I am sure everyone knows that!

Regards,
Moni





From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Meteorite Central" 
Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 09:57:49 -0500

I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of true
market values, either high or low.

Jim


Michael Farmer Wrote:

>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
>for every last item.


Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com/

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list


_
Check out all that glitters with the MSN Entertainment Guide to the Academy 
Awards®   http://movies.msn.com/movies/oscars2007/?icid=ncoscartagline2


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Jim Strope]

Obviously, a lack of staff results in less than optimum customer service. 
Perhaps spending an extra $100- to hire someone to check out bidders who 
want to leave would have a positive impact on the auction results as a 
whole.  I personally know of at least two collectors who refused to attend 
an auction because of lack of customer service.  I also personally know of 
one collector who left without paying because he got tired of waiting.

Hopefully, next year will be a more pleasant experience.

Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com


- Original Message - 
From: "Moni Waiblinger-Seabridge" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 
Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 11:31 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


> Hi Jim and All,
>
> I also go to an auction and it is the same as you describe.
> I think if you have to wait until all the auction is done, it is simply 
> because there isn't enough staff.
> At the auction I attend, there is two auctioneers that take turns and then 
> about three people helping with showing, putting the items on the back 
> table and as you wrote, getting the items and handing them to the winner 
> after his purchase.
>
> > With best regards,
> Moni
>
>
>
>>From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>>To: 
>>Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>>Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 10:52:15 -0500
>>
>>While I agree with you in principle for big professional auction houses, 
>>you
>>need to attend an auction in Denver or Tucson before reserving judgement.
>>Some of them are very informal and not like a normal auction situation.
>>
>>In at least one auction that I attended, the procecure is unlike a normal
>>auction in such a way that tends to depresses the prices in my opinion.
>>
>>For example, in a normal auction if I buy item number 10 out of 200 items
>>offered and
>>want to go home, then I just check out, pay and go home.  At at least one
>>Tucson auction that I attended,
>>I would have to wait until the end of the auction to pay and then pay in
>>bidder number order.  So instead of going home at 8:00 when I am done 
>>buying
>>I have to wait until until all bidding on all items is completed before I
>>can go home which could be well after midnight.  This makes it so that
>>people don't tend to bid unless they REALLY, REALLY want the item.  So
>>prices are certainly
>>not representative to prices much may have been realized in one of the big
>>auction houses.
>>
>>Just my two cents...
>>
>>Jim Strope
>>421 Fourth Street
>>Glen Dale, WV  26038
>>
>>http://www.catchafallingstar.com
>>
>
> _
> Valentine's Day -- Shop for gifts that spell L-O-V-E at MSN Shopping 
> http://shopping.msn.com/content/shp/?ctId=8323,ptnrid=37,ptnrdata=24095&tcode=wlmtagline
> 

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Moni Waiblinger-Seabridge]

Hi Jim and All,

I also go to an auction and it is the same as you describe.
I think if you have to wait until all the auction is done, it is simply 
because there isn't enough staff.
At the auction I attend, there is two auctioneers that take turns and then 
about three people helping with showing, putting the items on the back table 
and as you wrote, getting the items and handing them to the winner after his 
purchase.


Also if someone has called in a bid, the auctioneer just starts with that 
price and if he gets more, then the other bidder who bid higher wins the 
item.


With best regards,
Moni




From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 10:52:15 -0500

While I agree with you in principle for big professional auction houses, 
you

need to attend an auction in Denver or Tucson before reserving judgement.
Some of them are very informal and not like a normal auction situation.

In at least one auction that I attended, the procecure is unlike a normal
auction in such a way that tends to depresses the prices in my opinion.

For example, in a normal auction if I buy item number 10 out of 200 items
offered and
want to go home, then I just check out, pay and go home.  At at least one
Tucson auction that I attended,
I would have to wait until the end of the auction to pay and then pay in
bidder number order.  So instead of going home at 8:00 when I am done 
buying

I have to wait until until all bidding on all items is completed before I
can go home which could be well after midnight.  This makes it so that
people don't tend to bid unless they REALLY, REALLY want the item.  So
prices are certainly
not representative to prices much may have been realized in one of the big
auction houses.

Just my two cents...

Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com



_
Valentine’s Day -- Shop for gifts that spell L-O-V-E at MSN Shopping 
http://shopping.msn.com/content/shp/?ctId=8323,ptnrid=37,ptnrdata=24095&tcode=wlmtagline


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Matthias Bärmann]

There's no proof of existence of "normal" and "unnormal" auctions.

The principle of auction is very clear and internationally accepted, any 
auction is per definitionem "a special form of finding out the market values 
of things". The final publication of auction results as confirmation of this 
value is a main aspect of this principle. It is transparency which makes the 
mechanism function.

Just my 1 Euro   ;-)

Matthias Baermann



- Original Message - 
From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 4:52 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


While I agree with you in principle for big professional auction houses, you
need to attend an auction in Denver or Tucson before reserving judgement.
Some of them are very informal and not like a normal auction situation.

In at least one auction that I attended, the procecure is unlike a normal
auction in such a way that tends to depresses the prices in my opinion.

For example, in a normal auction if I buy item number 10 out of 200 items
offered and
want to go home, then I just check out, pay and go home.  At at least one
Tucson auction that I attended,
I would have to wait until the end of the auction to pay and then pay in
bidder number order.  So instead of going home at 8:00 when I am done buying
I have to wait until until all bidding on all items is completed before I
can go home which could be well after midnight.  This makes it so that
people don't tend to bid unless they REALLY, REALLY want the item.  So
prices are certainly
not representative to prices much may have been realized in one of the big
auction houses.

Just my two cents...

Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com


- Original Message - 
From: "Matthias Bärmann" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 
Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 10:39 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


> Hi Jim, list,
>
> I disagree. What concerns all important international auction houses the
> public posting of auction results is a matter of course.
>
> Auction prices are of course no indication of true market values: they  a
> r e  definitely a certain manifestation of market values themselves.
>
> Regards,
>
> Matthias Baermann
>
> - Original Message - 
> From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Meteorite Central" 
> Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:57 PM
> Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>
>
>>I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
>> auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of
>> true
>> market values, either high or low.
>>
>> Jim
>>
>> 
>> Michael Farmer Wrote:
>>
>>>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
>>>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
>>>for every last item.
>>
>>
>> Jim Strope
>> 421 Fourth Street
>> Glen Dale, WV  26038
>>
>> http://www.catchafallingstar.com/
>>
>> __
>> Meteorite-list mailing list
>> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list 

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Jim Strope]

While I agree with you in principle for big professional auction houses, you 
need to attend an auction in Denver or Tucson before reserving judgement. 
Some of them are very informal and not like a normal auction situation.

In at least one auction that I attended, the procecure is unlike a normal 
auction in such a way that tends to depresses the prices in my opinion.

For example, in a normal auction if I buy item number 10 out of 200 items 
offered and
want to go home, then I just check out, pay and go home.  At at least one 
Tucson auction that I attended,
I would have to wait until the end of the auction to pay and then pay in
bidder number order.  So instead of going home at 8:00 when I am done buying
I have to wait until until all bidding on all items is completed before I 
can go home which could be well after midnight.  This makes it so that 
people don't tend to bid unless they REALLY, REALLY want the item.  So 
prices are certainly
not representative to prices much may have been realized in one of the big 
auction houses.

Just my two cents...

Jim Strope
421 Fourth Street
Glen Dale, WV  26038

http://www.catchafallingstar.com


- Original Message - 
From: "Matthias Bärmann" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>; 
Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 10:39 AM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


> Hi Jim, list,
>
> I disagree. What concerns all important international auction houses the 
> public posting of auction results is a matter of course.
>
> Auction prices are of course no indication of true market values: they  a 
> r e  definitely a certain manifestation of market values themselves.
>
> Regards,
>
> Matthias Baermann
>
> - Original Message - 
> From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Meteorite Central" 
> Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:57 PM
> Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang
>
>
>>I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
>> auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of 
>> true
>> market values, either high or low.
>>
>> Jim
>>
>> 
>> Michael Farmer Wrote:
>>
>>>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
>>>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
>>>for every last item.
>>
>>
>> Jim Strope
>> 421 Fourth Street
>> Glen Dale, WV  26038
>>
>> http://www.catchafallingstar.com/
>>
>> __
>> Meteorite-list mailing list
>> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
>> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
> 

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang

[Matthias Bärmann]

Hi Jim, list,

I disagree. What concerns all important international auction houses the 
public posting of auction results is a matter of course.

Auction prices are of course no indication of true market values: they  a r 
e  definitely a certain manifestation of market values themselves.

Regards,

Matthias Baermann

- Original Message - 
From: "Jim Strope" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Meteorite Central" 
Sent: Thursday, February 08, 2007 3:57 PM
Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION RESULTS - Blood and Lang


>I agree with Michael Blood's position that the public posting of final
> auction prices is a bad idea.  Auction prices are NOT an indication of 
> true
> market values, either high or low.
>
> Jim
>
> 
> Michael Farmer Wrote:
>
>>This is simple auction procedure. I will post my list
>>first thing in the morning. I have the hammer prices
>>for every last item.
>
>
> Jim Strope
> 421 Fourth Street
> Glen Dale, WV  26038
>
> http://www.catchafallingstar.com/
>
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list 

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Catalog Complete

[Michael L Blood]

Greetings all,
I completed the Tucson Meteorite Auction catalog
today, adding the two final items:
109  
Book - Meteorites: A Photographic Study of Surface
Features:Part One Shapes - Signed by Ninninger
No Minimum

and:

110
Book - Meteorites: A Photographic Study of Surface
Features:Part Two: Orientation by Ninninger
No Minimum

Both these books are in very good condition, are highly prized,
and are full of hundreds of the most spectacular photos of fantastic
meteorites ever taken and both books are nearly impossible to get.
When I first started collecting, I was lucky enough to get one of
them (I cannot remember which one) after about two years - but
it took me nearly 8 years to get its companion.

Anyway, anyone wanting to add any items will now have to
do so at the auction - and I need to get any remaining absentee
bids in in the next 24 hrs or so.
Looking foreword to seeing you all there!
Best wishes, Michael


  








__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Photos up

[Michael L Blood]

Mr. CIMALA,
Below is the post I sent you in private, yesterday. - Michael
-
Here are the results:
MC-78 SOLD = $1,000-
MC-79 SOLD = 130-
MC80 SOLD = 170-
MC-81 NO SALE
MC-82 NO SALE 
I will be sending out all payments tomorrow. What is
your address?
If you want to sell the Zaklodzie & Brahin on ebay, it will likely
go to someone in the US and I can ship it directly to them and save
you some money.
RSVP
Thanks, Michael

on 2/14/05 3:16 PM, Meteoryt.net at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

> Hello Mr Blood
> Can u only tell me if You sell on Your auctions my specimen of
> Zaklodzie E-ungr 53g, Lowicz MES 23g ??
> Becouse I want send them to eBay (5cent sale tooday) but if they was sold
> then I should not do that.
> 
> -[ MARCIN CIMALA ]-[ I.M.C.A.#3667 ]-
> http://www.Meteoryt.net [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.PolandMET.com   [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.Gao-Guenie.com  GSM +48(607)535 195
> [ Member of Polish Meteoritical Society ]
> 
> 
> - Original Message -
> From: "Michael L Blood" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: "Meteoryt.net" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> Sent: Wednesday, January 05, 2005 8:50 AM
> Subject: RSVP re confimation
> 
> 
> I have the following pieces (with jpgs) listed (please confirm - RSVP):
> MC-78
> Lowicz (Mesosiderite)
> Fell March 11, 1935 Lowicz, Poland TKW:+110kg
> 22.9g endpiece with fresh crust   27x22x16mm
> reserve 1,000-
> 
> MC-79
> Kilabo (LL6)  breccia S3/W0
> FDLL: 21 July21, 2002, 19:30 Kilabo, Nigeria
> 42.8g half specimen with crust  44x31x25 mm
> reserve 300-
> 
> MC-80
> Bjurböle  (L/LL4)  S1/W0
> FELL March 12, 1899, 22:30 Borga, Nyland, Finland
> 21.03g  33x24x18 mm
> reserve 200-
> 
> MC-81
> Zaklodzie  (Enstatite)  Ungr. Primitive Achondrite S1/W1
> 1998 Zamosc, Poland TKW:8.68kg
> 53.5g  50x47x8 mm
> Reserve: 3,500-
> 
> 

 
--
"You and I do not see things as they are. We see things as we are."
 -Herb Cohen
--
If a million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing.

on 2/15/05 2:37 PM, Meteoryt.net at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

>> Hi All,
>> McCartneyTaylor was kind enough to send me a bunch
>> of photos he took at the auction. You can view them at:
>> 
>> http://www.michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionOLCat.html
> 
> Hmm
> Maybe I'm little nervous, but I will be more happy to know at least if I
> sell anything on Your auctions or not. Its more than one week and still no
> info.
> 
> Impatient person
> 
> -[ MARCIN CIMALA ]-[ I.M.C.A.#3667 ]-
> http://www.Meteoryt.net [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.PolandMET.com   [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.Gao-Guenie.com  GSM +48(607)535 195
> [ Member of Polish Meteoritical Society ]
> 
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

 
--
"You and I do not see things as they are. We see things as we are."
 -Herb Cohen
--
If a million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing.

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Photos up

[Meteoryt.net]

> Hi All,
> McCartneyTaylor was kind enough to send me a bunch
> of photos he took at the auction. You can view them at:
>
> http://www.michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionOLCat.html

Hmm
Maybe I'm little nervous, but I will be more happy to know at least if I
sell anything on Your auctions or not. Its more than one week and still no
info.

Impatient person

-[ MARCIN CIMALA ]-[ I.M.C.A.#3667 ]-
http://www.Meteoryt.net [EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.PolandMET.com   [EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.Gao-Guenie.com  GSM +48(607)535 195
[ Member of Polish Meteoritical Society ]

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Photos up

[Michael L Blood]

Hi All,
McCartneyTaylor was kind enough to send me a bunch
of photos he took at the auction. You can view them at:

http://www.michaelbloodmeteorites.com/AuctionOLCat.html

Click each to enlarge.
Best wishes, Michael




 
--
"You and I do not see things as they are. We see things as we are."
 -Herb Cohen
--
If a million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing.

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Update

[martinh]

Howdy Folks,

DNA Dave brings up an interesting point in his request for a large stone in 
Michael Blood’s Tucson Auction.

As the largest single contributor of non-NWA pieces in Michael’s auction, I put 
considerable thought and effort into both what I would offer and the reserve 
price if any placed on the piece. My choices were based upon the belief that 
the auction format works best when material is offered that cannot be readily 
acquired from other sources. Large unclassified stones are, for meteorites 
anyway, somewhat common with one Canadian dealer recently offering “Humongous” 
pieces at rather low prices.

While the largest piece I have in Michael’s auction is only 272g, I did try to 
include a variety of pieces covering many of the collecting threads pursued by 
those who fancy meteorites. Here are some statistics for the 38 pieces I have 
in Michael’s auction:

10 Witnessed falls
11 Specimens with notable collection numbers and/or labels
6 pieces with Nininger numbers
2 E
ucrites
2 Howardites
1 Diogenite
1 Ureilite
2 Mesosiderites
4 irons
1 Silicated anomalous iron
1 Enstatite chondrite
3 Carbonaceous chondrites including two type 3.0 specimens!
21 Ordinary chondrites including an LL4 fall
2 stones with a total known weight of ~200g or less
5 Other stones with at TKW of 5kg or less 
1 Historic Nininger Star
7 Pieces that fell or were found in the 1800s
2 Pieces that fell or were found in the 1700s
14 Pieces with no reserve
$50 is the lowest reserve
$7000 the highest reserve
6 Specimens are half or complete individuals
4 Specimens are end sections
4 Specimens are fragments
22 Specimens are complete or partial slices

So in a nutshell, while I cannot please everyone, I did make a conscious effort 
to please as many people as I possible. It is my hope that the rarity of most 
of these pieces will be recognized before or during the auction instead of 
after. Often when I review old auction outcomes whether the King Auction or 
Darryl’s auctions, I kic
k myself saying, “What was I thinking? I cannot believe I let that piece go!”

Cheers,

Martin


- Original Message -
From: DNAndrews <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Date: Friday, January 28, 2005 1:11 am
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Update (AD)

> 
> >) I am surprised I don't have a good many more.
> >I will be leaving Monday, so, absentee bids will be 
> accepted up to
> >midnight Sunday, Jan. 30th.
> >
> Michael,
> I'll be there and will have more money than I usually have to 
> indulge 
> in.  What I notice this year, is there is nothing BIG.  No big 
> stones, 
> no big irons, just little piddly "rare stuff"...eucrites, 
> howardites, 
> achondrites, luanites,etc.  I am looking for a BIG 
> meteoriteunclassifiedclassifiedI don't care.  Like the 
> one I 
> scarfed last year...very nice.  I want something I can display to 
> non-meteorite folk and have them go "WOW!"  So, if there are some 
> late 
> seller with some decent sized stones or iro
ns...let them in please! 
> 
> Maybe that HB oriented piece looks good to me, but I'm sure I'll 
> get 
> outbid on that one.
> 
> Sorry to bitch,
> Dave
> 
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
> http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction Update (AD)

[DNAndrews]

) I am surprised I don't have a good many more.
   I will be leaving Monday, so, absentee bids will be accepted up to
midnight Sunday, Jan. 30th.
Michael,
I'll be there and will have more money than I usually have to indulge 
in.  What I notice this year, is there is nothing BIG.  No big stones, 
no big irons, just little piddly "rare stuff"...eucrites, howardites, 
achondrites, luanites,etc.  I am looking for a BIG 
meteoriteunclassifiedclassifiedI don't care.  Like the one I 
scarfed last year...very nice.  I want something I can display to 
non-meteorite folk and have them go "WOW!"  So, if there are some late 
seller with some decent sized stones or irons...let them in please!  
Maybe that HB oriented piece looks good to me, but I'm sure I'll get 
outbid on that one.

Sorry to bitch,
Dave
__
Meteorite-list mailing list
Meteorite-list@meteoritecentral.com
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction list for tonight. Many large items over $1000 up for one cent.

[Michael Farmer]

Hi everyone, I have loaded alot of meteorites on eBay  one cent auctions.
 They all end tonight.
 Take a look, grab some end of summer deals for a real bargain.
for example, here is a small piece of Bilanga Diogenite, right now less than
$3.00 per gram!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=2268593733


http://members.ebay.com/ws2/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=meteoritehunters

http://members.ebay.com/ws2/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=meteorite-hunter
 thanks
 Mike Farmer


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] Auction list for tonight. Many large items over $1000 up for one cent.

[Zelimir Gabelica]

Hi Mike,
A question related to your E-bay offer just received (though I am not an 
E-bay buyer).

You are listing "Oum Rokba".
I purchased that one sometimes in the past, from Blaine Reed (incidently 
with an accurate descriptive label). I thought the name was officially 
recognized and the meteorite well documented but never found any official 
description in the Met. Bulls. later on.
Blaine's label gives about  about the same description as yours on E-Bay.
I contacted Bleine recently for more info but he was not able to tell more.

Could you (or anyone) tell me whether Oum Rokba is an official name and 
where is it described ?
Or should that one rather belong to the vast NWA group (if so, which N° ?)

Many thanks and best wishes,
Zelimir

A 08:31 14/09/04 -0700, vous avez écrit :
Subject: Auction list for tonight. Many large items over $1000 up for one
cent.
 Hi everyone, I have loaded alot of meteorites on eBay  one cent auctions.
 They all end tonight.
 Take a look, grab some end of summer deals for a real bargain.
http://members.ebay.com/ws2/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=meteoritehunters
http://members.ebay.com/ws2/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=meteorite-hunter
 thanks
 Mike Farmer
 __
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
Prof. Zelimir Gabelica
Université de Haute Alsace
ENSCMu, Lab. GSEC,
3, Rue A. Werner,
F-68093 Mulhouse Cedex, France
Tel: +33 (0)3 89 33 68 94
Fax: +33 (0)3 89 33 68 15
__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://six.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] AUCTION ALERT: cat mountain on eBay for $.99 !!

[tracy latimer]

Well, that lasted a long time...:-P  Oh, well.

Tracy Latimer


From: Robert Verish <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Meteorite-list Meteoritecentral <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: [meteorite-list] AUCTION ALERT:  cat mountain on eBay for $.99  !!
Date: Thu, 3 Jul 2003 18:06:50 -0700 (PDT)
Auction Alert:  Cat Mountain on eBay for $.99!!



__
Do you Yahoo!?
SBC Yahoo! DSL - Now only $29.95 per month!
http://sbc.yahoo.com
__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
_
The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*  
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] * AUCTION * "Rocks from Space" * AUCTION *

[Fred Olsen]

So now it is at least six!  What is your point?
Stanley
- Original Message -
From: Matteo Chinellato <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Michael Casper <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>;
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Tuesday, April 02, 2002 9:47 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] * AUCTION * "Rocks from Space" * AUCTION *


> 4 TIMES Normaly is only 1
>
> Matteo
>
> --- Michael Casper <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> > This is it! My last 8 copies of "Rocks from Space"
> > Signed by Richard and Dorothy!!
> > Hurry and do it!!
> >
> > xoxox, MC
> >
> >
> http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1090001476
> >
> > Click the above linkand
> > DO IT!
> >
>
>
> =
> M come Meteorite - Matteo Chinellato
> Via Triestina 126/A - 30030 - TESSERA, VENEZIA, ITALY
> Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Sale Site: http://www.mcomemeteorite.com Collection Site:
http://www.mcomemeteorite.info
> International Meteorite Collectors Association #2140
> MSN Messanger: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> EBAY.COM:http:[EMAIL PROTECTED]/
>
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Yahoo! Tax Center - online filing with TurboTax
> http://taxes.yahoo.com/
>
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] * AUCTION * "Rocks from Space" * AUCTION *

[Michael Farmer]

Michael Casper is anything but Normal .
- Original Message -
From: "Matteo Chinellato" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: "Michael Casper" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>;
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Tuesday, April 02, 2002 10:47 PM
Subject: Re: [meteorite-list] * AUCTION * "Rocks from Space" * AUCTION *


> 4 TIMES Normaly is only 1
>
> Matteo
>
> --- Michael Casper <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> > This is it! My last 8 copies of "Rocks from Space"
> > Signed by Richard and Dorothy!!
> > Hurry and do it!!
> >
> > xoxox, MC
> >
> >
> http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1090001476
> >
> > Click the above linkand
> > DO IT!
> >
>
>
> =
> M come Meteorite - Matteo Chinellato
> Via Triestina 126/A - 30030 - TESSERA, VENEZIA, ITALY
> Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Sale Site: http://www.mcomemeteorite.com Collection Site:
http://www.mcomemeteorite.info
> International Meteorite Collectors Association #2140
> MSN Messanger: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> EBAY.COM:http:[EMAIL PROTECTED]/
>
> __
> Do You Yahoo!?
> Yahoo! Tax Center - online filing with TurboTax
> http://taxes.yahoo.com/
>
> __
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list
>


__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list

Re: [meteorite-list] * AUCTION * "Rocks from Space" * AUCTION *

[Matteo Chinellato]

4 TIMES Normaly is only 1

Matteo

--- Michael Casper <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> This is it! My last 8 copies of "Rocks from Space"
> Signed by Richard and Dorothy!!
> Hurry and do it!!
> 
> xoxox, MC
>  
>
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1090001476
> 
> Click the above linkand
> DO IT!
> 


=
M come Meteorite - Matteo Chinellato
Via Triestina 126/A - 30030 - TESSERA, VENEZIA, ITALY
Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sale Site: http://www.mcomemeteorite.com Collection Site: 
http://www.mcomemeteorite.info
International Meteorite Collectors Association #2140
MSN Messanger: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
EBAY.COM:http:[EMAIL PROTECTED]/

__
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Tax Center - online filing with TurboTax
http://taxes.yahoo.com/

__
Meteorite-list mailing list
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list