Replies to archived posts are not allowed.
From: Walt Vogdes
Remote Name: 24.113.95.243
Hi, Pam. You raise a difficult question, and most of us that have sold steins have availed ourselves of each of the options you mention, at one time or another. The major stein auction companies (not just any auction company, I refer specifically to the three which specialize in steins) reach a large group of collectors and they handle photography, preparation of a catalog, accurate descriptions and evaluation of condition, packing and shipping, plus handling all payment arrangements. The downside, of course, is that they get paid for performing these services, and that eats into what you would otherwise net. ebay also reaches large numbers of collectors, and the fees they charge are quite a bit less than the stein auction houses, but they don't provide the same list of services. Many ebay buyers "discount" their ebay bids, because of the uncertainty about the knowledge level of the seller, and their ability to describe the item, and especially its condition, accurately. In addition, as seller you have to determine how - or if - you want to protect yourself with a reserve or a minimum opening bid. This implies that you have a good idea of the value, and are willing to sell at a realistic price. Items which are "over-valued" by their reserve or opening bid generally don't sell. The seller must also provide clear photos and be able to list the steins in a way that they are easily found, but this last is not a problem with Mettlach (since collectors search for that word). The last possibility you mention is to list the steins for sale on this site (in the "Selling/Seeking" area. The advantage is that you get to set the price and don't have to pay any fees. The downside is that you need to be patient and allow time for collectors to find the listings, you must set a price yourself (not an auction format), and you have to handle photography, description, guarantees(?), payment arrangements, packing and shipping and any headaches that may arise during that process. Bottom line, there is no single BEST way that suits all sellers and all items.