Thanks to some I am probably pointing out the obvious, but this is a good thread.  I've had some bargains buying on ebay but I've also fell for the odd con before and bought items that turned out to be not as described or not what they appear to be and I'm sure I probably will do again. The key is to do a little research before hand if you can, examine what the sellers return options are in case you need to return it. After weighing all these then decide if its worth taking a gamble. I have to say thought $4000 I would not take a gamble and think you did the right thing Mat. 9 times out of 10 if a deal looks to good to be true it probably is or as VickySilver says "There is no Santa Claus in Numimatics". You should always trust your instinct and don't be scarred to ask a seller questions. If they don't reply or their reply sounds dodgy, move on.