Too good to be true? Trust your instincts when it comes to bidding or purchasing coins, especially Trade Dollars from China. Just for the sake of amusement and because they were Carson City Trade Dollars starting at a low bid of just 35 cents, we decided to bid on one. Upon receipt of our invoice, we were astounded to find that the shipping and handling charges were $72.00!! Not in our wildest dreams did we think it would ever cost that much!

Not only were we skeptical of the authenticity, but could not believe this outlandish shipping and handling. Despite trying to resolve this with the seller, we were told by Ebay that we should have asked the seller before we bid. We have shipped books to other countries for under $30!!! In fact, it cost us $8 to return it with insurance and return receipt.

Although Ebay has a policy about overcharging for shipping and handling and for skirting Ebay fees by this means, nothing could be done. Ebay still has not done anything to enforce this rule despite numerous complaints and emails from us. The end result is yet to be determined. Ebays advice was to pay or risk the negative feedback and non paying bidder strike. If more Ebayers complain, may be something can be done to keep the coin world safe from scammers. Many Ebayers guarantee satisfaction as do the sellers of the trade dollars from China. They will be happy to give your 35 cents back and keep your $72.

Also be aware that there is a great variance from the picture and what you receive. We know, we got one. The coin received was about XF condition. The one listed in the picture was AU to BU. Definitely not the same coin as it had very different markings, color, etc.

 USE EXTREME CAUTION and learn from our mistake!