If you are not sure where to go to learn more about fake Civil War relics being sold on e-bay, and you are interested in knowing just WHAT sellers are the sellers of fakes, then go to the American Relic Hunters!  Yes, GOOGLE "American Relic Hunters" and then enter their E-BAY FAKES FORUM.  They have a list they call their HALL of SHAME at the top of the page that lists all the known sellers of fake and fantasy relics on e-bay!  Now this list is updated daily, so always keep an eye out.  Also, GOOGLE "fake Civil War Relics" and see all the additional sources you will find.  Never go into battle unarmed!

Tips to safe buying on e-bay

1) ALWAYS scan the category at the top of the page.  If an item is in REENACTMENT/REPRO, it is just that:  A REPRODUCTION!  Real relics are NEVER found in this category no matter WHAT the auction description says.

2) Never bid on PRIVATE AUCTIONS.  This type of auction is 9 out of 10 times being run by the seller of a fake.

3) Demand guarantees from sellers!  Demand time to get an item approved by a reputable expert, and get the guarantee for this time in writing.  Unless you know and trust the seller, get AT LEAST a one-year guarantee of authenticity so in 6 months if you find out your item is a fake you can get your money back...or at least have something to take a seller to court.  Get AND VERIFY the seller's address (P.O. box is NOT an address), and phone number.  Don't trust ANY verbal guarantees.  Get it all in writing.

4) Get WRITTEN verification of any and ALL provenance on any relic you buy.  You should be told where the seller obtained it, who recovered it (if it is a dug relic), and you should ask for more than the seller's story for an item that is supposed to be ID'd to a person, or a certain battlefield like Antietam or Gettysburg.  Provenances are made up as the relic passes from one seller to another.  Beware the ones attaching an item to famous people or places.  If there is no written proof, and you are unfamiliar with the seller...DON'T BID!!!

5) When you can, use PAYPAL.  I know there are many disadvantages to it, but if you DO get taken by a fake, Paypal is good to assist you in recovering your money.  A check is also good, but BEWARE of using money orders!  They leave you open to being left with a fake item and no money.

If you have read my 11 other guides, thi will seem like the same-old same-old, but there is a method to my madness.  If I can get folks to read these guides, even just one...it may save some poor soul from being ripped off by one of the many disgusting sellers of fake and fantasy Civil War relics.