[Aquarian Sports Cards]

As has been discussed elsewhere. In most places shill bidding in and of itself isn't illegal. The problem is intent and knowledge can make it illegal. Basically if you bid something up but then honor the commitment if you "accidentally" win you're fine. If you conspire with a buddy to run something up, or if you have knowledge of other's max bids and simply force them to max out, then you are breaking the law.

Read Heritage's T&C they actually come right out and state that they reserve the right to shill bid. They don't really have to say it, but, to their credit they do.

21. The Auctioneer, its affiliates, or their employees consign items to be sold in the Auction, and may bid on those lots or any other lots. Auctioneer or affiliates expressly reserve the right to modify any such bids at any time prior to the hammer based upon data made known to the Auctioneer or its affiliates. The Auctioneer may
extend advances, guarantees, or loans to certain consignors.