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John SWe can debate forever whether this is a common practice in any auction venue. I stopped going to a local live auction because I began to notice that the same half-dozen "bidders" would be present in the audience for every auction. Obviously I was there as well but I bid on and won items regularly. They never won a thing.
As much as I might want an item I set a limit before I start bidding. At least in my mind, even if shill bidding is involved I will not be cheated.