Tim's suggestion is exactly how I have handled making offers and buying auctions early on Ebay. It harkens back to the old days of Ebay, before Paypal when all transactions were check or moneyorder based.
As to your questions about the protections you have as a seller, Once you end the auction, with the intention of selling outside Ebay's auction or BIN system, you loose any and all Ebay protections as a seller. It's as simple as that, Ebay no longer considers it an Ebay transaction and you will be on your own.
As Tim said, request that the user mail you a Moneyorder. When you deposit or cash the moneyorder, make sure to find out from your bank how long it will take for a moneyorder to completely clear into your account. Even moneyorders can bounce after they appear to initially clear into your account, that's why I suggest waiting for the entire "clear time" just as you would a personal check (7-10 days). Wait and hold the card(s) for this period of time, ensuring the funds clear. Then ship the cards with delivery and signature confirmation.
That should be sufficient to ensure a safe transaction on your end.
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