The art of a Branch Rickey deal (Jim Stinson please)

[Baseball Fan]

I was hoping to start a thread in which a long-time and respected autograph man, who is great at telling stories, might be willing to share his thought process when selling an item.

Mr. Stinson had a beautiful Branch Rickey check go off on eBay tonight for $757.75. A Rickey check is in my top 5 most wanted items. (No, I didn't win). So, I'm facinated to hear the inner workings of how this transaction went down.

Mr. Stinson, if you don't want to answer these, no problem.

1. How did you obtain the check? Did somebody e-mail you? Was it part of a larger lot?

2. Did you know you'd be able to make a good amount on it? Is Rickey always an easy sell? How many checks have you had of him?

3. You put it on ebay for a buy it now at $650. It didn't sell. I believe you then put it on for $550 before making it an auction. What made you decide to put it out at that price, and then lower it before going to auction?

4. Did you end the auction on Jan. 31 on purpose, since it's Jackie Robinson's birthday? I know how much you appreciate some great baseball history, so I could see you ending it on this day on purpose.

5. When it cleared for more than you even had at the buy it now price, do you take the time to smile?

Would love to hear your thoughts. What a great item. Congrats on a big sale.