Why do cards at auction sell for more?

[wonkaticket]

While it’s not always the case I can think of two cards recently that sold for way way more in private deals than they ever would have at auction. I can’t really share details but I can tell you it was much much more than an auction would have returned.

I think this happens more than we know but due to the private nature we just don’t know about it. I also will say they have to be significant or tougher cards were not talking run of the mill pre-war etc.

[drcy]

For big auction house auctions, it has always been my idea that there are well monied people who don't have the time or inclination to comb eBay and stick to the big auctions. They may feel the big auctions are more reliable, from authenticity to processing & shipping of a $20,000 order.

[Leon]

Originally Posted by wonkaticket

While it’s not always the case I can think of two cards recently that sold for way way more in private deals than they ever would have at auction. I can’t really share details but I can tell you it was much much more than an auction would have returned.

I think this happens more than we know but due to the private nature we just don’t know about it. I also will say they have to be significant or tougher cards were not talking run of the mill pre-war etc.

First to answer a question above. My initial post was just auctions vs private sales in general. Any ole auction, I wasn't being picky or specific.

As to your comment John. I have lived that scenario many times, buying and selling. But those cards in those private sales probably (mine weren't) weren't listed publicly and not selling before going to auction.