Should I say something about it?

[Rob D.]

Robbie,

It's been my experience when notifying auction houses of such an error that nothing gets done. More than once I've read "only one known" descriptions, only to have another example of the described item sitting in my basement. Sometimes I've even e-mailed a photo as proof. I suppose the auction house can maintain that unless its representatives see another example in person, theirs is the only one known to them. I suppose.

Looking at the bright side, most bidders know to take all such puffery that auction houses spew with a grain of salt.

(Like you, in the very auction to which you're referring, there's an item described as "Extremely rare, this is the only one we've ever seen." I have one, have seen another offered at a National and have seen two others for sale on eBay. Who knows, maybe my eyesight is above average.)

[drc]

They said only known copy and if they didn't know of yours, they were correct.

My experience is to never say anything is the only example, because when you do that usually means a second and third will pop up in the future. If on eBay you honestly say "This is the only one I've seen before" that's fine. You're only discussing what you've seen. No one says you have to see and know all.

[Robbie]

Hi Guys...

I thought that a major auction house would at least check major auctions before proclaiming something "the only one." We're talking the Halper Collection! I guess, based on what Rob D says, I'm expecting too much.

[Rob D.]

Originally Posted by Robbie

Hi Guys...

I thought that a major auction house would at least check major auctions before proclaiming something "the only one." We're talking the Halper Collection! I guess, based on what Rob D says, I'm expecting too much.

Well, my thoughts and experiences obviously are anecdotal. Who knows, maybe the auction house in question strives for accuracy and will welcome your input. It's worth a shot.

Please let us know the result if you contact the auction house.

[E93]

It seems obvious to me that the thing to do is let the auction house know. I would be surprised if they did not change their online description if you have convincing evidence of another example.
JimB