Expert: James Yee - 8/12/2010

Question
Hi James,

I picked up an Emilia Garcia Cuban Cigar Trifold sign. It's a great piece in
pretty good condition. I really want to get it off my hands and sell it. It's on
eBay, but it doesn't seem like anyone is really interested. Do you know why
this could be? Do you know of anyone who might like to buy a piece like this
for a reasonable price?

Please let me know. Here's the eBay link. I also attached a photo. Thanks a lot!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?
ViewItem&Item=160466712865&Category=38040&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%2
6its%3DI%26otn%3D2#ht_500wt_1154

David


Answer
Hi David,

That's a great piece of cigar history but I'm not sure why it isn't selling.  There could one or many reasons why there aren't any interested bidders.  To attract bidders, you may want to lower the starting bid as a lot of people may be discouraged by the high starting price.  Also, it really helps if the item is authenticated and appraised by an antique/tobacciana dealer or expert.  People are more willing to bid if they know an item is definitely worth something.  In your auction description, you should also mention which shipping methods you are willing to use.  You mention that shipping is $20 but in the auction description, mention "FREE, careful shipping".  This may confuse or discourage people from bidding.

With not-so-popular or obscure items, selling on eBay is also hit or miss because there's no guarantee that someone is looking for a vintage trifold cigar sign during the listing period.  You can try re-listing the item several times and hopefully somebody will notice it and bid.  Be sure to check the Internet for online tutorials that explain how you can attract more bidders with your eBay items.

If listing it on eBay doesn't work out, try selling it to an antique or tobacciana dealer.  You can also try selling the sign to a cigar store, Cuban art dealer or to a private collector.  Visit your local cigar lounge and get to know some of the fellow customers there.  In many cases, fellow cigar smokers love collecting cigar memorabilia and may be interested in your item.  All you have to do is just ask around.

Hope this helps!  If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James