There is of course the point of asking as much as possible to maximize profit. There's a good chance somebody will come along and pay it. Remember, there are those for whom paying $300 too much is nothing, because it's only $300.Annarobertson1947 wrote: ↑Tue May 21, 2024 7:47 am I understand this but one would have to admit that a lot of dealers do stretch things in asking price to point of absurdity
On the other hand, high $$ value attracts those who see themselves as top rarities collectors. I learned this many years ago at the LA Bug Show- I had a rare beetle that didn't sell on day 1. But instead of reducing the price on Day 2, I tripled the price. It sold quickly...then others were running to ask if I had more.
Finally, the high-$$ specimens may be part of the dealer's collection and they don't need to sell it, maybe don't want to sell it. I do this. I may price a $4000 item at $6000; you want to pay $6000 then you can have it, but otherwise I'll keep it, thank you.
It's easy for a dealer to initially price high, and reduce the price if it doesn't sell. That is what's typically and universally done.