Selling at auction all depends on the crowd and the times. Also, many auctioneers have "covenants" with certain dealers and for a "small remuneration" do get quick on the hammer. I've seen this time and time again. Also, I have been approached and offered items beforehand and after sales where reserve was not made and offered the item item, plus commission of course. I do a bit of work for museums and it is amazing watching the shenanigans at auction houses and sorry...no names. Also, be sure, if selling, the house has an escrow account. I know several people who never did get paid or were paid a pittance of value received with the threat:" I'll just go bankrupt and then you get nothing". You are not a secured creditor as a seller. Several of the "well know auction houses" have pulled this one.