RR Auction

Quick summary on RR Auction

RR Auction, established in 1976 by Bob Eaton, has faced significant scrutiny and legal challenges over allegations of fraudulent practices and the sale of inauthentic memorabilia.

Founding and Operations: Based in Amherst, New Hampshire, with headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts, RR Auction has been a prominent player in the auction industry, specializing in spaceflight photos, historical documents, autographs, antiques, sports memorabilia, and presidential artifacts. Despite its global reach and monthly catalogs, the company has been criticized for questionable auction practices and concerns about the authenticity of its offerings.

Ownership and Leadership: Founder Bob Eaton claims expertise in authentication and valuation, asserting he has studied over a million signatures. However, his methods and the accuracy of his assessments have been challenged by industry experts, leading to doubts about the company’s integrity under his leadership.

Legal Challenges: In April 2012, Michael Johnson filed a lawsuit against RR Auction, alleging the sale of counterfeit items. He sought class-action status and up to $5 million in damages. However, in March 2015, Judge Donna Geck of the Santa Barbara Superior Court denied class certification, citing the complexity and cost of proving each item’s authenticity individually.

Industry Reputation: The company’s practices have led to a loss of trust within the auction community. Critics point to dubious auction tactics and questionable cataloging methods, raising concerns about the authenticity and provenance of items sold.

Customer Allegations: Some customers have reported receiving items later identified as forgeries, leading to financial losses and legal disputes. These incidents have further damaged RR Auction’s credibility and raised questions about its commitment to due diligence and ethical standards.

RR Auction’s history is marred by allegations of fraud, legal battles, and a tarnished reputation within the auction industry. These issues highlight the importance of rigorous authentication processes and ethical practices in maintaining trust with clients and the broader market.