I would like to ask a question about comparing a coin I have with a coin that is currently at auction. Is it permissible to post the picture from the auction site without any permission from the auction house? The picture in question has an identifying stamp on it that would be transferred with the picture if I use it. I am just not sure about what is acceptable by CT in this instance.
Just post the link and you should be fine. While we're at it I have a question: Are we allowed to mention we have coins being sold at an auction?
I have this problem while building my site, Heritage is one that doesn't allow images to be used. As far as CT goes a moderator should be able to answer your question. From Heritage's site
This might be somewhat of a gray area. Mentioning you’ve coins at auction shouldn’t be an issue, but linking or giving detailed descriptions clearly intended to lead others to the listings might cross a line though. The rules state “affiliated with in any way” and even if one has no direct connection with an auction house in the general sense, it’s hard to argue the there isn’t one when they’re selling one’s belongings. If you want a for-sure answer, perhaps contact one of the mods. In response to the OP question, many Heritage photos have been posted here over the years without issue so I don’t see why there’d be a problem now as long as credit is given. Still, if you wish to be safe than sorry Jay’s suggestion would work too.
If your question is about copyrights, I don't know but people post auction company pictures all the time, giving the link or citing the source if they don't own the coin. However... I think it is a bad idea to post coins which are actively up for auction. This point has been discussed here many times. What if one of us is targeting that coin and you've just drawn more attention (and possibly more bidders) to it? If you have a question about a coin currently up for auction and the question just can't wait, ask your question by private message. Otherwise, just wait until the auction has finished and then ask your question.
Use a link, unless you have been granted permission or ownership. If anyone is interested they will go to it and look. Do not mention in a way a moderator might think you are trying to enhance or reduce the possibility of a sale in an auction. If it is yours, you will get a bad reaction. Use a link. If in doubt, PM a moderator ahead of time, not in the last hours or minutes, and ask. This type of action is not a promoted activity of the site, there are other sites on 'auctions'. Jim
