Michael Jackson Memorabilia and Commemoratives - Better Business Bureau Issues Warning

When a popular celebrity dies suddenly, inevitably a great deal of memorabilia quickly appears on eBay and other websites online. Sellers of this type of memorabilia seem to be always ready to cash in on a deceased celebrity's popularity. Since there is a usually a huge demand for the celebrity's memorabilia at that time, sellers are able to charge buyers significantly higher prices for these items. Such is the case with the recent death of Michael Jackson.

The Better Business Bureau has advised the public that most of the Michael Jackson memorabilia now being sold online is overpriced and that the price of these items will likely decrease in the coming months.

The Better Business Bureau also states that before his death, an average of 200 to 400 Michael Jackson memorabilia items were listed on eBay. The morning after his death there were 20,000 items on sale.

In addition to the memorabilia, since the death of Michael Jackson, commemorative items bearing his face and name are currently being mass produced and sold to the public, also at exaggerated prices. These items may include commemorative plates, t-shirts and special edition magazines. Since these items are mass produced and will not be considered rare, they will generally not increase in value and may well decrease just like the memorabilia.

Better Business Spokesperson, Steve Cox compared Michael Jackson commemoratives to those of the late Princess Diana. He stated "Following the death of Princess Diana, the market was flooded with mass produced items commemorating her death including special edition Beanie Babies that at one time sold for more than $100 but are now on garage sale tables for a buck."

The Better Business Bureau also has some additional recommendations regarding the purchase of Michael Jackson memorabilia and commemoratives and all other online purchases.

You should verify that the item is genuine. Ask the seller any questions you may have about the item, especially where he acquired it. If it is stated that the item is a limited edition, it does not necessarily mean that it will increase in value.

It is best to purchase your item with a credit card. If there is a problem with the sale, you are able to issue a charge back against the charge and your account will be credited.

Purchase from a seller with a good reputation. If you are considering buying an item on eBay, you can research the seller's history on the site. You can also read their feedback comments from other eBay users.

For additional information, please see the Better Business Bureau website at http://www.bbb.org/us/