2026-03-18 - Caveat Emptor

“Caveat Emptor”. I’m sure that you’ve heard the term before in one language or another. It’s Latin for “Buyer Beware”. There is no limit as to what scammers will try to do to fleece you out of your hard earned dollars. As time goes on, they get more sophisticated in their efforts. But don’t forget about the simple ones too. Let me share some experiences with you.

I recently attended an antique show in Red Deer, Alberta. At one of the tables, I spotted two tintype photographs, each measuring about 2 x 3”. I bargained with the vendor and we settled on a fair price. After paying for them, he asked if I’d like them put in a bag. As they weren’t in holders I thought a bag would help protect them better than stuffing them in my pocket, so I said yes. The vendor produced a plastic grocery bag in which he placed the photos. He folded the bag nicely, and wished me a good day while handing it to me. All was well, I thought.

I met up with my family a few minutes later. Thankfully, they asked to see my new treasures. Happily, I unwrapped the bag to show them, only to discover one of the tintypes missing. We searched the immediate area thinking it fell on the floor. When I couldn’t find it, I began to think I’d been swindled. I immediately went back to the suspected offender. Imagine my surprise, and then anger, to see my missing purchase proudly sitting on the table, up for sale again. The vendor palmed the tintype while placing them in the bag! (I guess he must have thought the agreed price wasn’t so fair after all.) We exchanged a few harsh words and I retrieved my lost prize. I thank my family for their curiosity in my hobby, otherwise I wouldn’t have discovered the loss until after I returned home.

Some time ago at another antique show, this time in Edmonton, I had occasion to buy a roll of size 122 Kodak film in a sealed package. Several months later, I decided to display the film beside a camera, so I opened the package. What I found inside was a wooden stick, similar in size and weight to a roll of film. I re-examined the package and could barely discern any signs of tampering. Someone had gone to a lot of trouble to scam $5!

Now I’m not saying that everyone out there is trying to cheat you, or that antique shows are full of crooks. I have made multiple purchases without incident. What I am saying is “Occasio facit furem” (opportunity makes a thief). Be aware out there, and take that opportunity away from them!

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