Thanks for the responses! The auction has 6 days to run, I am going to keep an eye on it and report back. So far, the bidding is subdued.
There are too many questions about this coin for me to feel comfortable buying it. Even if I could purchase it cheaply, that in itself would serve as a commentary on the questionable nature of this piece. That is unlikely anyway, as I expect bidding will heat up at some point. It is an attractive coin and a scarce date, so I am sure there will be action. As for
ebay protecting me if it is a fake: maybe so, I have no experience with that, but ye have little faith in them.
I will keep you all posted. Who knows, maybe I will become brave and buy it!