Auctions

Maybe it is based on results on previous auctions? On the Downies auction website there is a tab up the top for prices realised.

http://www.downies.com/aca/pages/realised.asp

Perhaps this helps?

Gemma.

I would say their estimates are way off on a lot of items. I have bid in many of their auctions, always via postal bid as it is difficult to actually make it to the auction. Often I have bid double the estimate and not won. But then again, what I normally bid on are difficult items to find. Auction results will often show the more common items at or close to estimates.
If you aren't already on their mailing list for the auction catalogue, register for it. I believe they have recently changed their rules a little and you will have to bid regularly on items to receive the catalogue for free. Otherwise I think you have to pay for it now.

Noble is also holding their auction next month I believe. I have won a few items from them, always for my maximum bid. Co-incidence......?

Other times the auctioneer just sooting banks until reaches your max bid.