I have had good success with buying pins on ebay. I've had good success with other outlets, too (Pynball.com and CL). BUT, you must TALK to the seller before you buy. That applies to any remote pin purchase, or any other high dollar item. Photos are great/fine but to me but the character of the seller is really where the rubber hits the road. How can you tell if a seller is 'honest' and accurately representing to you the condition of what they're selling? That's hard to put into words. But in my experience, the honest folks are usually very forthright and display a willingness (eagerness?) to do whatever they can to answer your questions and show you exactly what you're buying, its condition, its shortcomings and so on. They not only want to sell the item but they also make it clear that they want you to be happy with your purchase. If you can't get that level of comfort, my advice is to stay away. But if you can, then buy with confidence. Sorry for the lengthy post. Just trying to be helpful.