Banner advertising on the board?

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Posted By: Robert Lifson

I have discussed this with Leon and just want to go on the record to say that if I had my choice, I’d much prefer there to be no banner ads on the forum. To me, the board would be a very different place if there were this type of advertising, especially by auction houses who would likely be the most interested advertisers. One of the special qualities of the board in my eyes is that the board is totally independent with reference to advertising. Without advertising, it may be as close to a level playing field for all subjects that are discussed as is possible. Anything that would potentially compromise this independence or even give the appearance of undermining impartiality I would find to be a very undesirable change. If banner advertising is implemented, I’m sure the board would still be great, but I do believe that something special would be lost and I think that should at least be recognized. The old board, in my eyes, would no longer exist, and would be replaced by something that looks very similar, but is commercial, and in this subtle way is very different. There are pluses and minuses to every action. I did make a suggestion to Leon that I thought might have merit: Keep the board free of banner ads but charge companies to have their links on the vintage links page. In this way, a modest charge would add up because there are so many companies, and the site would not change at all (except a few links might come down of companies that don’t find any value in being listed). I don’t believe there is a right or wrong answer to banner ads, and if the board is owned by Leon (which I believe is accurate) then of course it is his to do with as he pleases, but since we have been asked for feedback, I am just providing my personal opinion. I have nothing against free enterprise but also have always had the feeling that the board belonged to everyone and part of its power was that it was not beholden to any special interests. The board has a special place in the collecting community. I’d like to see it protected from anything that might threaten it. Leon, we all appreciate the work you do. Though I don’t feel the same way you do regarding this potential change in direction, I hope that whatever changes are made if any turn out to be very positive.

Sincerely,

Robert Lifson
President
Robert Edward Auctions LLC
www.RobertEdwardAuctions.com