Hey guys. Just wanted to give a first hand update on the auction.
I won the Scout Trooper with Speeder Bike PF. It's numbered 5/1500. I was told that this piece in particular was owned by Sideshow purely for archival purposes. Apparently Sideshow always keeps one or two of every piece they produce.
Although the auction was placed through Ebay, I was able to pay with my credit card outside of Ebay so I could earn purchase points. Fortunately I didn't have to pay any Paypal fees.
I was given my choice of shipping option and opted to go with DHL because it was about $70 cheaper than FedEx.
It arrived in great condition. The piece is absolutely mint with no damage or QC issues. Old School Sideshow for sure!
As an added bonus, I was given a nice certificate of authenticity which Sideshow only does for auctions like this.
I'm so stoked to own this piece. It's honestly my favorite Star Wars collectible and probably the best Star Wars PF ever made.