The U-Con Auction

If you’ve ever wandered into a convention auction “just to peek,” you already know the truth: five minutes later you’re bidding on a long-out-of-print module with the intensity of a dragon guarding their hoard. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning regular, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy it and maybe score something legendary.

What is the U-Con Auction?

The auction is one of U-Con’s signature special events: an energetic, live sale of tabletop goodness where attendees consign games and game-adjacent items, and fellow fans find them new homes. It’s been a staple of U-Con for over 20 years.

When & where? The auction will be held on Saturday, November 15 at 1:00 PM in Auditorium 1. Even if you don’t win a bid, it’s a fun, spectator-friendly show. Sellers drop off items after 11 am, with the auction starting at 1 pm. While we do try to move through the items as quickly as possible, we want each item to be given a fair chance to be sold. The event schedule says the auction will end at 3pm, but 3:30 or later is more likely.

How buying works

• It’s live, fast, and friendly. Items go up one by one, the auctioneer keeps things moving, and the room does the rest.
• Sign up for a paddle.  We give you a sign with your bidder number so you can make your bids known to the auctioneer.
• Bring cash. The auction only accepts cash.  There’s an ATM in the hotel lobby if you need it. Also, smaller bills are always appreciated as it helps make payouts easier later.
• Pay at the end. You’ll settle up for your winnings after the auction concludes.  Keep your bidder number handy.

How selling works

Thinking about clearing shelf space? The U-Con Auction makes it easy:

• Simple consignment fee: U-Con charges $1.00 or 10% of the winning bid per item sold (whichever is higher). The proceeds from these fees are donated to a charity selected by the convention committee, so you’re supporting a good cause. You can also donate higher percentages, up to 100%. In 2024, proceeds benefited the charity Trans Lifeline. The 2025 character will be announced soon.
• Consider selling items in lots: The auction will only accept roughly 80 to 100 items. Combining items into small lots not only makes them more desirable, but also helps keep the auction moving.
• Paperwork: Fill out an auctions slip for each lot and an overall seller list. Label your items clearly; include the edition, language, condition notes, and whether inserts or promos are present. Clear info builds trust and bids. Also, creative or funny descriptions sometimes help. Some lots are often sold with the tagline “just trying to pay for the cost of the plastic totes.”
• Get in the queue early: Lots are run in the order items are submitted. Earlier submissions mean earlier in the auction. If you’ve got high-interest items, submitting ahead of time helps them shine.
• Collect payments after the auction: Pick up your payments and unsold items in the auction room. If you cannot pick them up, they will be held at registration until registration closes on Saturday. Unclaimed payments will be donated to the charity, and all unclaimed items will be donated to the Games Library!

What sells well? Complete board games in good condition, RPG books and boxed sets (especially out-of-print), minis lots, accessories, and quirky curios that spark nostalgia.

FAQ

Do I need a badge to attend the U-Con Auction?

Yes.

Do I need a ticket?

Tickets are free! While tickets are not required, they are a helpful reminder for when the auction is happening so you don’t accidentally schedule something during that slot.

Can I look at items in advance, or as the auction is happening?

Items will be on display and can be previewed before the auction begins. However, items cannot be opened to prevent damage or loss of components since they are sold as-is. Once the auction starts, previews are prohibited.

Does U-Con permit sellers to place a reserve price on an auction item?

A reserve price is the minimum price a seller will accept for a lot. The seller can specify a reserve price for each lot on the auctions slip.

What happens if I need to leave early?

In case you need to leave for a game or other reasons, turn in your paddle to one of the volunteers and we will settle your account as best we can. Unsold lots will be held at registration until registration closes on Saturday. All unclaimed payments will be donated to the charity, and all unclaimed items will be donated to the Games Library!

Where can I find updates?

Watch our website and sign up for our email list!

Final word

The U-Con Auction is a place where a dusty grail gets a second life, where friends and strangers become rivals looking for deals and steals. Whether you’re bidding, selling, or just soaking it in, pencil in that Saturday slot and come be part of it.

For more specific details about the auction, go to Auction – U-Con Gaming Convention. If you have any further questions, Contact Us – U-Con Gaming Convention.