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Automated loop after receiving a counterfeit coin: How to reach a live agent for a policy override?
Summary: unclekeith68 seeks advice on contacting a live representative to address a return issue involving a counterfeit coin purchased online. They detailed the discrepancies in the coin's size and weight and expressed concern about returning the counterfeit item due to legal implications. wooden_flower provided steps to reach eBay customer service, including using specific keywords to bypass the automated system and request live assistance.
Hi everyone,
I need advice on reaching a live representative to resolve a return loop involving a confirmed counterfeit item.
I purchased what was listed as a 2026 "July 4th" privy mark U.S. Mint quarter. Instead of an authentic quarter, the seller sent an oversized base-metal replica. I documented the physical measurements:
Legal U.S. Quarter Specs: 24.26 mm diameter | 5.67 g weight
Delivered Item Specs: 38.10 mm (1.500 in) diameter | 26.78 g weight (stamped onto a silver-dollar sized planchet)
I have full photographic evidence showing the piece on a digital scale, inside a dial caliper, and alongside an authentic quarter with the original shipping label.
The seller has now issued a return label to a residential address. However, under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 485 / § 492) and USPS postal regulations, knowingly placing counterfeit coins into the postal system is illegal. Furthermore, returning it puts fraudulent goods back into circulation.
Every time I try using the automated assistant or Help pages to explain why I cannot mail counterfeit currency back, the chatbot runs in an endless loop and will not connect me to a human agent.
What is the most direct way right now to get a live eBay representative to review the photographic evidence and issue a manual override/refund? Any guidance from experienced buyers or eBay staff would be greatly appreciated.
wooden_flower
Mentor2 weeks ago@unclekeith68
Here's how to contact eBay general customer service.
1. CLICK THIS LINK:
https://www.ebay.com/help/contact?type=ContactUs&topicId=4000
2. Select a category that best matches your problem.
3. Answer the chat bots question by stating what you need help with.
4.Type AGENT ( you may have repeat steps 3 and 4)
5. Request a call back or live chat. (Note that the contact options vary depending on the topic and staffing availability)
Monday to Sunday 5:00 am to 09:30 pm PST
unclekeith68
OP2 weeks agoThank you! I was able to talk to a real person and it looks like my issue will be resolved quickly.