... but to me (and I'm sure others) it's an indication of value.

You posted; "I start every auction at 99c, including those that end at $thousands." Question; Would you ship an item that ends in "$thousands" for a mere $3.49? Obviously the seller is not expecting much for his so-called "rare" item if he's going to ship for only $3.49. Do you think the item offered is "rare"?