Sale query.

[PYLdude]

Note: I don't know if I should use spoiler tags here, so I'll apologize in advance if I run afoul.

I was watching some old Sale episodes on the Tube last night and I came across Crystal Miller's premiere. The champion she knocks off leaves with a little under $37K.

The champ in question is James Reynolds, who appeared the week after Tim Holleran got the lot and took three wins. Now, that brings me to my question: aren't those figures somewhat off? I seem to remember James doing a lot of buying back when he was on the show the first time (in fact, I think we established the reason for his coming back in the first place was because Jim screwed up an Instant Bargain). Unless he had to forfeit his previous winnings to xome back, I find it hard to believe he only won about $1,000 worth of tchotchkies in his first run.

[TLEberle]

It would be interesting to go back because I think most of that period is still extant and in weekly straps as uploaded by sotcfan2003 (or some number, forgive me.) Michael Friedman spent up like a boss and hauled away $18,000; Lynne Lucas won eight grand in stuff despite being denied her major prize.

[PYLdude]

See, that's why the shopping element to me was so good. You always had to keep in mind where you stood as you played along. Unfortunately it could also result in you leaving the show with significantly less dinero if you went far and got beat, but that was the whole beauty of it.

Whereas the era of the Winners Board's main goal was "just win baby". Not the worst thing, but not as tense because you know you can get something cool at any time. Sure, the closer you get to the end the more intense it gets, but at least before the bigger prizes were something to build up to rather than luck of the draw items.