I was recently “BONED” by the undesirables in Connecticut after a decade of purchases totalling well over six figures.
A quick 3k worth of immediate ill gotten gain was worth more to these geniuses than a long commercial relationship plus any future purchases.
Funny how “Like New”, “Original” and “Virtually Unfired” means different things to different people.

To the OP,
Buy Vintage from a reputable dealer or private party. Just my .02.