Abstract: An on-line auction method enables a seller to sell multiple like-items with a single auction by (a) offering an item for auction that is to be sold to the winning bidder at the end of the auction, (b) promptly communicating a post-auction offer to non-winning bidders and non-bidding viewers to purchase an additional quantity of like-items within a short first acceptance period following the auction, (c) upon the expiration of the first acceptance period, extending a second offer to non-winning bidders to purchase a like-item within a longer second acceptance period; and (d) extending a third offer to purchase an additional quantity of like-items to bidders and non-bidding viewers who have accepted a post-auction offer.

Abstract: A novel on-line auction is disclosed which defines a very short initial time in which the auction on a particular item is to take place; preferably 5 minutes or less. The auction closes at the end of the period, with the highest bidder obtaining the object (subject to any reserve or minimum bid requirements which are preferably lacking). If, however, a bid is received during a pre-defined end portion of the initial period that is known to the bidders, the auction period is extended for a short supplemental period. Thereafter, the process is preferably repeated, with a bid during a known pre-defined end portion of the then-existing supplemental period causing the auction to be extended for another supplemental period. This cycle repeats itself until no bid is received during the end portion of the then-existing supplemental period.