Just to be clear, the purpose of writing this is not to chide resellers or to point fingers at bulk ordering collectors. To the resellers that can snag a bargain and then make a profit- more power to you, and I think it is great that collectors are willing to help each other out when tracking down pony items. It is just one of the qualities that make the Pony community so great. Where I'm finding issue (if there truly is one) is the origin of these ponies. Are they legally obtained?
I think it is strange that there are multiple unreleased pony items being sold sans packaging. While some of these items/designs may find their way to store shelves in the future, there are others that are clearly the product of factory mess-ups that were never intended for sale. An example of this is this Rainbow Dash:
Clearly, this was an "oops" moment. Rainbow Dash is supposed to have wings and she doesn't! Or this one:
Rarity ended up with Princess Celestia's hair colors. Oops!
Curious minds (mine included) are finding themselves wondering. Were people in China given these ponies to do what they please straight from the factory which is resulting in sellers trying to make a buck on online websites. Or are these items the product of factory workers sneaking product out the back door?
As a collector, I'll admit these oddities are a pretty awesome addition to any collection. At the same time, I find myself wondering if by buying these items I'm supporting illegal activity (a.k.a. stealing ponies.) The moral dilemma perpetuates.
If you have any thoughts or insight on this issue I'd love to hear it!
