Auction glossaryBidder Paddle Number: What It Is and Why You Get One
A bidder paddle number is the number an auction house assigns you when you register to bid. In a live room you raise a paddle printed with it; online it identifies you on bids and invoices instead of your name. Every lot you win is recorded against your paddle number.
How are paddle numbers used?
At a live auction, the auctioneer calls the winning paddle number and the clerk records each lot against it. After the sale, the house totals everything won on that number into one auction invoice. Showing a number instead of a name also keeps bidders private from each other.
What does a paddle mean on Auktia?
On Auktia, a paddle is simply called a bidder, and your paddle number is your bidder number. It's your bidder account: My bids holds your bids, what you're winning, watching and won, and your invoices and receipts. Sellers (auction houses) see the leading bidder on each item and can block a bidder from one auction or all of their auctions.
Questions people ask
How do I get a paddle number?
Register with the auction house before bidding, in person or online. Our first-time bidder checklist covers what to set up.
What do I need to get a paddle online?
Usually an account and a card on file. On Auktia you sign in with an email code or Google and add a card, which is checked with your bank; nothing is charged or held while you bid.
Is there a spending limit on a new paddle?
On Auktia, a new bidder can have up to $2,500 of bids and unpaid wins at once until they have paid an invoice online.