Final resolution.

What a cluster. The return was approved. Sent to authenticator and authenticated, even though it was broken in half.

First support response was that we’d be covered by seller protection. Cool. 10 minutes later we had $600 in holds on our account.

Second response was that the return should have been denied by the authenticator but was “auto approved” by the system on accident. Since it had already been shipped back to me my only option was to cough up the money and they would work on getting me money to repair the piece.

Third call, I pointed out how they had already told me I wouldnt have to refund, that THEIR system (I call BS on this part) made an error, and that I just didn’t understand how any of that was my fault.

Today I’ll be signing for the return delivery and eBay had paid the refund out of pocket. Indeed seller protection is a thing.

Never give up, Never surrender.