Where to Buy Used Mahjong Sets

Platform Comparison at a Glance

eBay

eBay has the largest selection of used mahjong sets anywhere online, from thrift-store quality to museum pieces. At any given time, you'll find hundreds of listings across all price ranges and eras.

Two buying formats are available: auction (lowest starting prices but uncertain final cost) and Buy It Now (fixed price, immediate purchase). Auctions can yield deals but require patience and strategy. Buy It Now offers convenience but typically at higher prices.

eBay's Money Back Guarantee provides strong buyer protection. If a set arrives not as described, you can request a return. This makes eBay safer than local marketplace purchases, though you still need to vet listings carefully.

Etsy

Etsy specializes in vintage and handmade items. Sellers tend to be more knowledgeable about their inventory, with better photography and more detailed descriptions than typical eBay listings.

Prices are generally higher than eBay, reflecting the curated nature and seller expertise. Expect to pay a premium for the vetting and presentation. Etsy enforces a 20-year minimum for items listed as 'vintage.'

Purchase Protection covers items that don't arrive or don't match their description. Shop reviews are prominent and helpful for vetting sellers.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace excels for local pickup purchases. You can inspect sets in person before buying, and there are no shipping costs. Prices tend to be lower than online marketplaces because sellers are often clearing out household items rather than running businesses.

The major downside is limited buyer protection for local transactions. If you pay cash and walk away, there's no recourse if you discover problems later. This makes in-person inspection essential.

Selection varies dramatically by location. Urban areas have more listings, but you might find hidden gems in suburban neighborhoods where an older generation is downsizing.

EBTH (Everything But The House)

EBTH specializes in estate sales, conducting on-site auctions with professional photography and descriptions. Items are typically authenticated and accurately described by staff with antiques experience.

The auction format means prices can go either way—sometimes below market, sometimes above as bidders compete. EBTH charges a buyer's premium (typically 20%) on top of the winning bid.

Returns are accepted for items not as described. Local pickup is available at their warehouse locations, or they'll ship nationwide.

Estate Sales (In-Person)

In-person estate sales often have the lowest prices for vintage mahjong sets. Estate sale companies typically price to move items quickly, and you can negotiate further on the sale's final day.

The challenge is finding sales that have mahjong sets. Use EstateSales.org or EstateSales.net to search listings in your area. Look for sales described as having 'games,' 'mid-century items,' or belonging to elderly sellers.

No buyer protection exists—all sales are final. However, you can examine items thoroughly before purchasing. Arrive early on the first day for best selection; wait until the final day for best prices.

Thrift Stores

Thrift stores (Goodwill, Salvation Army, local consignment shops) occasionally have mahjong sets at rock-bottom prices. Most sets are incomplete or in unknown condition, but gems do appear.

Success requires patience and frequent visits. Inventory changes constantly, and mahjong sets don't last long on shelves. Get to know restock schedules at your local stores.

Inspect carefully before purchasing. Open the case, count tiles, check backs for uniformity. Most thrift stores allow returns within a short window, but not all.