Don't know much about smoking pipes, but from the looks of the items on Ebay Iv'e seen some of thes 3 for $10.00. Thats what happens when you don't do your research!
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying it is worth $29.50, but it does appear to actually be somewhat old. Pretty sure it's a Missouri Meerschaum, and the stem is very discolored. At least he's not selling a brand new one and saying vintage (IMO). Still a douche ... but could be worse.
Sorry if this thread is too old for a response, not quite sure what the appropriate etiquette is on that lol