Apparently, This Ring's True

Despite some skepticism on Internet forums, a school official confirmed that a USC championship ring that surfaced on EBay "appears" to be the real deal. Although nobody at USC or the LA Times would be able to actually vouch for its authenticity, the seller is offering a 200% money-back guarantee. There are a few oddities though, like a mention that the ring came from an LSU player (probably an error from copy/pasting another eBay listing). You can buy it now for $7,500.

Part of the confusion comes from fans noticing that the ring on EBay doesn't match this photo essay done on WeAreSC.com. It turns out sometimes schools give rings, sometimes the bowl, and sometimes both.

The main ring on EBay, which features a black stone, appears to be the one issued by the Orange Bowl. USC issued one with a red stone. Photos of different styles are featured in the EBay ad, and may be just for comparison purposes -- or possibly not the actual ring so as to protect the original recipient's identity. If you're in the market, ask a few questions before plunking down that much cash. Caveat emptor.