The American Embassy in Israel is holding an unprecedented online auction for the public, including thousands of items, some from the homes of the ambassador and other officials

For the first time in its history, the US Embassy in Israel has decided to place thousands of its second-hand items on sale—direct to the public.

Part of the massive collection available online includes used furniture from the homes of Ambassador Dan Shapiro and other American officials and delegates, as well as the embassy compound.

Among the goods placed on the auction block are a number of living room sets, dining room sets, cabinets, dressers, beds and mattresses.

The US Embassy is also looking to off-load a scooter, a Subaru and a long line of electrical appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, washing machines, ovens, generators, vacuums, air conditioning units and a variety of office supplies and equipment.

The items all have one thing in common: They are property of the US government. According to American law, all embassies must offer second-hand equipment for sale after it has been worn out or replaced.

Until now, the American Embassy has tended to sell mostly to vendors who would take a commission and offer the goods to the public. This time, the embassy decided to sell directly to the Israeli public and allow it to place bids online for a range of goods, and has even posted a catalog, with photographs, of everything on sale.

By Itamar Eichner, YNetNews