Number: RL34707 Title: Auction Basics: Background for Assessing Proposed Treasury Purchases of Mortgage-Backed Securities Authors: D. Andrew Austin, Government and Finance Division Abstract: This report provides information on the uses, design, and functions of auctions. It reviews some common types of auctions used by the federal government and some of the complexities of auction design that the Secretary will have to deal with in the TARP. Pages: 14 Date: October 14, 2008