They are NOS they don't even manufacture coated HPS lamps here anymore, there is nothting wrong with them, they just want to get rid of them, in fear they will not sell in the future......
They're basically giving them away. If they make them free, that's an invitation for trouble, but make it a few bucks a piece and they avoid the disposal charge.
They contain mercury, so if they can't sell them, they have to PAY to dispose of them as a commercial hazardous waste generator. Some states allow consumers to dispose of CFLs in the trash or have a place that take 'em for free. It is usually unlawful in most states for large businesses to dispose of mercury containing lamps in the trash with a huge EPA fine to go with it and they're usually not eligible for free disposal from municipalities.
If they don't sell, they have to pay disposal + shipping. If you buy them below cost, you pay shipping and they don't deal with haz-mat disposal.