Multiple accounts. They buy lots of humble bundles for 1 cent each and activate them on several accounts. This allows them to unlock the basic winter objectives. Some guys I know have coal given to them for free even :S Don't ask me why that happens.
Ooh, that makes sense, cheaters! That also mean Number one prize (and probably many other prizes) are to go to cheaters too? Can steam do anything about that?
Douchebags like the ones with over 50 Coals are the ones that have like 30 steam users and they just do the free objectives eatch day.
Some people (like me) have good friends. (But I managed to get only 30 coals from them. :D)
They have multiple accounts. Dont mind about them, Steam started to ban them one by one http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:cSfwpKmeKjsJ:forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php%3Fgoto%3Dnewpost%26t%3D2389208+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us&client=firefox-a
There is also trading for coal (hence this site). When Bastion was on sale for 5 dollars someone traded me 21 coal for it, so for some money or good prizes it is possible to amass a large quantity of coal legitimately.
I see it now, thank all you guys for explaining.
Does it mean steam prizes are doomed?
Considering some people have collected over 600 coal, I think the chances of someone who is only getting coal through achievements winning are probably much lower.
Hi, Steam users! I'm curious how the other guys getting 200+ of Coal.
I own more than 100 games worth ~1500$ total. See calculator at http://www.steamcalculator.com/id/vipaware I have done around 37 objectives so far and just can't find out a way to get more coal. Currently I have less then 50 Coal.
If any of you know how to get more coal plz share, thanks!
Also look at my inventory if you need something (all tradable): http://steamcommunity.com/id/vipaware/inventory#753