Russel.
50 cents a lb is most likely for raw rock, that means unspalled and sometimes unchecked for quality. I would not have it shipped unless you see it first. If you are going to craigs quarry it would pay you to stop and check out the tennesee altho it is a bit out of the way. I don't know Hal, but to many times I have bought some stone and it was crap. 500 lbs is a lot to ship unless he has access to a truck terminal and discount rates and can ship it in a drum. Will still cost you almost as much as the rock. if you ship it in Large flat rate boxes you would need probably 16-18 boxes at $15 each will still cost you 250 bucks now your stone is a dollar a lb and it still raw rock. Be sure you know what your getting in for. You might do better at a knap-in and pick it up there. You can see it and pick what you want your self.