I have no definitive proof that these mutts are brass, however there is absolutely no signs for aging or 'patina' on these. I'm talking trumpet, trombone, tuba BRASS coloring. I searched for a simple test that would confirm my opinion. I found one but it involved a drop of rather aggressive acid. I passed on it since I was making the attempt to rectify the situation and get the less-than-reputable individual to repent his fraudulent sins. Now I think I'll have to find that test again....The ones that were made in Italy were not made of brass? Thank you! My point exactly! These are brassy brass, brass, brass. Clack, clang, clink, clunk. Zinc, zinc, zinc.
I went through a situation recently that required a return but it was such a pain and even after an Ebay dispute would've cost me shipping to send them back. In my case there was nothing wrong with the item except it was a different model than ordered. In the end I found it easier to sell them outright by myself. Having seen this listing in question on Ebay and what you paid, I think you could probably get that out of them on Craigslist. Just list them as "student cymbals" when you do. Someone will buy them and you can move on.