Taxing casual sales was until recent times a technicality, but never enforced. Flea markets, "cash only" barber shops and similar venues, yard sales, auto sales, crop sales (roadside produce stands) were all left alone by the IRS. Today, with everything monitored, tracked, and required on the internet, the loopholes are closing.
My father-in-law is very anal about "capital gains", and has dutifully reported anything he sells. Actually, he usually gives it away, warning his kids and anyone that listens that "you cannot sell that [old bike, antique dresser] without reporting capital gains!" I've heard him for 30 years, and always ignored the worry. But when you are ID'd and tracked online, it's much easier for the IRS to force your hand (and their outstretched hand).
My point is for as long as we've had sales tax (not that long really), 90% of the people don't pay it, and no one every noticed.
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