What does size 2/17 mean?

[stefcap]

I am watching an auction on ebay and am not sure if I should buy it or not.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...MEWA:IT&ih=006

What would 2/17 equal in regular knitting gauge?

Also it says machine knitting yarn, but could I also hand knit with it? My boyfriend wants me to knit him the Double Helix Seaman scarf in Hunter green, and I found that yarn.

Should I get it or what?

Thanks