Where to sell my dad's CW firearms?

[Wraith_3]

Does anyone have any good suggestions for where I could sell my dad's Civil War guns? I've looked at some auction sites like Gunbroker, but from what people have told me, trying to sell things on there would be hit or miss because I wouldn't have any feedback. The only advice I've gotten previously is gun shows or CW shows, but I can't really afford to rent a space, sit there all day, and then possibly not sell anything. The only luck I've had is people buying other CW on ebay who asked about other items, then sold them off ebay.

[72psb]

I would try "Rock Island Auctions" Rock Island ,Il. Very reputable. Look up their web site. You will be impressed with their past auctions.

[Paul70]

I'm in the same position. My dad had some Confederate marked weapons. Need someone who really knows their stuff. Keep us informed. 

[mdk0911]

hello - do you have any pictures of the antique guns to share?  what feedback would you like to get from an auction house? 

I have sold on gunbroker and never have not sold an item - depends on the gun, condition and the price you want

 

 

mike  

[dunmore1774]

My 2 cents......It really depends on the weapon/condition, etc.   If it is a rare piece or in extraordinary condition, then I would say Rock Island. However if it is a common weapon in less than mint condition, I would stick to local auctions  or post here.   Rock Island gets primo money for primo guns, anything less, people are looking for deals on common items and you are paying a premium to the auction house.   They are pre-1898 weapons, so legally not a firearm and free to sell without FFL etc.

[ludwigh1980]

Rock island would be the last auction house I would send to. Bonham, Poulin Auctions, Centurion, Cowan's all would be better auction houses.

[The Iron Brigade]

It would be helpful if we had some idea of what type of Civil War firearms you want to sell.

[Wraith_3]

Thanks for all the suggestions. The firearms we have left are 1859 Sharps Carbine, 3rd model Burnside (with soldier's initials carved in), Remington 1858 New Army Revolver, Starr Model 1863 Revolver, and 1851 Colt Navy Revolver (has non matching Colt London barrel). So there's nothing super rare besides the Burnside having initials. The two carbines my dad has noted as very good/fine condition, according to him. They are really nice. The pistols have some wear, but are in good shape. I don't know what the board rules are regarding selling firearms, so if anyone is interested send me a message and I'll send you my email.

[skautdog]

Will Gorges at Battleground Military Antiques, Inc. is a reputable dealer with whom I have done business and fully recommend.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (252) 636-3039

[Wraith_3]

Thanks, I am aware of him as my dad bought some items from him. Right now I'm trying to avoid dealers if I can because I know they have to make money so they can't always pay what they are actually worth. I've sold a handful to people who bought other CW items from us on ebay and asked what else I had. Trying to sell the rest is like pulling teeth!

[AustinO]

This show is coming up in a few weeks, could always get a table and try and sell the remaining items there: https://chicagocivilwarshow.com/

[Ivydiv]

The big Civil War show in Mansfield, Ohio is coming up the 1st week of May. 2nd largest CW show in the country. 7 buildings and outside setups. This would be a great place to try and sell your collection. Dave

[Ivydiv]

The Civil War show is this Saturday and Sunday in Mansfield, Ohio. A great place to sell your collection. Worth the trip. Dave

[268th C.A.]

Better do a little research before dumping a collection. good  in  your endeavors .

[Ivydiv]

If he goes to the show, he should be able to see similar items for sale and should be able to judge from the prices what value they have. All be it the prices at the show are probably a little high as they are for sale from dealers. Still would provide a good start for pricing his collection. Dave

[Wraith_3]

I'm pretty knowledgeable on the firearms, but yeah I have done research. I have been to the Mansfield show a couple times with my dad and the only downside to any gun show is that you would have to pay a fee for a table. If you don't sell anything you're just out that $100 or so. I have taken a couple to a local gun show (while walking around) and everyone just wants to paw all over them and aren't actually interested in buying.

[AustinO]

Well, walking around a show you're mostly going to get approached by dealers (with tables) - who would be looking to flip an item for a profit.  By sitting behind a table you're going to get a visit from everyone who enters the show and just might be looking for that item for their collection.  Either way, I would be prepared to not get "market value" for your items if you do truly want to move the collection.