Correct box a big deal?

[bushmaster1313]

At this stage of my accumulating career a "correct" box means nothing but the "original" serial numbered box means everything.

All of my recent collectible handgun purchases have had the box original to the gun (or at least it appears so from the end lable).

 

[bob1956]

It's as previously stated most likely a wooden box. I also have seen plated guns in a grey box. Good luck hunting for your box.

 

[03hemi]

When you are selling something from the early 80's would the factory box make a huge difference. What would the correct box be for a 27-2 Nickle 4".
Thanks in advance for the advice.

Correct box don't mean squat to most, the original box is something different and would make a difference to most.

 

[firefighterjohn]

Correct box don't mean squat to most, the original box is something different and would make a difference to most.

Exactly hemi. Seeing a used gun in a correct box doesn't make much difference to me when compared to the quality of the gun. Seeing one in a generic plastic case adds nothing to the value. It's like: "Oh ****...I gotta find something to carry it into the the LGS to show it was well taken care of...OK, I'll take this one."

 

[Green Frog]

IMHO, the box the gun originally came in adds some collectible value. Any other box, including a "correct box" is just a box. I will admit to returning tools to an otherwise original gun and box combination, but this was a special event. For me, most boxes just provide an additional challenge for storage, since I generally don't keep the guns in boxes. Of course, as with all things "your mileage may vary!"

Froggie

 

[JH1951]

I often pay a measurable 'premium' for a piece that is in the original box. Several I have picked up also have paperwork including the retail sales receipt. To me the 'completeness' factor increases the value and commands a higher price. My pieces are part of a collection of 1950 to 1980ish Chiefs Special pieces, not a safe full of shooters, and condition is the overriding factor. A box and documents is a big plus when purchasing a 95+% revolver.. I do have shooters and carry pieces where the box is not a factor at all and the box doesn't exist and never will. You will see me salivate a bit when I see a 1951 Chiefs Special in great condition sitting in its original shipping box.
I do understand that not everyone gives a hoot about condition and completeness. I am glad they don't or it would be much harder for me to scratch my itches.
For the OP, I would not try to find a box for a piece that will be going up for sale. Of late the prices of boxes seem to be skyrocketing, and I doubt that a 'period correct' (versus original) box would add value beyond what you would have to pay for it. The next owner can make that decision.

 

[rogerwnuss]

Original intact factory box with label and everything: Big plus!

Duplicate "period correct" box: Big yawn.

were there serial numbers somewhere on the wood box? And, general question, when did they stop putting nickel guns in a grey cardboard box with blue lettering?

 

[22hipower]

were there serial numbers somewhere on the wood box? And, general question, when did they stop putting nickel guns in a grey cardboard box with blue lettering?

No, no SNs on the wood boxes, as far as I know anyway. Some of the earlier cardboard boxes, maroon, gold, maybe other colors had the SNs in grease pencil on the bottom. I think the grey boxes for nickel guns stopped about 1985.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

 

[diyj98]

Correct box don't mean squat to most, the original box is something different and would make a difference to most.

I agree. I know one local conman that's always carrying S&W's around the gunshows "in the box!", but the box is never the original one. Often times the gun has had the grips replaced as well, but he'll tell you "don't think it's ever been fired!".

 

[larryofcc]

Correct boxes may be no big deal now, but as time drags on, look at what they are getting for the red 22 Outdoorsman boxes. Near $1000 and they are not going to be numbered to your gun.
Same with the old blue picture boxes for the RM's or the 38-44 Outdoorsman. Well over $1,000. Most of those boxes got thrown away as soon as the gun was taken out. They were all numbered boxes, but who cared.
Now, a matching box, from days gone by, with the original gun, brings a hefty premium.
The earlier the box, the more it is worth.
S&W s not making them any longer, so get them, while the getting is good. Big Larry

 

[raygixxer89]

I like to have the original (preferred) or at least the factory correct box for every gun I own - but that's just me. I have purchased guns that were absolutely gorgeous and pristine but came with no accoutrements. I have since purchased factory correct boxes for those separately as well as acquiring the period correct paper work and tool kits. Many others couldn't care less as long as the gun is good.

I only own one gun that does not have a box and that is an inherited Ruger Speed Six which I will be listing soon here on the Forum. Since I'm not a Ruger guy, I was never really interested in keeping it even though it is a very collectible version in 44 spl.

Personally I have payed a small premium for what I call a "complete gun" that not only looks pristine but comes with all the goodies. Soon after the purchase the price is forgotten but what I have lasts for ever. Again - many could not give a hoot about cardboard boxes and paper work. Your choice! As my Mother always said, there is a butt for every seat!

I had no idea that Ruger made a SS in 44spl. I have one in 9mm and a few Security Six revolvers. Git any pics of yours? I may be interested in buying it.

 

[drgbike]

Pristine box for Pristine gun, otherwise only usefull to sweeten the deal.

 

[rogerwnuss]

This whole box thing makes me think of a friend who used to have all his old Smith boxes on a shelf in his basement, about two feet off the floor, must have had fifty. Then, about 1990 we got a torrential rain, at the same time his sump pump decided to **** out........

 

[RRH]

^ Ouch! Most of my boxes; cardboard or plastic are in the attic. Not good for cardboard, I am sure. But, then I am only a shooter, not a collector.