General revolver values?

[Dino44]

CSN, last night I checked GB completed auctions for the model 27-2, 6" models in what appeared to be in equivalent condition as described by your friend. There were 3 examples, 1 nickel plated sold for $971 with unmarked blue box, 2 blue examples, one with presentation case & tools the other was gun only. They sold for $900 and $874.69. These were all recent transactions.
Today I went gun store hopping. One shop had two mint condition model 19-3's with 4" barrels. One had box and papers that I could see, and the other was gun only with smooth target stocks. Both were priced in the upper $900 dollar range. Both were on consignment, so prices are probably negotiable. One shop had a 4" 686-3 that was priced at $799.99.

 

[CSN]

CSN, last night I checked GB completed auctions for the model 27-2, 6" models in what appeared to be in equivalent condition as described by your friend. There were 3 examples, 1 nickel plated sold for $971 with unmarked blue box, 2 blue examples, one with presentation case & tools the other was gun only. They sold for $900 and $874.69. These were all recent transactions.
Today I went gun store hopping. One shop had two mint condition model 19-3's with 4" barrels. One had box and papers that I could see, and the other was gun only with smooth target stocks. Both were priced in the upper $900 dollar range. Both were on consignment, so prices are probably negotiable. One shop had a 4" 686-3 that was priced at $799.99.

Ahh, Thank You. Those are the best realistic examples I've seen so far.

 

[jaydoc]

Maybe just show him this thread and see where it lands…..

 

[jcelect]

To the OP! FIRST, you must decide which class of buyer you fall into. Are you a collector, a collector/shooter, or just plain shooter?
A collector will usually pay a premium for his choices which probably include all the accessories that were with the gun from the factory. The condition of the gun is also very important to him.
A collector/shooter will look at guns with less accessories, a little wear, probably have aftermarket grips, and more importantly, the selling price.
A shooter will consider the functionally his most important factor.
The term vintage (IMHO) should not be used in regard to firearms! Vintage is usually used in reference to age! An example: would you call an I frame 32 Hand Ejector made in the 30's vintage, a pre model 30/31 made post war vintage or a model marked 30/31 made in 1960 vintage? All are correct, because each type of gun is from that particular "vintage".
Another factor for you to consider is the number of a particular model ever made. The model 27 you mentioned was introduce in 1935 as the 357 Magnum in many barrel lengths. A model 36-1 3" heavy barrel w/adjustable rear sight made in 1975 with 213 ever produced will command a higher price than many model 27 variations.
jcelect

 

[Belgium1961]

In Belgium, a model 10/4, bull barrel 4 inch in mint condition you can get for 200 tot 250 dollar.

 

[Thiokol]

If the "Special Order" is on the box label with a number underneath, it's the Julian calendar date of manufacture or shipment. It does not mean that the revolver has any special features.

 

[LittleAugieMo]

I use "Worth Point" to ck completed sales mostly because the show sale date,sale price. The photos are generaly pretty good and if there is any shipping or buyers premium involved it is show in the listing.
Prices you quoted seem to be at high retail at least to me.

 

[CSN]

Wow, there have been some really good responses here!

jcelect; good point.

I fall between the first and second on your list. My reality: I love guns. I love having them. Do I shoot a lot? Nope. 100 rounds across all calibers a year is probably my average. However, I have expendable cash, and I figure that having guns is maybe better than cash, at least within reason. Do I have the means to go out and buy Billy the Kid's gun? Not by a long shot. Can I go drop $2k on something I like, and that has a chance of increasing in value? Yup. Can I just hold it and not shoot it? Yup. Already have several like that.

I understand the "Box & Papers" mentality. I agree with that part.

Thiokol; interesting. So I can see how "special order" wouldn't necessarily add and interest, other than knowing exactly when it was made.

i'd be reluctant to show him this thread and "see where it lands". I don't think it'd land in a great spot.

 

[toddimusnimski]

i'd be reluctant to show him this thread and "see where it lands". I don't think it'd land in a great spot.

I wonder if the sellers wife strongly encouraged him to pare down his collection, and by inflating their cost he could honestly say that he couldn't find any buyers.
"Things that make you go hmmm..."

Todd

 

[Bob Smalser]

Do saved searches on Invaluable and Proxibid estate auction collators and be patient. One will come along for under 500. Be prepared to add 100-150 in fees, taxes and shipping, but you will still beat anywhere else. You do best on the tail end of large auctions after the residents have gone home. Last weekend I won a 95% pre-Model 10 that arrives tomorrow for around 500 to my door. The sad part is there was a 98% pre-Model 14 right behind it from the same collection that went for the same price, but I didn't want to give the wife a heart attack. If you don't have a C&R, then get one, and check the auction house special terms to insure they will accept them, as not all will.

 

[bigggbbruce]

Sooo. I don't want to offend my friend on price, and I have no issue paying his price if it's realistic. But I just don't know if they are.

At those prices he apparently doesn't want to sell them.

 

[Model29-26.5]

Yeah, I think we've reached a consensus. Little high. I'd love to check gunbroker, but those idiots refuse to unlock my account. I do have one, but I'm not allowed to use it. They say my info "looks suspicious", or something and want a whole bunch of further personal info, which they won't be getting. And without that, you don't get to see completed auctions.

If there are a few specific items you’d like to know the final hammer price… I can look them up for you.

 

[Model29-26.5]

In Belgium, a model 10/4, bull barrel 4 inch in mint condition you can get for 200 tot 250 dollar.

OK… how about a Model 29-2? 25-5?
27-2? 19-3?
Belgium prices??
My interest was just peaked…