Price Check on a Registered Magnum

[epidoc]

At the Reno gunshow I saw a Registered Magnum made in 1937. It had a six inch barrel, and correct grips. The seller had the factory letter. The letter stated the gun had been returned to the factory in the late 1950's and completely refinished. The asking price was $4500. I know Registered magnums are a hot seller, but I was wondered if this was a reasonable price for refinished pistol.

 

[epidoc]

At the Reno gunshow I saw a Registered Magnum made in 1937. It had a six inch barrel, and correct grips. The seller had the factory letter. The letter stated the gun had been returned to the factory in the late 1950's and completely refinished. The asking price was $4500. I know Registered magnums are a hot seller, but I was wondered if this was a reasonable price for refinished pistol.

 

[m-1911]

You are correct that RM's are hot sellers, bu I think that $4500 for a refinished gun is on the high side (quite a bit on the high side) especially since it seems to be a garden variety model

 

[Art Doc]

Cop gun? These were routinely returned for refinishing. Many had the pre-war stocks thrown out and the current style installed. I think mine may have the hammer replaced at that time, too.

In my totally non-expert opinion the price sounds high. To get up at that level I think people look for original finish, more popular barrel lengths, etc. But you are the one looking so you have to decide what it's worth to you. If it goes unsold for a week or so make an offer. All he can do is say no. Well, I guess he could yell and cuss and say no. I've had that happen a couple of times.

 

[Onomea]

Just as a reference point for you, I bought a 4" 1939 RM in high condition in the spring of 2005 for $4K plus $300 for Ropers. While percents are subjective, few would argue, I think, with the 98% it was described as being. It was refinished at the factory in 1960, and I think without the date markings on the gun few would know that it has been refinished. It's a beaut.
I think it was a fair price, and I'm happy.

I subsequently traded the Roper's to a friend. Here's a more recent pic, this one with Keith Brown's beautiful reproduction Ropers: