Colt Diamondback value

[FJC]

Today I bought a used 2.5" Colt Diamondback in .38 Special. Gorgeous condition, not a mark on it, with fabulous bluing. It really looks like it's unfired, or if it was fired it sure wasn't much (no rings on the cylinder face, etc). Lockup is tight as a drum. Came with the original box, warranty card, and even the receipt of the person that originally bought it (one owner before me, he purchased it in May of 1970). Serial number is D333xx.

The only thing I suspect was changed on it were the grips, which are a hard rubber (I assume Diamondbacks came with wood grips?).

Any idea what this is worth? I'd like to hear some estimates before I reveal what I paid.

 

[Harry Paget Flashman]

I got a used 4" model 2 1/2 years ago from a guy who sold off the collection he inherited from his father. I paid $400 for it. It was in excellent shape. I'm happy with the deal.

 

[Gordon]

Minimum $650 here and more likely $800+

 

[Lone_Gunman]

I got a used 4" model 2 1/2 years ago from a guy who sold off the collection he inherited from his father. I paid $400 for it. It was in excellent shape. I'm happy with the deal.

You ought to be happy because you got away with near-theft.

A LNIB Colt Diamondback would be worth $600+ in Georgia.

 

[FJC]

Wow - I figured I was getting a good price, but this may be the best deal I've ever fallen into...

I bought it from a local shop, where it was on consignment for the owner. Walked out of there with it for only $350! I had actually seen it a good week ago in the case, but resisted. Was surprised to see it was still there today, so after checking it out I quickly slapped down the money. Glad I did!

 

[Kurac]

Last one I saw was $700 and not so nice, it lasted a couple of weeks before being bought.

 

[22-rimfire]

I saw some last weekend in the $650 price range. No box. You got a very good deal. Now you need to find a set of original combat stocks for it. These are the slim walnut stocks vs the fat target stocks you see on the 4" and 6" Diamondbacks.

 

[rbert0005]

They are going for around a grand my way.

Good score,
Bob

 

[Majic]

By not having the original stocks then forget the collector's price as it becomes a shooter. Your $350 still sounds like a decent deal. Original stocks (the service panels) in like new condition could run you $100+ if you find them.

 

[snowling]

Fascinating

This is fascinating. I have been holding on to a Colt Diamondback that was manufactured in the late 1970's. It is blue, has a 4-inch barrel, the orignal wood grips and is in excellent condition. I used it very little. I am considering selling it and I think that I was about to ask too little for it. Thanks.

 

[22-rimfire]

The 22's sell for more than the 38spl DB's. Value depends on many things, but finish, barrel length, and caliber are the more important when in as-new condition. How is your DB configured?

 

[Ala Dan]

A'round $650 is 'bout right, here in BamaLand~!

 

[snowling]

Colt Diamondback

Mine is a 38-special.