Need some "collector" advice

[laocmo]

I've finally acquired a full set, plus a couple extras of early Colt 2nd generation black powder revolvers. They all are unturned and in the original boxes, some of which are rather ragged. Question 1: To preserve these guns and their value for the future, is it smart to invest in walnut presentation cases complete with authentic accessories and trash the old worn cardboard cases? Seems to some folks that the "original box" is important no matter what its condition. To others it could mean less. To me they are somewhat ugly and take up space. Question 2: Where is a good source for such presentation boxes, authentic flasks, etc.

Many thanks!

 

[Tommygunn]

Try www.dixiegunworks.com.
Also, I wouldn't throw out the boxes. Yeah they take up space but they might increase the worth of your gun just having it. You never know....

 

[Plink]

The boxes themselves add much to the collector value. I'd store them away somewhere safe. You can find display case accessories at Dixie Gunworks. They have a fair selection. Track of the Wolf might have them also.

 

[palongrifle]

Keep the boxes

If these pistols are as old as you say keep the boxes. The will bring up the value to the right collecter and there cool looking to. Get ahold of me if you want to sell them, I have a good friend who collects old Colt's.

 

[4v50 Gary]

Don't throw anything away.

The box should be stored separately from the gun. Get an acid free storage box. Line the bottom with PH netural tissue paper. Cushion around the box with the same paper. Crumple some paper and put it into the box to keep it from collasping. Then put some more PH neutral paper on top before you close the top.

The metal should be wiped clean of human oils and acids. Once cleaned, apply Rennaisance Wax to it. It's PH neutral and will protect the gun from rust and oils (which can stain the metal). Apply it also to the wood. Store both the gun box and the gun in a temperature controlled, humidity controlled environment.

 

[BigG]

As odd to a practically minded person as it sounds, the guys telling you to keep the box and docs are correct. On a real collector's gun the box may almost double the value. There have been cardboard boxes sold for $1,000 or more. No kidding. Look at coltforum.com for confirmation.

 

[Bad Flynch]

Well, I looked this up in the online Blue Book for you and here is the skinny:

Having the box does not add to the value. However, not having the box will subtract anywhere from $100 to $250 from the value. It just depends on the particualr guns that you have.

Adding a generic case and the generic-brand accessories will not really add much to the value. The only ones that have such value are those in original Colt cases with Colt accessories. Now, if you can locate original Colt accessories, then you might increase the value.

Hope that helps.