SENDING MY COLLECTION TO AUCTION

[George Lander]

For several reasons I am seriously considering sending my 50+ year old gun & edged weapon collection to auction. I would really appreciate any input from the members here on the best company to do this with. My collection includes @ 100 long guns (20 or so Parkers) 25 pistols & 20 or so knives & swords. What should be the Seller's Fee & who to deal with at the auction house?

Best Regards, George

[Phillip Reynolds]

info@jamesdjulia.com
contact Wes Dillon
James D. Julia, Inc.
203 Skowhegan Rd.
Fairfield, ME 04937
USA

[Bill Murphy]

I've been taking my stuff to Redding Auction in Gettysburg, PA. Low commission and NO BUYER'S PREMIUM. They give a nice itemized receipt, but no internet access to previous auctions that I know of. Their next gun auction is September 9. The list and pictures are on the website now. Check them out. I dropped off a load today and they asked me when the Parkers are coming.

[Jim DiSpagno]

George, I find that the Bigger Auction Houses stack the deck in their favor and do not have the sellers best interest at heart. This is only my observation but I would look for smaller auction houses with online bidding access and send small groups to them so as not to flood the market and depress prices for yourself and others. Good luck Jim

[John Allen]

Jim's point is good advice.You don't want to drop 100 guns into an already diluted market. Breaking them down into small mixed groups will bring more money and will be much easier to manage.Keep us informed and good luck.

[todd allen]

The good news is, you couldn't find too many better places to put your money over a 50 year period than in fine guns.

[Mike Franzen]

George you should consider posting the Parker's here for a few days before shipping them out. Btw ... tell Billy I said hi.

[Bill Anderson]

If it were my collection, I would talk to a few auction houses such as Julia, Amoskeag, Redding and the like, getting details on selling fees to receive the maximum return for all the work that was put in over the 50 years of collecting, but not on this site. Selling any of your guns here limits them only to members which you probably know many on a first name, or nickname, basis so you will probably feel obligated to give a 3 day return policy. You want to place them in an environment, whether the whole collection or part of it at a time, to reach as many eyes as possible with no connection at all between seller and buyer. You want to make money, not friends, as the saying goes. With an auction house they won't be coming back for any reason, which I believe is your goal. Just my 2 cents.

Bill

[David Dwyer]

I have found dealing with Jason Devine at Amoskeag to be a pleasure and have 5 Parkers in their Nov auction(shameless plug) My experience with James Julia was problematic .
David

[Jean Swanson]

My two cents worth !!!

I have dealt with various auction houses over the years, each having their own way of doing business, some good and others bad . There is another way of disposing of collections or single items----a trustworthy dealer. I have used both with usual success---you can not expect to have the last buck end up in YOUR pocket. They have to make a profit and/or living.

The best results that I have received as of late is James Julia in Maine and my dealings have been with Wes Dillon. I have not dealt with Jos Loewensteiner for the simple reason of our association with the PGCA and being accused of a possible conflict of interest.

Allan

[Bill Murphy]

I respect Allan's comments as I respect him. However, the dealers are overwhelmed with Parker inventory and I'm not sure how fast they are turning over. Another thing to consider is that we all have gotten bargains from the best of auction houses. Buyers of some of your items will also get bargains.

[Jean Swanson]

Bill

I also respect your knowledge and wisdom ; however, one must trust someone------that comes with experience and faith in others.

Best to you
Allan

[Bill Murphy]

Allan, trusting is the hardest part of this gun selling business. I'm happy with those who have helped me so far. Selling to a friend is very satisfying.

[Rich Anderson]

I would consider Rock Island or James Devine for sending your collection to auction. I know several people who have had a bad experience with Julia's. My guns are going into a trust and in that trust it's specified that they are not to go there so that's my take on them.

The dealer consignment is a good idea as well. I have a couple of guns with Steve Barnett right now. He's fair and you might end up getting a better price as there isn't a timetable on the sale. he has sold a couple of Parkers and Winchester M70's for me in the past and I have no complaints.

[Craig Larter]

I have had great experience with a small local auction (Hessney) for guns worth less than 1K, low commission 10% and pay in 10 days---market prices for all of my items. For the middle tier stuff I have had great luck with Amoskeag-----stuff I just wanted to go away and have been VERY happy with realized prices----beat my expectations on my Fox shotguns. For items that I wanted a set dollar amount without the auction risk I have used Tom Wyraz, Steve Barnett and Jay S, all are good depending on the item (Fox=Wyraz ( the best!), Winchester 21's= Tom Wyraz, Jay and Steve, Parkers=Jay or Steve). Tom will give you excellent personal service in my experience, Jay and Steve are great but more big volume dealers. I have purchased from RI and Julia's but have not consigned to them. Both are very good organizations in my opinion. But I have instructed my wife and son to call Julia's on my premature demise and ask for 0% commission to sell all my guns :cheers:. As eightbore said some guns will sell for strong prices some will falter, average condition guns are in a market downturn. And don't forget the for sale forums on the collector sites------I have sold three Parker on this forum this year--- realistic prices and good Parker guns sell FAST!! in my experience. George if you have a 20ga 32" Sterlingworth CALL ME!!!:rotf: Craig

[John Campbell]

For the generous of heart, there could be another option to the auction house.

The PGCA is a 501(c) 7 organization (thanks Allan). Thus, donations to the PGCA should be tax deductible and can be valued at present retail prices.

So... if one were to "donate" a Parker gun to the PGCA (for raffle/youth incentive, etc.) then the donor could potentially realize the gun's current value as a credit against his or her taxes.

Got a $1500 VHE that you're not sure will fetch $1500 at auction? Donate it. And write off $1500.

I could be wrong about this, but I'm just tossing it out there.

[Jean Swanson]

John

Great idea;however the PGCA is actually a 501(c) 7---the Parker Gun Foundation is in fact a 501(c)3 . The tax consequence is up to you and Uncle Sam.

Have a great day
Allan

[Reggie Bishop]

And the contribution would not be a credit, it would be a deduction from adjusted gross income as an itemized deduction subject so certain limitations depending on several factors. Credits offset tax dollar for dollar. Deductions reduce taxable income, therefore, the tax savings is dependent on your tax bracket.

[Bill Murphy]

Yup, a deduction, not a credit. At my income level, my tax deduction for a donated A-1 Special 20 gauge would probably be about a tenth of the value of the gun.

[George Lander]

George you should consider posting the Parker's here for a few days before shipping them out. Btw ... tell Billy I said hi.
Mike, I will do just that & I will tell Billy that you said hello

Best Regards, George

[George Lander]

Many thanks to everyone who posted here so far. I met with Josh Lowenstiner today and had him look at my collection. I am also considering Charlton Hall Auctions as I have worked for them in the past when they had guns. Some of the others that you mentioned I will consider as well. I have @ 20 or so Parkers, 10 or so A.H.Fox and a couple L.C. Smith.
over 100 long guns and a number of handguns.

My reasons for wanting to sell are three fold: 1. My age 78 2. The fact that no one in my family appreciates old guns and 3. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY my oldest child, my daughter Lisha, is suffering from stage 5 brain cancer. She has had two operations at Duke Medical and will have to have at least one more. Right now she is doing great and she loves to travel. This is how I plan to use the proceeds from my selling my collection. I've enjoyed it long enough and it's time for others to have the pleasure.

THANK YOU ALL AGAIN FOR YOUR INPUT AND ADVICE........Best Regards, George

[allen newell]

God bless you George and your daughter. We will pray for her

[Dave Tatman]

What a tribute to the love a father feels for his daughter. From all of us dads of daughters, George, our hat is off to you, and we salute your decision. May these decisions go well.

All the best,
Dave

[charlie cleveland]

i hope your daughter gets well..your a better man than me i thought a few times of thinning my guns out but just cannotdo it...hope you do well in the selling...charlie

[Jim DiSpagno]

George, The Good Lord looks kindly on these selfless acts and answers prayers positively. Our prayers and best wishes are with you and your family. God Bless and good luck with the sale

[Chuck Bishop]

George, it's a wonderful thing you are doing for your daughter's benefit. Prayers to your daughter and to you also

[todd allen]

Thoughts and prayers for you and your daughter. May God give her doctors wisdom, and skills necessary to heal her.

[Jean Swanson]

George

Your acts of kindness are wonderful, daughters are special !! She will appreciate that .

As for contributions---a 501(c)7 is only formed as a non profit Corp. for tax purposes only. A 501(c)3 however has a clause where contributions are deductible as a non profit corp. I could be wrong, but that is one of the reasons the Parker Gun Foundation was formed .

Allan

[Dean Romig]

George, what else can a Dad do? How better can a Dad express his perfect love for his child than to divest himself of his cherished possessions for the benefit of that child? And God will take care of the rest.

You have been a welcome presence here on the Forum and in the PGCA and we hope that continues even after you have no more Parkers. Friendships are made through the common interest in Parker guns but the thing that keeps us together as friends goes way beyond Parkers.

Best, Dean

[Robert Brooks]

Prayers sent.

[Richard Flanders]

Good on you George. Your daughter is at the right place for her issue. I had a friend with the same issue and going to Duke added, we think, 6 years onto his life.

[George Lander]

What a tribute to the love a father feels for his daughter. From all of us dads of daughters, George, our hat is off to you, and we salute your decision. May these decisions go well.

All the best,
Dave

Dave: My Dad was from Hopkinsville, Kentucky and many thanks for your kind words.

Best Regards, George

[George Lander]

George, what else can a Dad do? How better can a Dad express his perfect love for his child than to divest himself of his cherished possessions for the benefit of that child? And God will take care of the rest.

You have been a welcome presence here on the Forum and in the PGCA and we hope that continues even after you have no more Parkers. Friendships are made through the common interest in Parker guns but the thing that keeps us together as friends goes way beyond Parkers.

Best, Dean

Thank You Dean. I will always have at least one Parker. The one that goes in my coffin.

Best Regards, George:bigbye:

[George Lander]

I finally made a decision on my guns. I am allowing Charlton Hall Auctions of West Columbia South Carolina to sell my guns in their upcoming October 26-28, 2017 auction. I have had a long standing relationship with Charlton Hall and its owner Ronald Long. I am their "go-to" guy when they need arms appraisals. I seriously considered Julia's but decided that I needed it to be closer to home.

I hope to God that I have not waited to long. My daughter had a relapse a week ago. It seems that she now has an infection in her brain cavity that they cannot identify. They are treating her at Lexington Medical Center for the infection. She speaks but no one can understand her and she has to be restrained. I can only ask for your prayers and hope that Our Dear Lord will take pity on her. I was selling my collection primarily to be able to do some things and go some places with her while I still could. I humbly ask for your prayers for God's help.

Best Regards, George

[Dean Romig]

George, I will pray for God's grace on your daughter and you.





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[Eric Eis]

Gearge you and your family have my prayers. Eric

[Jim DiSpagno]

George, you have been in our prayers from the beginning. All we can do is beseech the Good Lord to be kind to you and your daughter. God Bless you George

[George Lander]

Thank You Dean, Eric and Jim. Your prayers are most welcome.

Best Regards, George

[Mills Morrison]

Sorry to hear the news. Thinking about you, George.

[todd allen]

George, your family has been in my prayers since page one of this topic.

[Dave Tatman]

May you, your family, and especially your daughter, George, know the peace that passes all understanding in this most difficult time. I pray that God will show his grace and his mercy to all.

Dave

[George Lander]

May you, your family, and especially your daughter, George, know the peace that passes all understanding in this most difficult time. I pray that God will show his grace and his mercy to all.

Dave

Thank You Dave. It is all in HIS hands now and really has always been so.

Best Regards, George

[George Lander]

Thank You so much Mills and Todd for your thoughts and prayers.

Best Regards, George

[Angel Cruz]

George, I pray for your daughter's recovery. May God's grace shine on her.

[Daryl Corona]

George, I believe God never gives you more than you can handle. I will pray for her and you and may God bless.

Daryl

[George Lander]

By way of an update, my daughter, Lisha, is now in hospice care AGAPI in Lexington, SC. She is only semi responsive and bedridden. I am intending starting tomorrow to seek further advice on what treatments might be still available. More surgery, more chemo, more radiation or just let the disease take its course. Any thoughts would be most welcome. Would Cancer Centers of America (Atlanta) be a viable option?

Best Regards, George

[Jim DiSpagno]

Call Cancer Treatment Center of America, memorial Sloan Kettering in NYC, Moffit in Tampa Fla. It can't hurt George. God Bless you and your daughter.

[Dean Romig]

While there is life there is hope.
Do what your heart tells you to do.
At this point there is no 'wrong' decision.





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[John Dallas]

My understanding is that if a patient is in hospice care, that the decision has been made to proceed with palliative care only. My thoughts are with you

[Mills Morrison]

Sorry to hear this news, George. I am thinking about you . . .

[George Lander]

Thank You Jim, Dean John & Mills: I am currently seeking further advice. I am not satisfied with the hospice that she is in; Cancer Center of America in Atlanta is my best option I believe. I'm talking with them tomorrow.

Best Regards, George

[Gary Carmichael Sr]

George, I looked at cancer centers of America but they would only take you if you were in a certain radius of there facility, What ever you do do not give up hope! I was told I had a year and a half at most left, The good lord is the reason I am here today, along with the doctors at Duke, and lot of prayers. I am 4- 1/2 years later Cancer free. Stay the course, You my friend are in my prayers for your daughter, Gary

[Ronald Moore]

George: I had to go through the same thing with my mother, when they get to stage four their is little or no reversing it, I set it up so she was medicated and in no pain, she slipped away easily which is a blessing for all, it is a hard decision but sometimes is best to let them go easily.

Ron

[George Lander]

Thank You Gary and Ronald: My 30 year old granddaughter, Haley, is having her mother, Lisha, moved home tomorrow and it may for the best. They live on Lake Murray so at least when she is awake she won't have to look at the four walls of a hospital room. We will have a private duty nurse with her for most of the time and we still pray for a miracle. Thank You for caring.

Best Regards, George

[Karl Ferguson]

George,

We just went through this 8 months ago and I know what you are feeling. Bringing her home is the best thing for all involved. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Regards, Karl

[George Lander]

Thanks Karl: We brought her home today and I believe that I already see some improvement in her disposition. She is in her home on Lake Murray and has a beautiful unobstructed view of the lake from her back deck. Her daughter, Haley, has taken charge of her medication and has obtained a hospital reclining chair and bed for her. I just left her home and feel much better about her situation.

Best Regards, George

[Joe Dreisch]

May the Good Lord bless and keep your family. You are in my prayers.

[George Lander]

Thank You Joe: The auction catalogues are at Charlton Hall now. If anyone here would like to have one I'll see that it is sent. You may also view my collection at www.charltonhallauction.com

Best Regards, George

[George Lander]

Unfortunately the auction did not go very well for me. The catalogue and the presentation were beautiful but the bidders just were not there. I'll have to now figure out another game plan to disburse my collection.

My beautiful daughter, Lisha, went home to Jesus and her mother, Claudia, this past Wednesday. She fought the good fight for almost two years. She is no longer in pain and suffering. Thanks to all here who helped me through this.

Best Regards, George

[Jim DiSpagno]

My sincere condolences George. A parent should never bury a child. It's not natural. All our prayers are with you my friend. God Bless you

[Chuck Bishop]

So sorry for you loss George. It was obvious from your posts how much you loved your daughter.

[Reggie Bishop]

Thankful the suffering is no longer, but very sorry for your loss.

[George Lander]

My sincere condolences George. A parent should never bury a child. It's not natural. All our prayers are with you my friend. God Bless you

Thank You Jim. When you have time look on the Arlington website for "HALLOWED GROUND" That was Lisha's poem & tribute to our fallen heroes buried there.

Best Regards, George

[Dave Tatman]

Oh, George, I'm so very sorry for the loss of your daughter. But knowing that her suffering is over, and that she is Home with her mother, can lighten that burden. May God be with you now and in all the days of the future. You have many friends here, and all of us share in your grief, your sadness, and, importantly, in your celebration of her life well-lived.

All the best, our friend.

Dave

[Dean Romig]

I'm very sorry to learn that she didn't survive her epic battle.

Like Jim said, we shouldn't outlive our children.




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[Daryl Corona]

George;
I'm so very,very sorry to hear of your daughter's passing.

[Robert Brooks]

George prayers sent. Bobby

[Robin Lewis]

My sincere condolences.

[George Lander]

Thank you Chuck, Phillip, Reggie, Dave, Dean, Daryl, Robin & Bobby. Lisha was a special girl much like her Mom, Claudia. She was an elementary school teacher for over twenty years, did scientific ocean cruises with NOAA and wrote poetry for school children. JOE T. McNAB THE HERMIT CRAB, ERICA JANE THE HURRICANE and HALLOWED GROUND which you can find on the Arlington Cemetery website. Google "HALLOWED GROUND LISHA LANDER HYLTON". I'm going to miss her smile and enthusiasm about life. She is with Our Lord now and her Mother.

Best Regards, George

[Michael Moffa]

Our sincerest condolences on your loss.

Michael and Deborah

[Bill Murphy]

George, I am so sorry.

[George Lander]

George, I am so sorry.

Thank You Bill. She is Home with Our Lord and Claudia, her mother............George

[charlie cleveland]

GOD BE WITH YOU GEORGE....charlie

[Bobby Cash]

We will honor her by carrying on.

[George Lander]

Thank You Charlie. She was a wonderful daughter. I am so proud of her and I am going to miss her every day. I have her Jack Russell Terriers "HOBO & DIXIE" that she loved dearly.

Best Regards, George

[todd allen]

George, thoughts and prayers for you for strength and comfort in this difficult time.
God's Speed.

[Mark Ray]

Praying that you and your family experience grace, during this period of sorrow. Your girl is now living the Promise Made. God’s speed.

[Eric Eis]

I am so sorry George, you remained strong through all of this and that is something very special that you gave not only to her but your family too. God bless. Eric

[Richard Flanders]

Sorry to hear of your daughter George. Good on you for trying so hard to help her near the end.

[George Lander]

Thank you Bobby, Todd, Mark, Eric & Richard: I believe that the reality of it has just begun to sink in. I'm going to miss her every day.

Best Regards, George

[Daryl Corona]

George;
My fiance lost her daughter 5 years ago. There is'nt a day goes by that she does'nt think about her but she has solace in knowing that she is in peace with the Lord. Your kids just should'nt die before you but life is very cruel. My brother who died unexpectedly 7 years ago was a blow to my parents. I just lost my dad on Oct. 19th, and although he was 97 he never expected to outlive has youngest child. Carry on my friend for your daughter's sake. God bless.

[George Lander]

Thank You Daryl, I know that one day I'll be with her again along with her mother, Claudia. She will be always on my mind and in my heart of hearts.

Best Wishes, George

[George Lander]

Sadly for me the appraisals with James D. Julia did not go well at all. It was hard for me to believe the numbers that they put on my guns. They would not leave me a copy of their estimates but I overheard some of the numbers they were throwing out. Either the doublegun market is in the loo or what is happening? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Best Regards, George

[Kevin McCormack]

Sounds like an analogous situation to the 1994 cult film, Reality Bites The film tells the story of an aspiring videographer working on a documentary called "Reality Bites" about the disenfranchised lives of her friends and roommates, a bunch of 30-somethings. Their challenges exemplify some of the career and lifestyle choices faced by Generation X.

Let me fast-forward to "Generation X plus 40 years":
Like George, some recent experiences, not all good, have involved my participation in the appraisal and attempted sale of what I perceived to be some very valuable guns in varying degrees of "high" condition and originality. Unfortunately, my perceptions were singular, based on values and conditions of what were considered very desirable firearms "back in the day". I then underwent (as a requirement of sale) two separate appraisals, 9 months apart. The results and impact are very much what like George describes; their value(s) had except in a very few cases diminished considerably, and in fact the appraisers in both cases cited "moderate to highly inflated estimates of condition and value" (bearing in mind that none of these guns had been appraised in over 30+ years).

It is indeed a bitter pill to swallow sometimes, but as the author of the fabulous book, "Objects of Desire", a seminal guide to the vagaries and intricacies of the antique trade, puts it, "If you really want to know what it's worth, send it to auction!" Caveat Consignor.

[Eric Eis]

Sadly for me the appraisals with James D. Julia did not go well at all. It was hard for me to believe the numbers that they put on my guns. They would not leave me a copy of their estimates but I overheard some of the numbers they were throwing out. Either the doublegun market is in the loo or what is happening? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Best Regards, George

George, did they give you a value on each individual gun or a lump sum? I'm not sure I understand this situation, are you saying they wouldn't give you a copy of what value they placed on the guns? That's strange.

[David Dwyer]

George
My recent experience , conversations with several dealers, and auction house results has shown me that the SxS market is definitely in the loo and someone pulled the handle. This is especially true of 12ga and even true of small ga Parkers. This too will pass but maybe not in our lifetime. In the high grade , high condition market 2 of maybe 5-6 buyers have backed away.
Best of luck
David

[John Dallas]

I agree with David. Young folks, even if they are shooters, are not interested in SxS guns. My two grandsons, both Master Class sporting clays shooters, look at my Parkers amd M21's and Fox as curiosities. Go to a gun show. The only two things which have increased at them is beef jerky sales and walkers/canes. Not what a growing (or even stable) market looks like. Enjoy your SxS's but recognize that as a class, they are not going to be increasing in value

[edgarspencer]

George, I'm sorry I've come to this thread late, but I am truly sorry for your loss of your daughter. I simply do not know how empty one must feel loosing a child. The holidays are the toughest time, worse if you don't know the true meaning of Christmas.
I have several friends who work for WHOI, and The Nat'l Marine Fisheries Lab in Kingston RI. I will let my good friend Jack know, as he knew anybody and everybody.
I am at the age where I too, should be thinking of thinning my collection down, but the spirit keeps moving me for "just one more".

[John Allen]

I agree that the market has changed dramatically.However,what I am seeing in my appraisal business is that really mint collector class guns are bringing more than ever. What has changed is the mid level condition guns that people used to buy to hunt with has gone.Those were the guns that held the market up.Mr.Dallas is correct that young shooters now shoot over unders or semi autos.The double gun market is turning into a pure collector market.This is not only true for doubles,but all "claasic" guns.Winchesters,Colts,etc. are all seeing the same change.

[Brian Dudley]

Auction houses are usually all about optomism and selling you on their ability to get the most money for your item. Maybe they honestly felt that their apprasal was what the guns were worth. ???

[Bill Anderson]

As for the future of overall prices on SxSs increasing much, I think I see the "fat lady" approaching the stage.

Bill

[Jerry VanHorn]

I must agree that the SXS market is, at best, soft. I was Pres. of The Palm Beach Gun Collectors for many years. We put on our club shows at least 3 times per year in Lake Worth..and at The So. Florida Fairgrounds. We also did the Lakeland show and Tulsa for several years. With my main interest being double guns, I watched pretty closely what the prices did...in the different locations..and the slide downward has been somewhat constant. Our shows were guns/knives only...but the majority of shows allow anything that will fit on a table. It seems that the 'younger generation " all speak AR-15, etc. I sold out once, and about broke even..11 years ago..I'm replacing things again, but have no visions of profit if I were to sell again. I'll let the kids, grandkids..and as of this year..GGrandson do as they wish with the collection. I hope they enjoy everything as much as I have..jv..

[John Campbell]

One's affinity for the SxS shotgun is mostly generational. Currently, Baby Boomers. It was part of their "inheritance."

What the young have been given and relish today has plastic stocks, painted metal, big magazine capacity and video game slaughtering capability.

To borrow from two classic authors, if a man walks away from his traditions and history, he'd better replace it with "something of value."
Either that, or "inherit the wind."

[George Lander]

George, did they give you a value on each individual gun or a lump sum? I'm not sure I understand this situation, are you saying they wouldn't give you a copy of what value they placed on the guns? That's strange.

They did not do either. They only told me what they would advance which was about 20% of what I needed. I overheard some of their estimates. $500-$700 for a Parker that I had valued at $3,000. I asked for a copy of their estimates but was refused.

Best Regards, George:banghead:

[Bill Anderson]

One's affinity for the SxS shotgun is mostly generational. Currently, Baby Boomers. It was part of their "inheritance."

What the young have been given and relish today has plastic stocks, painted metal, big magazine capacity and video game slaughtering capability.

To borrow from two classic authors, if a man walks away from his traditions and history, he'd better replace it with "something of value."
Either that, or "inherit the wind."

I think you have nailed it !! ...

http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y480/TommyGunsNo1/ZOMBIE%20Killer_zpsyy4wgph1.jpg (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/TommyGunsNo1/media/ZOMBIE%20Killer_zpsyy4wgph1.jpg.html)

Bill

[Eric Eis]

They did not do either. They only told me what they would advance which was about 20% of what I needed. I overheard some of their estimates. $500-$700 for a Parker that I had valued at $3,000. I asked for a copy of their estimates but was refused.

Best Regards, George:banghead:

George, I think you did the right thing to walk away. If they were unwilling to even give you a written estimate on each gun then there is something wrong with that, if nothing else so you would know which guns had value and which didn't. Maybe to ones that didn't have as much value you may have wanted to give to family or a friend and send the others to auction.

[John Campbell]

A recent press release says that Julia has been absorbed by Morphy Auctions in PA. I have personal experience with Morphy. And they DID provide valuations on each item.

Sadly, the final prices realized were less than I'd hoped...

[Bill Murphy]

When the commission is 20% or 25%, and the sale day prices are 20% less than you expected, and there is a charge for shipping, storage, etc., your $1000 gun will not make $500. It's very simple arithmetic. $1000 minus 25% equals $750. $750 minus 20% equals $600. $600 minus $50 for shipping and insurance to the auction house equals $550. Some of our members will tell you the bad news about the big charges for packing, shipping, and insurance if your gun doesn't sell. Auctions are for buyers, auctioneers, lawyers, and widows, not living gun owners who want to sell their guns.

[Dean Romig]

Error in your naive arithmetic Bill...

It's $1000 - 25% = $750
then it's another 20% off that same $1000 = $550
then it's $50 for shipping = $500





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[Kirk Potter]

I’m 31, In the almost 2 years since I joined, I’ve had 2 people say something about the PGCA sticker on my truck. Both were 70+ years old.

[edgarspencer]

Dean and Bill, why are you deducting the shipping from the sellers proceeds? The buyer pays the shipping.
If you expected $1000, but sales were off 20%, then I’d assume it hammered at $800, from which the auctioneer takes his 25%, netting you 600. Pathetic.

[Russ Jackson]

I’m 31, In the almost 2 years since I joined, I’ve had 2 people say something about the PGCA sticker on my truck. Both were 70+ years old.

I've been a member for some time and just yesterday was the first time someone mentioned my PGCA Sticker on the Back Window of my Jeep ! We had a relatively warm day and I snuck out for 18 Holes at the course and a Gentleman in the parking lot ask if this was my vehicle ,I answered yes and he replied you must be loaded if you are a Parker Collector :rotf: ,Apparently he doesn't know about the Flat Market in Double Guns !!!!!!!!!!!!!!:rotf:

[Ed Blake]

All this means is it’s a buyers market.

[Tom Carter]

If I remember correctly, didn't one of our other members also have some sort of issue with Julia's?

[Russell E. Cleary]

This thread has just reminded me that I am really just a Parker Gun Collector In Name Only. All the guns I would like to buy, even at these depressed prices, are still beyond my financial reach.

But, that's OK -- I can still partake of The Mystique.

[George Lander]

George, I think you did the right thing to walk away. If they were unwilling to even give you a written estimate on each gun then there is something wrong with that, if nothing else so you would know which guns had value and which didn't. Maybe to ones that didn't have as much value you may have wanted to give to family or a friend and send the others to auction.

Eric: I was prepared to take less on some guns, the ordinary ones, hoping for a better result on the rarer ones and an overall average that I could live with. That, unfortunately, was not forthcoming as I did not know what their estimates were or how they were arriving at them. It seemed to me that the person doing the evaluating was only identifying the guns make, gauge, model, ejectors or extractors. Nothing about condition, rarity, maker, history, etc. Each evaluation took @ one minute and then his estimate. Not very professional at all in my view. For instance, I have a Parker Bros. DHE 20 gauge that I purchased from Holt's in England several years ago. It has London proofs on the barrel flats. It is in very fine original condition with an initial plate bearing the name "S.D. McGraw" and the number "2" The Parker letter gives it's manufacture date in 1925 but has no detailed information as to who ordered it or where the factory shipped it to. I was hoping that a competent auction house would be willing to do some further research on it and find out who it was made for (there was a major league baseball manager with the name McGraw around that time) I overheard their estimate of around $2,500. I thought that they were looking at the wrong gun. I guess that I must find a more competent outlet to sell my collection.

Best Regards, George

[edgarspencer]

George, Tug McGraw's Christian name was Frank. I was thinking it might have been McGraw-Hill Publishing, but found that S.D. McGraw was a Partner in the Securities firm of Allen, McGraw & Co. who were listed brokers on the Chicago Stock exchange. The dates match up with the period of the gun.
A DHE 20 would first need to be run over, twice, by a 20 car train before it was worth $2500. Julia's has sold many 20ga. DHE guns in the past couple years, between $8k range to over $17,000. Maybe I should sell all of mine and buy a pontoon boat.

[Eric Eis]

George, Tug McGraw's Christian name was Frank. I was thinking it might have been McGraw-Hill Publishing, but found that S.D. McGraw was a Partner in the Securities firm of Allen, McGraw & Co. who were listed brokers on the Chicago Stock exchange. The dates match up with the period of the gun.
A DHE 20 would first need to be run over, twice, by a 20 car train before it was worth $2500. Julia's has sold many 20ga. DHE guns in the past couple years, between $8k range to over $17,000. Maybe I should sell all of mine and buy a pontoon boat.

I totally agree Edgar...............:corn:

[Bill Murphy]

Edgar, the figures you were asking about would be the charges for getting the collection (or individual guns) to the auction house. I am waiting for someone to link the thread about one of our member's experience in getting his guns back after not being sold. I won't mention his name.

[Chris Travinski]

I'm familiar with George's DHE, I bid on that gun too. It's a gorgeous DHE, 30", straight stock with a long LOP and checkered butt. It's a cool job for sure, I would guess it'll bring a premium at the right auction.

[John Allen]

The best way to get the maximum return on your guns is to sell them yourself.Take good photos,write an accurate description,price them reasonably,and put them on the internet. It is perfectly legal as long as you ship to an FFL on the buyers end.A pain and a hassle,but you will get more for your guns and no waiting for checks or returning of unsold guns.The market is so tight now that there is no room for the middlemen anymore.

[Rich Anderson]

If I remember correctly, didn't one of our other members also have some sort of issue with Julia's?

More than one. I'm in the process of putting my guns in a trust with instructions on how to dispose of them and an approximate value at the time the trust is implemented. My first choices are respected dealers who will work on a consignment basis, the next is an auction and it is stipulated that under no circumstances will Julia's be considered.

[Mike Franzen]

George I hope you can find a moment of peace each day.

[Jerry Harlow]

As for the future of overall prices on SxSs increasing much, I think I see the "fat lady" approaching the stage.

Bill

I don't know why the double-barrel market would ever go down. Did no one listen?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_LEfNFMAys

[allen newell]

I have incorporated disposition of all my firearms in my will. My grandson will get my grandfather's/Father's 16 Parker and a nice 20 Parker. The rest of my Parkers and other guns are going to a number of close friends that I shoot and hunt with. And I'm at peace with this.

[Kirk Potter]

More than one. I'm in the process of putting my guns in a trust with instructions on how to dispose of them and an approximate value at the time the trust is implemented. My first choices are respected dealers who will work on a consignment basis, the next is an auction and it is stipulated that under no circumstances will Julia's be considered.


If you need my contact information let me know.. Hahaha.

[allen newell]

Sorry Kirk, dispositions are final and firm. You're a day late and dollar short as they say. LOL

[David Dwyer]

George
There is an honest gun dealer in Wagum N C, Phillip Futrell at MidSouth Guns. I would give him a call if it was me. He buys collections and all my dealings with him have been good. JMHO
David

[Kevin McCormack]

Second what David said - I dealt with Phillip for many years and was never dissatisfied, including resolution of a tense snafu involving a gun that turned out to be stolen (Phillip nor the person he bought it from before selling it to me had anything to do with that, of course). P.S. - He is in Wagram NC.

[John Dallas]

I've always had great dealings with Jaqua's in Findlay ,OH.

[Eric Eis]

I'll "third" what David and Kevin said. I have dealt with Philip on many occasions and he is a straight shooter and very honest guy.

[Bill Murphy]

Telling my heirs or "trust guys" to send my guns to a dealer to sell on consignment may result in a can of worms. The most prolific dealers in high end guns are full to the gills and may take months or years to liquidate a collection. Better to sell at to a dealer at 60% than wait years to get your money. Remember, you're dead and your heirs don't have time to argue with a gun dealer over prices of individual guns. Phillip may be getting back into collector guns soon, and may be a good choice.

[Bill Zachow]

I wish to second what Mr Allen said. If you wish to sell your guns, do it yourself. He suggested the internet, I used friends, both personal and dealer. In the past year I sold 5 guns, 4 Parkers and one refinished antique double rifle. The Parkers were described by my dealer friend as very nice conditioned honest guns. None were high grade. I received $27,000 with no commisions, shipping fees or FFL charges. A number of years ago I used Julias to sell a pre 64 model 70 supergrade in 250 3000, a consecutive pair of black box Colt Buntlines and a Winchester pre war tournament grade model 21. I lost money on all 3 item. I would never use an auction house. I dare say on the guns I recently sold, I would have been lucky to clear $15,000 had I used an auction house,

[Chuck Bishop]

Who is Phillip?

Never mind, I found the post.

[Rich Anderson]

Bill I'm sure you could have done better esp with that M70 SG what a rifle:bowdown: I have a std in 250-3000 and a bunch of other 70's including a SG in 220 Swift to sell but no auctions:nono: The mkt is somewhat soft right now and they don't eat anything so I'll just wait and see.