It probably has some effect. For too long there has been a stigma surrounding restoring a gun. The reality is that a restoration may increase the value but there are those who simply think it ruins a gun. I guess sometimes "perception trumps reality".
I at one time owned a Sharps Mod 1874 .40 2 5/8 that had a proven Bill Cody connection. It was actually used on the Czar's hunt. It was worn out after many years of use. Once I proved the connection I sold it for a lot of money (at least a lot back then). It was so worn out that I couldn't shoot it (too much head space) so I sold it. No way would I have restored it. But if it was some old Parker owned by John Doe-all worn out-no finish left-why not restore it? Why should it carry a stigma so long as it is done correctly?
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