What Is It Worth?

Before you sell it, give it away or turn it in, find out what it is.

A gun that looks ordinary can be a collector piece.

General information, not legal advice.

Laws change and vary by state.

Infographic: find the markings before you decide. Maker: name or logo on the slide, frame or barrel. Model: often stamped next to the maker name or on the frame. Caliber: on the barrel, slide or near the chamber. Serial number: on the frame or receiver; write it down exactly. Do not clean, refinish or fix an old gun before it is valued.

Step 1: Identify It

Most of what a dealer needs is stamped on the gun. Write down the maker, model, caliber and serial number exactly as they appear, and photograph both sides, the markings and any damage. Keep the original box, manual, extra magazines and paperwork together with the gun. They add value.

Step 2: Leave It As It Is

Do not clean, polish, oil heavily, refinish or repair an older gun before it is valued. Original finish matters to collectors, and well-meant cleaning can cut the value of an antique sharply. Store it dry, in a case, and let the appraiser see it as found.

Museum display of historic firearms from the Colfax County War
Historic guns carry their value in original condition and documented history.

Step 3: Know What Drives Value

  • Maker and model. Some names and models are always in demand.
  • Condition. How much original finish remains, and whether parts are original.
  • Age and history. Firearms made at least 50 years ago can qualify as curios or relics, a federal category collectors watch closely. Documented history, such as military service, can add value.
  • Extras. Original box, papers, accessories and matching serial numbers.
  • Where you live. State laws affect who can buy certain guns, which affects demand.

Step 4: Get a Number

  • Dealer offer. A quick cash offer, usually below retail because the dealer has to resell it. Ask two or three dealers.
  • Consignment. The dealer sells it for you and keeps a percentage. Slower, but closer to retail.
  • Professional appraisal. Worth it for estates, insurance, antiques and collections. Expect a fee.
  • Price guides. Published references such as the Blue Book of Gun Values give ranges by model and condition.
Gun store display case
A dealer can look a gun over and make an offer, or sell it on consignment.

Compare any of those to a buyback event, which usually pays a gift card of fixed value no matter what the gun is worth. A collectible rifle and a broken pistol often bring the same card.

A Note on Stolen Guns

Dealers and police may check a serial number against stolen gun records. If a gun you inherited turns out to be stolen, it will be returned to its lawful owner. That is one more reason to write down every serial number before deciding what to do.

Watch: What Guns Cost Then

Guess Gun Prices, Episode Two: the 1980s

Sources