Gun Collection Appraisals: Liquidating an Estate with Firearms

Gun Collection Appraisals: Liquidating an Estate with Firearms

Estate Collections
Guns are a common inheritance when an estate changes hands. Maybe you are comfortable with guns, or maybe you aren’t.

Guns are a common inheritance when an estate changes hands. Maybe you are comfortable with guns, or maybe you aren’t. What are your options for gun collection appraisals?

Here, you learn everything you need to know about gun collection appraisals and options for liquidating an estate with firearms. Find out how to get the most money for a collection, and how a gun’s value is determined by the appraiser.

Estate Gun Collection Appraisals: Everything You Need to Know

When someone receives a large gun collection as part of an estate inheritance it can be overwhelming – especially if you are not a collector. Gun collections are seldom weaned by the collector, as, disposing of firearms is fairly uncommon. You may find yourself looking at a gun collection that has been passed down and expanded upon for generations.

Selling a gun collection is a fine plan, as long as you are aware of the laws regarding gun sales in your state. Also, it is worth thinking about how much money would make the sale worthwhile.

If you are resolved to liquidate the collection, it all starts with figuring out what you are selling.

Identify Each Gun in the Estate Collection

Formal Gun Collection Appraisals are billed by the hour and we offer a full-service gun appraisal and gun identification services. Informal gun collection appraisals are usually set at a flat price per project and can be very useful for probate and estate disbursement.

To save time and money on your appraisal costs, consider identifying and listing the guns in your collection prior to sale at auction. An appraiser will need to see the collection in person to make any firm statements of value in writing.

The most common and affordable way to have your gun collection appraised is by sharing pictures and documentation on each piece with the appraiser – digitally or through the mail.

Appraisers need specific information in order to accurately assess how much each firearm is worth. For each gun, identify the type, manufacturer, barrel length, caliber, condition, Serial Number, and any markings.

What type of gun is it? Handguns are either a revolver or a pistol. Long guns are, either a shotgun or a rifle. Caliber expresses the ammunition size that the gun is designed to fire. It is often marked on the gun, or else, made a measurement of the diameter of the bore. Also, measure the length of the barrel.

Every marking on the gun is important to identification in appraisals. Most guns are marked with the make and model name, as well as a serial number. Document and photograph every marking that you can find in the gun.

What is the Condition of the Guns?

Once you know what each gun is, finding the value range for each piece is as easy as consulting the Blue Book of Gun Values or Standard Catalogue of Guns. But, the value can widely vary, depending on the condition. The value of a collectible gun is based, in large part, on its condition.

The guns condition is ultimately, what separates pieces worth tens of thousands, from those that are worth hundreds. Furthermore, the technical evaluation of the condition of a gun varies depending on if it is an antique or contemporary firearm.

Just like a collectible Star Wars toy – any alteration or degradation to the original manufacturer state lowers the value of the gun. Collectors want pieces that are as close to new as possible. Modifications, refinishing, alterations, and repairs lower the condition and value of a gun.

As you catalog and document the condition for your inventory, make a note of damaged grips, dented barrels -– etc. At all costs – do not clean any antique guns before having the gun appraised. It takes off the original finish and decreases the value of an antique.

Fair Market vs Insurance Appraisal

Gun collection appraisals come in two categories: Fair-market, and insurance appraisals. A fair market appraisal estimates the value of a collection to sell on the open market. This is a good way to find out how much your gun collection is worth at an upcoming firearms auction.

Insurance appraisals assess the replacement value of a collection. This is a good idea for anyone looking to insure and hold their collection, instead of liquidating.

Firearm Appraisal Services with CTFA

Firearm Appraisal Services with CTFA offers individuals a professional appraisal service for their firearms or firearm collections. Our team of expert gun appraisers can help value and assess all types of firearms, from military weapons to retail accessories. 

Whether you have a small handgun or a large collection of Civil War-era weapons, we can provide you with a certified appraisal that is compliant with current market standards. With our written appraisals, you can legally store or sell your firearm with peace of mind. In addition, we can assist with the liquidation of firearms through auction houses or retail stores. If you have any inquiries about the value of your weapon, feel free to contact us for a quote.

Final Thoughts On Gun Appraisals

Gun collection appraisals are necessary, whether you want to insure your new inheritance or liquidate the collection at auction. If you are looking to liquidate an estate firearm collection, get a fair market appraisal. The more high-quality photographs, provenance documentation, and identification information you give an appraiser the less time and expense it will take.

If you enjoyed reading this article on estate gun collection appraisals, share it with your social community. And check out the blog for more guides on antique gun appraisals. Thanks for reading!

Q: What is firearm appraisal used for?

A: Firearm appraisal is the process of determining the value of a firearm, taking into account its age, condition, rarity, and other factors.

Q: How can I appraise an antique firearm?

A: Appraising an antique firearm is best done by contacting a professional expert in firearm appraisal who can provide a valuation based on industry standards.

Q: What should I consider before selling my firearm collection?

A: Before selling your firearm collection, you should evaluate the market value of each item, ensure legal compliance, and consider storage and safety concerns.

Q: How can I liquidate an estate with firearms?

A: Liquidating an estate with firearms involves getting in touch with a certified appraiser who can assist in the evaluation, sale, and transfer of the firearm collection.

Q: What is the importance of using a professional appraiser for firearms?

A: Professional appraisers have the knowledge and expertise to properly value firearms, ensuring that you get a fair and accurate assessment of your collection.

Q: How do I ensure that my firearm collection is handled safely during appraisal and sale?

A: To ensure safe handling of your firearm collection, choose a licensed firearms dealer or expert who is knowledgeable in the proper evaluation and storage of firearms.

Q: What is the role of an attorney in the appraisal and sale of firearms?

A: An attorney can assist in assessing liability concerns, ensuring legal compliance, and facilitating the transfer of firearms in accordance with federal firearms regulations.