How to Find Out the Value of Old Wood Toys

Old wooden toys in the attic? Or perhaps they’re treasures from your youth? Or that unexpected garage sale find? Finding the value of old wooden toys is a combination of patience and sleuthing--and it’s anyone’s guess what the results will be.So how you do you go about it?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine the age of the wooden toy. Virtually all mass-produced toys were made after 1850, and most came later. Age, however, is only a small factor in the value, as collectors are usually more interested in manufacturer, rarity and condition.

2. Look for dating clues. After 1870, many U.S. toys were trademarked or patented. Look for stenciled, embossed or printed patent numbers on either the toy or its box. The US Patent Office will (for a fee) provide you with information about the patent, and the probably date range during when the toy was made.

3. Search historic catalogs. The paper labels on old toys are usually long gone. However, old catalogs can be a good resource. Many famous manufacturers' old catalogs have actually been reprinted to aid collectors.

4. Check for country of origin. Imported toys after 1890 often have the country of origin mark, which can be useful for a very rough dating estimate.

5. Determine the condition. Mint condition is the best, with the original finish intact, no damage or repairs, all accessories present, and having the original box with instructions. From there, condition is noted as very good, good, and so on. The less good the condition, usually the lower the value. Restoration-new paint, replacement springs or anything else that was replaced on the toy must be noted, and affect a toy’s condition and value.

6. Determine the rarity factor. Unlike the past two decades, toys were not produced in the millions. Plus, no surprise, most were used to pieces by their child owners. The more rare the toy, the greater the potential value.

7. Study books on wooden toys. Many books are available on antique and old wooden toys that provide their history and possible value.

8. Consider a professional appraisal. Experienced toy appraisers can provide you with the value of your wooden toy, which can be of use not only for possible sale, but for insurance purposes. It’s best to go with a reputable appraiser that specializes in antique toys, and fees should be on an hourly, per item basis. Don’t sell your toys to the person who does the appraisal due to a conflict of interest.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your old wooden toys out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources which can dry and crack the wood.
• Remember that while a toy may be appraised for a certain amount, there is no guarantee you will get that amount if you put it up for sale. It all depends on the level of interest.

Resources

• Value and Appraisal Resources
• Wooden Toys
• Evaluating Antique Toys

[xyzmark]

on 3/20/2009 This is some good information. A good place to start before you spend money on an appraiser is www.ValueJockey.com. It is free. I would recommend using the tips from this article and posting a picture up there. Good Luck!!!