How to Buy Antique Stanley Tools

Buying antique Stanley tools in itself is an art. It requires some amount of identification skills to know which ones are authentic historical pieces.

You will get better at it as you learn what to look for in quality historic models of this brand of antique tools.

Recognizing authentic Stanley tools may be somewhat of a challenge, as you probably will run into impostures while searching for them.

Not to say that for sure you would get deceived into purchasing "fake" vintage items, but when dealing with collectibles it is always a possibility.

Therefore, when dealing with these items, some general tips should help you find the "real" antique Stanley tools versus the fake ones:

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. One of the most significant ways to learn about the value of a Stanley tool is to take a look at the patent number printed on an item. This is the surest way to tell apart two totally identical Stanley pieces.

2. Seek help from collectibles guides to learn what authentic antique Stanley tools look like. Photos are a very big help, too.

3. Keep updated on values of pieces so when you do find certain pieces you know how much they are worth. This will help you cherish the rarest finds when you discover them.

4. Try to find pieces that are in as perfect condition as possible. These are likely to be worth more than items which are rusted, scratched, or broken.

5. Realize that although many valuable items are available, that most of them are not. It is up to you to study the history of each piece carefully.

6. Evaluate each piece you find based on the following four criteria:

   o Rarity: The number of items produced of a single tool model is one primary consideration when determining the value of a piece.

   o Condition: As mentioned earlier, the physical condition of an item has a serious effect on the value of an item. Mind condition is best, meaning that it is like new. Used items that are like new are also most valuable.

   o Previous Ownership: The prominence (or lack thereof) of the person who previously owned an item might make a difference. This is true no matter how many items of a piece were created, but especially if it is a rarer piece.

   o Desirability It is human nature to want something that everyone else wants. The more desirable an item is, the more worth it has to a collector. This is what raises the prices of certain pieces.

7. If an item is in its original package (new in box) it is likely to be worth far more than one that is not. Furthermore, any tool set that does not have any missing parts or pieces is also increased in value.

8. If an item has been repaired too many times and has been cleaned too often it often shows. The reason why is because any "wear and tear" might contribute to the erosion of a piece, which causes it to be devalued.

9. The Making of Old Stanley Tools

   Some of the earlier models of various antique Stanley tools were created from materials such as Brazilian rosewood and tempered steel. They often were made to fit perfect into a craftsman's hand.

10. Brief History

    Antique Stanley tools originate from the mid 1800s onward. Some of the oldest, rarest pieces are displayed in museums around the world. Some of the highest quality pieces were (believe it or not) produced before 1922.

    The decline in quality of up-to-date items versus antique ones is probably due to the fact that more people are now hiring people to complete their home projects. The earlier Stanley pieces were designed for use in DIY home building projects.

11. While you're here be sure to check out my other articles and take a look around eHow for more great information.