How to Determine the Value of Antique Handguns

Antique guns are prized for their historical value as much as their financial worth.

Antique handguns hold historical significance, from muskets in 18th century France to the antique Colt gun from America's early days. Rapid-fire weapons, repeating firearms, or guns with chambers for multiple bullets were first made during the time of the American wild west and Civil War. Collectors look for guns from these particular time periods for their historical value, aside from monetary worth. Guns that are considered antique were made up till 1899.

Things You'll Need

• Magnifying glass

Instructions

1. Look inside the barrel, once clear, for serial marks. Turn the barrel all around, and write down any markings you come across. Examine other parts of the gun as well, including the chamber.
   By writing down the marks, the gun can be traced to the manufacturer, who could provide information, including value, of the antique gun.

2. Once you have the serial numbers, you can look up gun manufacturer records found in places such as the McCracken Research Library at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, in Cody, Wyoming. This research library has records of most Winchester rifles, and the dates of the gun manufacturing. You can find the website link in Resources.

3. Take the gun to a professional gun dealer to get an estimate of value on an antique gun. If the old antique gun is rusty or the barrel is stuck or there is some other problem with it, a professional antique gun restorer can repair the gun and restore it to its original condition, then give a value.

4. Go to gun shows where antique firearms are sold. You'll find knowledgeable gun dealers on the premises who know what various types of antique guns are worth, and may be able to give an exact value or estimate the range of worth. Many of these dealers also do appraisals.

5. Call a licensed gun range to inquire about firing the weapon. Often, antique gun value is based on performance of the gun. If the gun works it will be worth more than a faulty or damaged piece. Do not fire the gun until it is safe to use, so make sure it has been checked out at the range beforehand.

Tips & Warnings

• Any type of antique gun may have old ammunition lodged within a chamber or barrel. Take gun to a professional to empty gun properly.

References

• Hand Gun Repair Shop
• Antique Gun Parts
• Colt Parts
• Gun Data

Resources

• A-gun.com
• Collectible Antique Guns and Ammo
• Gun Digest
• National Rifle Association
• Buffalo Bill Historical Center