How to Find the Value of Old Tools
The value of old tools depends primarily on four factors: rarity, condition, age and appeal. As with any collectible, the better condition your old tools are in, the higher their value. Tools made by particular manufacturers are generally more collectible, such as Stanley tools which are highly sought after by collectors and tend to be highly valued. Every tool ever created was designed for a specific job. Knowing to which group they belong, such as woodworking tools, leather working tools or metalworking tools, can help you find the value of your old tools.
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Instructions
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Determine the maker of your old tools. Look for the manufacturer's name stamped, engraved or printed on a label somewhere on the tools, such as on a blade, handle or base. If some of your tools are missing the maker's mark, websites like Rose Antique Tools have free downloadable tool catalogs to help with identification, from tool manufacturers like Stanley, Sears Craftsman and American Axe and Tool.
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Find model and type numbers for identification and dating purposes. Here is where it can be really helpful to have original packaging or instruction manuals, as it can be difficult to locate the model and type numbers on the tools themselves, or they were never imprinted directly on to the tools. Model numbers distinguish a manufacturer's models within a particular category, such as drills or saws, and the type numbers distinguish different types of tools (design or feature changes) within the same category.
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Investigate online and print resources to help with identifying your old tools. Union Hill Antique Tools offers access on its website to a number of reference books, as well as pictures and prices for a few types of woodworking tools. You can peruse over 4.500 images in the "Dictionary of American Hand Tools: A Pictorial Synopsis," (a Schiffer book for collectors) by Alvin Sellens, which are organized by profession, from bookkeeper to wheelwright.
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Establish the rarity of any tools you have. The rarer the tool, the more valuable it will be, especially if it remains in its original packaging. Visit antiques shows and talk to antique tool dealers; they are usually very willing to share what they know and may be able to direct you to other valuable resources. Sam Allen.com offers links to an extensive listing of online resources.
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Evaluate the condition of your tools. Make a note of things that will affect the value like rust, broken or missing parts, any repairs or replacement parts, and wear on the finish (scratches, nicks or chips). Condition trumps rarity where value is concerned, as a common tool in like-new condition and still in its original packaging is worth far more than a rare tool in poor condition. The Fine Tool Journal Scale provides a standard classification system for old tools.
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Consult online and print price guides to estimate the value of your old tools. Ronald S. Barlow's "The Antique Tool Collector's Guide to Value" provides descriptions, illustrations and values for over 56 categories of old tools with an abundance of photos. EBay is also a helpful source of photos and values.
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