Gunman wrote:
Does this apply to other things as well? Does a 1952 Cadillac that's been in a barn for 40 years, with perished tyres and covered in chicken droppings ,have a greater value than the same car that has been rebuilt and renovated ,with custom made non original parts.
Answer:
Yes. A unrestored vintage automobile that has never been molested, repainted or improved in fair condition is worth more than a restored car. The reason: there are less unmolested antiques than restored/reconditioned/altered/improved versions of any item.
Now does that apply to guns? I have absolutely no idea because I know more about cars than I do about guns. For ME personally, I love buying vintage shotguns, particularly from Atkins, Grant & Lang pedigree that have been restored. I get to own a beautiful item that is affordable and is built with far more charm and beauty than anything modern for 4x the price. That is my preference, albeit my guns aren't worth $15k because they are sleeved or refinished in some fashion. Yet I love them, I enjoy shooting them often and they are the perfect blend of classic and modern for my preferences.
My next gun will be a sleeved H&H or Purdey I buy out of the UK and have the wood and locks refinished and fitted to me. I'll shoot a masterpiece for the price most people pay for a nicely outfitted Guerini or Beretta. Would the purist collectors want this gun I hope to own? No. Will I have fun shooting it and will it have good value looking like brand new after restoration? YES!
