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In 1998 I purchased a Hofner cello from Howard Core, #HC 605.

 

Customer Question

In 1998 I purchased a Hofner cello from Howard Core, #HC 605. I paid wholesale $4100. Still in excellent condition, no dings or scratches, please tell me it's value today.

In 2009 I called Howard Core and was told the current 'retail' was over $12,000. Today I found the HC 605 priced at $12,250 at Mcpharlin guitars and violins website.

Thank you

 

Optional Information:
What have you tried so far?: Nothing more than my comments in the previous window.

Submitted: 229 days and 22 hours ago.
Category: Musical Instrument Appraisal
Value: $40
Status: CLOSED
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Expert:  Will replied 229 days and 10 hours ago.

Hi! My name is XXXXX XXXXX X am pleased to assist you. Based on a review of current recorded and documented sales of similar items in the past year and your description, the current market value is estimated to be from $10,500 to $12,000 on the private seller market, if in excellent repair.

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Regional demand can have an impact of values so be sure to check antique and collectible shops in your local area. This input will give you an idea of the trends in your area and then you can decide to sell locally or via one of the online markets.


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Potential sales venues would be local listings on Craigslist.org, eBay.com, Rubylane.com or etsy.com , consignment to a local collector shop or inclusion in a local estate sale as an add-on.

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I do hope this answers your question--if you would like any additional information or have additional questions on this topic, PLEASE don't hesitate to ask!

Customer replied 227 days and 9 hours ago.


Will, thank you for your advice. I can assume, for insurance purposes, this appraisal is informational only since you haven't seen the instrument. Because of your comment about 'regional demand' should I get a written appraisal in one specific area as apposed to another? I took it to a luthier/appraiser in Nashville TN and wasn't feeling good about his initial comments about 'pedigree', though he was not famaliar at all with the Hofner line, so I didn't leave it. I'm interested in insuring it for true value for protection, then in around one year, upgrading using this Hofner as captial. I need the best price. What's your advice?


Thanks, Richard.

Accepted Answer

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Expert:  Will replied 227 days and 6 hours ago.

That is correct...but under most homeowner fine art riders, you can declare any specific value you wish...and I suggest $15,000. Most policies have caps of $5,000 per loss unless you declare the value up front ...if not, you do have to possess a market evaluation on letterhead on hand to process a claim with success...so one or the other. I note regional because in some areas, you will find better markets outside of where you physically are. Those familiar with the pieces will not need a lot of paperwork, I assure you...the quality will speak for itself. Best, Will

Expert TypeCertified Appraiser
Category: Musical Instrument Appraisal
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 850
Answered: 8/29/2012

Experience: Active professional dealer since 1981

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