Elvis memorabilia... need help

[Heldi]

A close family member has a collection of Elvis stuff. Records etc. She won't be needing any of it where she is going and wants to sell it. She's asked me if I can find out how to do it. I haven't got a clue. I haven't seen all of the collection but I'm told there are original records and that sort of thing. She's been collecting since the 50/60s I guess.  How on earth do you get this stuff valued? She was thinking about bunging it on ebay but I thought that might not be the best idea since we don't know what any of it is worth..if it is indeed worth anything. Is there a website that deals with music type collectables,you know like a version of one of those books which lists estimated values of antiques?  I guess I need to find out what to look for in her collection that might be of value.

Any help or pointers will be most appreciated as this is a very difficult thing to do at a very difficult time for us.

[Heldi]

[cambourne7]

contact your local bbc radio station, most have someone on once a week that help you with valuations.

[Robert_Brenchley]

eBay is a flea market; you won't get premium prices unless you've got something that two or more people want enough to get into a bidding war. I've seen crazy things happen, but mostly prices are fairly low, sometimes very low. A lot depends on your marketing skills; a lot of sellers have no chance of good prices due to poor pics, bad descriptions, etc. Good feedback helps as well; people can be wary of buying from someone with none.

[djbrenton]

For example prices, http://www.leninimports.com/eppg.html

Do make sure the same issue release apply as it makes a heck of a difference ( first release etc)

There are record and collectible fairs in most areas periodically.

[Georgie]

Heldi, the folks on this forum might know:

http://www.blackcatbone.34sp.com/phpBB2/index.php

Failing that, my OH has a mate who is a music promoter and who is a mad Elvis fan.  He might be interested or have some contacts.  I'll ask my OH when he gets in.

G x 

[Hyacinth]

Have you tried Googling Elvis Fan Clubs H?

[legendaryone]

Buy a copy of "Record Collector" magazine from your newsagent, scan the back pages for Elvis records for sale (there will be loads) to get a rough idea.

[valmarg]

Hi Heldi,

We listen to the Ed Doolan programme on Radio WM (weekdays 10am to 1pm).  He has guest experts on, and from time to time he as an 'old records' expert called Danny Reddington.  I have listened to him several times, and he seems very knowledgable.  If you rang the Ed Doolan show on 08456 009956, they would be able to give you his 'phone number.  A quick call to him would give you some idea of what you have got.

He always reckons that any of the Elvis early stuff on the HMV label (obviously in good condition)  is worth 'quite a lot'!!

He also advises, if you have something that he considers 'valuable'to take it to auction.  He seems a very genuine dealer.

valmarg

[Heldi]

Thankyou so much for your help everyone. Please keep all the pointers coming. I'm taking note of them all.

[Georgie]

Okay,  I've asked the OH.  He reckons his mate might be able to help but unfortunately he can't lay his hands on his email details at the moment.  He will get them tomorrow from work and I'll PM you.  OH also says that there is an official 'fanzine' too which might be worth looking into.

G x

[rosebud]

Heldi, go to your local library and look at the collectors books mine of information in them .  Mary.

[Yellow Petals]

eBay is a flea market; you won't get premium prices unless you've got something that two or more people want enough to get into a bidding war. .

Not strictly true.  I've sold some out of print / deleted records, CDs & books on ebay and made myself a mint (and I mean a mint!) It's all down to research (as has been pointed out) and using common sense with the reserve or won't take less than option.  That way your item will never sell for less than what it's worth.

Collectors are tending to look more and more at ebay these days.

But, having said that, with a collection so big, if I were your friend, I would have it valued / estimated and try to sell it elsewhere unless she is happy to sell things individually.

Sam

[Heldi]

Thanks folks.

[Robert_Brenchley]

[ I've sold some out of print / deleted records, CDs & books on ebay and made myself a mint (and I mean a mint!) It's all down to research (as has been pointed out) and using common sense with the reserve or won't take less than option.  That way your item will never sell for less than what it's worth.
Sam

That's not strictly true either; even the best ancient coin dealers sell on eBay for far less than the coin would sell for elsewhere. They do it either for a quick turnover, or to advertise their main business. But other types of merchandise may get better prices.

[greyhound]

Re ebay, I sold a modern ornament for an amazing price, as that seems to be where the collectors are looking.  The same type of thing goes for no money in the fine arts auctions.

Getting the listing right is very important - make sure you list in the right category; more than one category might pay off.   And get all the spelling right!  I've picked up a couple of bargains where the items haven't shown up in the obvious place.

Definitely get some specialist advice first, though.