We are deaccessioning some items from the (now-closed) Hemmings Motor News museum in Bennington to make room for our project vehicles/raise funds for our '36 Chevy panel-truck project. I've been asked to handle disposal of our collection of antique outboard motors. This is a slight problem because while I love boats, I know very little about them--especially outboards. Anyone have a suggestion as to where I can research these (and a few others) to make sure I'm sending them off to good/informed owners? I am hoping to avoid using Facebook for collector groups as I haven't touched my dormant account in a few years now and am in no hurry to go back!
David, there was a time in my life that I had a sizeable (15-20 or so) collection of antique, tiny outboards. I used to buy them in running condition for no more than 10-15 bucks. BUT now , like everything else they seem to worth their weight in gold, especially the more obscure brands. I would say $100 +for the Chris Craft and probably 50+/- for the Merc ( only because of the condition and missing shrouding). I consider them to be "jewelry", good for decoration for theme restaurants, display and such... There is a chance of me being off on my estimates though. Good luck, Mitch
I agree with Mitch, his prices are pretty much on the money. I was a long time collector (I still have 5), and just keep them around for the occasional antique engine shows. They don’t bring that much. I have had a couple of “holy grail” outboards over the years but sold or traded them off long ago…
If by any chance you have an ELTO 4cyl I would certainly be a buyer. Still angry with myself that I let two go when I never thought I would get to my rail frame midget project. Good luck with your project and dispersal.
Thanks for the input fellas. I'll be trying to get a more detailed inventory of what we have soon, but I'm pretty busy between now and the middle of May. Now, I just have to figure out where the buyers are, since these look like they'd be a bear to ship anywhere. I've seen a few for sale here at the Spring Carlisle swap meet this week, but I haven't seen anyone carting one off as a purchase.
A local chapter we have here but some links good luck on the panel truck . We enjoyed the article on the panel truck in hemmings http://www.motorheadsil.com/links.html
David, the "FRESHWATER FISHING HALL OF FAME" in Hayward Wisconsin has a large, large display of outboards, that is where my inspiration came from. Someone involved with the place might have a good idea on values maybe. Mitch
The Jalopy Journal
