|
Buying Model Horses Selling Model Horses Buying & Selling Resources
Model Horse Values: The value of a model horse depends on several factors, including condition, rarity, and popularity of that mold and/or model. You can get an approximate value for your models from online auctions, for sale listings, and books like Felicia Browell's Breyer Animal Collector's Guide : Identification and Values, 5th Edition. These values are just approximations, and are based on what collectors were paying for that model in average condition at the time the guide was created. You will get far less if you sell to a dealer or if your model is in less than average condition.
Condition: The prices you will see listed in price guides are for models in fair to good condition, with some ear tip, tail, and hoof rubs and/or factory problems such as overspray or blurred markings. If your model has a lot of scratches, a seam split or any type of break it will have a much lower value. A very rare model (see below) may still fetch a high price in poor condition, but common models in "played with" condition simply don't have much value, even ones twenty or more years old.
Rarity: If a model was available for many years (the bay Running Mare, the palomino Family Arabians, and the black Midnight Sun, for example) its value will be much less than that of a model that was issued only for a year or two. Decorator, Woodgrain, Commemorative, and Limited Edition models, along with Just About Horses' Connoisseur Models are all examples of models with small runs that retain their value well over time.
Extras: If a model came with a hang tag, certificate of authenticity, ribbon, blanket, or other item, it is generally worth more if those accessories are included. Some collectors prize having the original box as well, especially for models released in the 1980s and earlier, and will pay a premium price for models in unopened boxes. Others prefer their models out of the box so that they can see any hidden factory flaws, so it's up to you whether to keep your boxes or keep your models in their boxes.
Buying Model Horses
You may already have a dealer nearby (check your tack and toy stores along with the retail chains listed in Special Run Distributors) for new and recently discontinued Breyer model horses. Classic and Stablemate scale models are commonly found in the retail chains, with Traditionals more common in the western wear and tack stores. Listed below is a variety of Internet sources selling Breyer model horses. Even allowing for the cost of shipping, you may find that you'll get a better deal through the Internet, though you won't be able to see the model in person before you buy it.
If you're just coming back into the hobby after a long time away it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of models available; there are thousands of discontinued models for sale, and more than a hundred more are released each year. Unless you're independently wealthy or just won the lottery you'll need to decide what you'll focus on, such as one or a handful of favorite molds, breeds, scale (Traditional, Classic, etc.) or colors. You should also try to be patient, even when you find a model for sale that you simply must have. Unless your model is extremely rare there are bound to be others out there just like it, so take time to decide if its condition and price are right for you before you commit to a purchase. Remember, breathe! Don't let someone talk you into buying something just because it's a "great deal." It's only a great deal if it makes you happy to own it!
Selling Model Horses
Many people, when they find out that the horses they collected as a child are considered valuable today, decide to sell their model horses. There are many way to sell them, but first go back and read my section on model horse values. The biggest problem most childhood collectors have is that their models were *gasp* played with, and now have many scratches, chips, and even breaks. Dirt and scuff marks may be removable--see my Model Horse How-To page. Everything that remains after cleaning affects value, and you need to have a realistic idea of what your collection is worth before you begin. Collectors are very particular, and you'll need to be able to accurately describe your model's flaws--"good condition for its age" simply won't cut it if you want to get a decent price.
Once you know what condition your models are in you'll need to identify what you have. While it's possible to just take photos of your collection and sell the lot on a site like eBay, you'll get a much better price if you can accurately describe what you have and what condition each model is in, and do even better if you sell them individually. If you don't know what you have, use this site to figure it out. With extremely few exceptions every Breyer model is described on these pages, and the site is set up to help even a complete novice identify what she/he has. If you are absolutely stuck you can email me for help, but please be sure you've tried your best first--at the very least you should be able to identify what mold it is. I won't identify your entire collection for you (and don't provide estimated values at all), so please don't ask!
As soon as you know what you have and what condition they're in you're ready to advertise them for sale. The most popular way to do that is by online auction. Be as accurate as you can regarding the condition of the model, and be sure to provide photos, and of both sides of the model if possible. The photo(s) must be clear enough to show the condition of the model and large enough to make out details. Use as low a starting bid as you can and be prepared to answer questions during the auction period. You can also use sales lists or other methods to sell your models, and I've listed some of these resources below.
Once your model sells be ready to pack it well and ship it out as soon as you have received payment. People know each other within the hobby and the best way to sell models in the future is to develop a reputation as an honest, prompt seller. Good luck!
Buying and
Selling ResourcesAuthorized Dealers: For new and recently discontinued models, authorized dealers can help you out. A few dealers also buy and sell older ("vintage") model horses. Some of the retail chain stores that I've found Breyers in include tack shops, Marshalls, Target, Petsmart, and Toys R Us. Models are also sold through the JC Penney catalog.
E-mail Lists/Forums: like a newsletter that anyone can contribute to, e-mail lists offer instant communication between people who have a shared interest. Here's just a small sample of the model horse lists that accept for sale/wanted posts. Please note: some other model horse lists forbid such ads, so check their rules carefully before posting there.
On-Line Auctions/Classified Ads: one of the most popular methods of buying and selling today.
Antique Stores/Collectible Shops/Garage Sales: probably the most fun way to find what you need. Careful hunting can turn up some amazing bargains, but be careful of what you pay, especially in antique shops; in my experience many models there are grossly overpriced. Having a collector's guide with you when you shop will help determine what's a fair price. Live Model Horse Shows: these competitions almost always have "for sale" tables. This is probably the best way to buy when you want to be absolutely sure of a model's condition. BreyerFest is a terrific example. |
-
Your purchases support this site, and Amazon's free shipping on orders over $25 makes
for a very good deal.Good Luck!
