Hornby Collection

[GT89]

First off, apologies if this isn't in the right place, or even allowed.
Second off, this isn't me trying to list them here, I'm purely asking advise as to how to go about it.

I inherited a large and substantial Hornby Collection, I'd imagine somewhere in the realm of 200 items, from locos, to Pullman carriages and everything else in between. No track, scenery etc

They are all new, in boxes and unopened. I haven't really delved into what's there and have just left them in the loft but with the prospect of reroofing I really must do something with them.

Could anyone offer any advise as to wheres best or how's best to sell such a collection.?

Many thanks in advance.

[Eric Mc]

Is there a local model railway group near you?

[GT89]

Eric Mc said:

Is there a local model railway group near you?

I've no idea, that is an avenue I could look into. In all honesty I know nothing of model trains.

[loskie]

My late father's Hornby stuff is in Mother's loft. I was wondering about putting it into a specialist auction in Carlisle.

There's bound to be one near you too.

https://www.ewbankauctions.co.uk/News-Blog/ewbank-...

[Vasco]

Try model train (or Hornby) auctions.

[Milkyway]

Try that auction house on Scouting for toys... on Yesterday.
They would love a collection like that & attract the real enthusiasts.
( Obviously commission would have to be paid...)
They are toy / collectibles experts... & will go through the collection for you... may have a few gems in there.

NB: See below.... VECTIS
( Still an enjoyable series to watch though. some crazy prices obtained for the right items).

OR:
How about a toy fair...

Edited by Milkyway on Monday 27th June 20:51

[gruffgriff]

Briefly, best 'yield' will be by listing individually on that auction site. Lots of work to maximise, but I can vouch for the value of going the extra mile: Loads of pics and description of condition, a little personal story, sell to collectors. Minimal starting price, 10 day auction, let the world define the price. Some realised prices will disappoint but some will amaze. Visit the post office a lot.

Consigning to toy specialist auction houses e.g. Vectis will be simpler but they'll be selling to trade usually.

Hannants model shop always list quantities of "previously enjoyed" railway stuff but will be paying trade prices to sell on.

Good luck!

[GT89]

Thank you all for the input, food for thought.

I'd completely neglected that toy show, I watched it the other day and nearly fell over when I saw single match box cars fetching 10k

I think the first port of call is to get all the boxes down from the loft and catalogue what's there, then comparatively look on "that" auction site.

Atleast with a 5 month old I have plenty of spare time 🤣

[droopsnoot]

If you get one of the railway modelling magazines there are also a lot of model shops advertising to buy collections. As above, you may get a bit less but it also might be less trouble.

[Simpo Two]

The more people who see your adverts the higher the price you'll get. So I'd use eBay, where you can advertise to the world if you wish and is where people tend to look first. As said, take good photos, write nice descriptions, make it look desirable.