Need advise on a 70 series value

[BE Wild Willy]

I'm probably going to be turning over a couple of guns for my Aunt due to her health issues. One of them is a 70 Series Government Model that was a presentation to her father when he retired from the police department (Downey, CA) in the 1970s. It has bright nickel finish and engraved from the department to him. What would be a ballpark value (even though it has his name)? It has been fired but is in mint condition. BTW, my great uncle was one of Merrill's Marauders that fought in the Indo-China theatre WWII. He was one tough Ol' SOB.

Thanks...BEWW

[dsk]

Unfortunately the pistol itself isn't too valuable (maybe $700-$800), especially if it has somebody else's name on it. However I have an idea. Why not see if you can type up your great uncle's story and have it verified/signed by your aunt? While it won't increase the value of the pistol it *might* increase interest in the piece as something a true WW2 vet once owned.

It's just an idea, but it sure wouldn't hurt.

[CJS57]

I 2nd that. Write up a nice story of his exploits, with history of this gun an its serial number on the letter. Have it noterized and I think it will increase the value of the gun. Some collectors really like provenance.

[BE Wild Willy]

Thanks fellas, your input is greatly appreciated. I'm going to try to keep it in the family and needed a fair value.

[burntbulb]

Be, have you thought about keeping it as a family heirloom?
These type of things are special. ask about the family maybe someone will want it!

Just a thought!

[BE Wild Willy]

Be, have you thought about keeping it as a family heirloom?
These type of things are special. ask about the family maybe someone will want it!

Just a thought!

That's exactly what I'm trying to do, just want to be fair to my aunt and the family member I'd sell it too. I'd consider it myself, but will try to scrape up the funds for the '64 Python she has that was my uncle's. Gonna have to sell some guns to pull that off.

[Kid Sopris]

Police Guns by nature don't seem to be worth as much as Criminal guns..(ie. Jesse James or Bonney and Clyde). Having said that, there is a small following for these type of guns, especially if there is documented history that can be supported by photographs.

To you the gun is priceless, from an investor, he is thinking profit margin. Don't under estimate the historical significance of us Ol' Law Dawgs. Downey had it share of problems and Outlaw motorcycle Gangs during the 70's and later. ( I lived in Downey Once). Of course in all fairness Downey was reinforced by LA County Deputies from Lakewood Station, but that is a different story.

Keep the firearm, Support it's authenticity and history with written and photographic documentation.