What Makes Antique Sewing Machines Valuable?

by | Jun 25, 2023 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Do you have an older sewing machine and suspect it might be a valuable antique? Whether you just inherited your great-grandma’s Singer or have been using your favorite machine for decades, it’s good to know how much your sewing machine in St. Louis, MO is worth.

Values vary greatly, and they are affected by a variety of factors. Use the following checklist to help determine if your antique sewing machine in St. Louis, MO could fetch a good price:

  • Authenticity: Of course, one of the most important factors is whether the machine is considered an antique. In order to qualify for this status, the machine must be more than 100 years old. To find out when your machine was built, research the serial number online.
  • Condition: Is your sewing machine in good shape, or has it seen better days? Consider dings, dents, scratches, and decals, as well as mechanical functions. Is the machine attractive or rusted? Are all components present and operable? The better the condition, the higher the value will be.
  • Desirability: Is your sewing machine in St. Louis, MO a desirable model? Some machines are highly sought after among collectors. If your sewing machine has a unique color or other factors that make it more desirable, it holds more value.
  • Completeness: Is the sewing machine housed in its original cabinet? Do you have the original accessories and manual? If all of these original components are in place, these can greatly increase the value of your sewing machine in St. Louis, MO.
  • Location: Some machines are more popular in certain areas. Since sewing machines in St. Louis, MO are not typically easy to ship, the location of your machine is an important factor. To find out what your machine is worth in your region, contact local collectors, appraisers and antique shops. This will help you decide whether you would be better off selling your machine locally, or if it is worth shipping somewhere else to fetch a higher price.
  • History: Did your sewing machine in St. Louis, MO ever belong to a historical figure? Did someone who is important in sewing machine history ever use the machine? If so, the machine could have significant value. It might be of museum quality or secure a high price among collectors.
  • Variations: Keep in mind that determining the value of antique sewing machines in St. Louis, MO is not an exact science. The price that you can get for your machine could change over the years, and one collector may place its value much higher than another. Of course, any sentimental value the machine holds for you may also affect its value and may change over time.

Get Expert Input

Would you like an expert opinion on the value of your antique sewing machine in St. Louis, MO? Contact the team at Fenton Sew & Vac. We sell, service and repair a wide variety of sewing machines. Our team is familiar with almost all makes and models, so we can give you solid guidance about the value of your machine or where to take it to find out more. Stop by our shop or give us a call today!