How is the best way to sell a Gem Winchester?

[Radarcarve]

I have a true gem of a rifle... an 1886 Winchester Deluxe. I am feeling it is time to sell it, but for a rifle of this quality, I am unsure how to proceed. The rifle is what I would conservatively rate as 90%, probably closer to 95. Caliber is 45-70, octagonal barrel with 98% original blue, bore is as new... 100%
As I said, it is a Deluxe, with the pistol grip stock, checkering, XX walnut. The finish is original with a modest number of the usual small scratches, but unworn anywhere. The tang is turned to 'plum', from contact with the hand. Blue receiver is easily 90%. Left side is 95%+. The blue book says it is about $50,000 in 80%.
Any advice on how to get a good price? I am not one to hold out and try to make a killing, but rather pass it on to a collector at a good value. Thanks, Lee Davis in New Mexico

 

[The Sarge]

I would list it on gunbroker.com .You control the sale and the method to purchase. Place a reserve on it.

 

[allaroundhunter]

If I had the money to offer you a fair price on it I would, but sadly, I don't. While gunbroker is good for letting you control the sale, I would take it to someone who knows what they are doing to get a good appraisal value first. That would give you an idea as to what to set the reserve at (if you end up using an online auction site).

 

[twofifty]

PM Red Cent

You'd probably find some real collectors if you got a hold of the Cowboy Action people. Thinking of SASS or CAS.

Guy on here called Red Cent would probably steer you to the right people.

 

[Dr.Rob]

I'd contact a real auction house and especially the Cody Museum in WY. You need a real appraisal on an item like that.

 

[Salmoneye]

I'd contact a real auction house and especially the Cody Museum in WY. You need a real apparaisal on an item like that.

/\/\THIS/\/\

 

[browningguy]

It certainly needs to go to one of the large auction houses to realize the best possible price, get it in front of the largest auidience of serious collectors possible.

 

[Chief 101]

As DrRob says, check with the Cody Museum for appraisal and let them steer you on the best way to dispose of a fine Winchester as such...by far the authorities on Winchesters of yesteryear...Chief aka Maxx Load

 

[JohnBT]

Collector's Firearms has a Deluxe in .38-56 that's been refinished for $11,950.

www.collectorsfirearms.com/admin/product_details.php?itemID=44671

 

[35Rem]

I would consider more than one appraisal. This will most likely cost some money and require a hands on inspection of the firearm.

Get some really good photos of the gun to email for an initial estimate.

Would a deluxe "letter"? Have a trackable history? Anyone famous/important associated with this gun? Provenance = $$

Grading will be crucial for an accurate value. There will be a big difference in 90 and 95%.