Should I clean "collectible" ammo

[Ronniefromalabama]

I am clearing some shelf space and have assembled quite a quantity of old, dirty, unfired ammo. Some of it, conceivably, has some collector value. Some of it is so tarnished and dirty that I am unable to identify caliber, manufacturer, ect.

I am not a collector and have no sentimental reason to hang on to the old ammo, so intend to sell it...if there is a buyer.

My question... For collectible rounds, will I lessen the value if I clean it up a bit.. something like wiping with a rag and shell polish? Or, do collectors prefer the accumulated patina, dirt, and debris that is stuck to the shell casings.

Next question.. where is the market? Do I need to separate this stuff and sell it with only similar ammo in a lot, or just clump it all together and hope for the best with a single buyer. How 'bout the buy/sell forum on this site?

Any other advice to this unknowledgable owner of some old unneeded ammo.

responses appreciated.

 

[LKB3rd]

I am not sure about the collectible ammo market, but in other markets a normal "patina" is far preferable to a "repaired" finish. Basically a reasonable cleaning is fine, but be conservative and careful. If a piece of dirt doesn't come off with little effort, then leave it alone. Leave tarnishing alone.
$.02 and free bump for someone who knows this market better to see the thread

 

[AethelstanAegen]

I hate to be that guy, but I'm kind of curious to see some pictures. We might be able to let you know what's worth something and what's not. Also, I would imagine that just how tarnished the rounds are will make a difference to what level of cleaning is needed.

 

[JTHunter]

Dust it off and leave it alone.

 

[jonnyc]

As a card-carrying ammo collector, no really, I am telling you do not clean and polish any ammo. I gave rounds that are going into my collection, or into my trade stock, a quick wipe with an oily rag. That's it.
Now, as to value.........some pics and descriptions are in order.

 

[Ronniefromalabama]

Thanks for the responses...

Pics and descriptions of my dirty ammo forthcoming. It may be a couple of days cuz I gotta go do a day at the VA clinic tomorrow.

 

[deadin]

If we are getting free information and value on ammo, what can anyone tell me about these?

 

[jonnyc]

If that was in .44-40, it would easily be a $300-500 box, but I'm not sure in .38-40, a less popular collecting caliber.