Hello everyone,

I was recently contacted by a local realtor in a dilemma. A local gentleman unable to return home after a medical issue must give up his sizeable collection of railroadiana and home to pay for his continuing medical bills/living expenses. The railroadiana must go in order to list the home. Other antiques are also amongst the railroad items. He has given first choice at this point to a friend and some local museums. Our museum lists have been submitted. We are hoping to help him get the best price for his collection to maximize what has been a lifelong passion for him. Among the items are at least two dozen whistles of varying sizes and types, a few horns, builders plates, photos, rule books, switch locks/keys, at least two dozen or more lanterns, glass globes, many with stamped or frosted matching globes/vents. So, to my question, does anyone know of any auction houses in West Virginia, or nearby areas of Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky or Virginia/North Carolina, that specialize in railroad items or similar antiques and may be willing able to help get a good and fair market price for this man's collections? I know that whistles/horns, lanterns, oil cans, builders plates, numberboards, etc. can vary greatly in price, but most of this stuff seems to be clean and in good condition and this has been an investment for him. I also know that with the location being in rural central West Virginia, it is not likely to draw people with the interest or means to pay fair market price locally, myself included. Any and all reasonable suggestions are appreciated to consider options on this. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Kent

Maurer is a good place to start: http://www.maurerail.com

Rob